Six steps to pack one box
- Build the base. Fold the flaps, tape the bottom seam, then add a second strip across the seam for strength.
- Line the bottom. Add a layer of crushed paper or a folded towel so the heaviest items have cushioning.
- Pack heavy first. Put books, tools and canned goods in the bottom third, and use a small box if the contents are dense.
- Add medium, then light. Place medium items in the middle and clothing, linens and soft goods on top.
- Fill every gap. Push paper or towels into the corners until nothing moves when you tilt the box slightly.
- Seal and label. Close the flaps, tape across the seam and both edges, then write the room and a short list on two sides and the top.
Good packing is mostly about weight and gaps. Heavy items belong in small boxes, and light items fill the large ones. Any space left inside is where things shift and break, so the last step before closing is always to fill it.
Choose the right size
Small boxes carry heavy items such as books and tools; medium boxes carry kitchen and household goods; large boxes are for light, bulky things like pillows. A large box packed with heavy items becomes too heavy to lift and tends to burst at the bottom.
O'Brien's gives 10 free heavy-duty boxes, yours to keep, with a free in-home estimate. Further cartons and supplies are sold at the Sparks office; see moving boxes and supplies.
Why paper and towels beat air
Crushed paper moves less than bubbles of air and costs very little. Towels, linens and clothing also work as padding, which saves boxes and keeps soft items out of the closet pile. The aim is simple: when you shake the box gently, you should feel it as one block.
Labelling that helps on arrival
Write the destination room in large letters on the side, not just the top, because boxes stack. Add a one-line summary such as kitchen, glasses. Mark fragile boxes on every side. Read more in how to label moving boxes.
When to leave it to the crew
Some items are quicker and safer in the hands of a packing crew: china, mirrors, artwork and electronics. O'Brien's offers full packing, partial packing, and box packing only. See professional packing and how to pack for a move.