A house move can be expensive, stressful and time-consuming and is something that few people look forward to. As the old saying goes, failing to prepare is preparing to fail and, as such, it’s important to make sure that you have everything you need ahead of your moving day – including boxes. In this article, we’re thinking inside and outside of the box and sharing our guide to choosing the best options for your move. From the ones to store your books in, to those containing whole bedframes for moving.

Thinking outside (and inside) of the box for your move

When it comes to your move, a box is just a box, right ? Wrong. Boxes come in many shapes, sizes and quality grades and making the wrong choice can spell disaster for your move. In this section, we’re taking you through everything you need to know about choosing boxes for your house move. 

Rent or buy the removal boxes?

These days, cardboard boxes for moving are readily available from a number of online and bricks and mortar outlets and if you shop around, you can usually find these at a pretty good price. 

While buying your boxes is an option (particularly if you feel that you will be reusing them), it’s not the only choice available. Lots of removal companies will rent boxes to you for your move and, similarly, you may find the same service from local storage facilities. If you won’t be reusing your boxes or you don’t have the room to store them, rental can be a really good solution. 

How many boxes do I need ?

This really depends on how much stuff you will be moving. Generally speaking, you won’t need boxes for large items such as furniture, however, you will need them for other items such as clothing, books, ornaments, tableware and more. 

While the number of boxes required depends on a number of factors, the following is a good rule of thumb: 

– For a studio flat or small apartment you will probably only need around 5 medium sized boxes and a couple of small ones

– For a one bedroom house you will usually need 15 medium sized boxes and 10 large boxes

– For a two bedroom house, you should think in terms of 25 medium sized boxes and 20 large boxes

Making the grade

Not all cardboard boxes are created equal so choosing the right quality is important. 

Cardboard comes in grades which are known as flutes and the strength of the box depends on the quality and grade of cardboard used. when buying moving boxes you should try to obtain items which are constructed from B or BC flute cardboard as these are a good quality grade for protecting your precious belongings. 

While a lower grade box may be suitable for light items such as clothing or bedding you will normally need a higher grade for heavier items such as crockery. 

Also, with your heavier and / or delicate items, it’s worth investing in boxes which are either double or triple walled for extra protection. 

Boxing clever when moving house

When it comes to moving house, your boxes will have their work cut out for them and choosing cheap or low grade items may result in all of your precious belongings landing on the pavement before they even make it to the truck. Because of this, investing in good quality boxes for your move should be one of your top priorities for a safe and smooth transition to your new home.