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8 Tips for Packing and Protecting Books When Moving

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Packing books for a home move is back-breaking, and hiring movers is sometimes bank-breaking. For long-distance moves, movers charge by weight, box, or square feet in a truck, and books are heavy and can take a toll. Sort through books before moving, decide what books have value, which can be donated, and which books you want to pay to move.

Here's how to pack and protect books for the move.

  1. Secure the Bottom of the Box

    Once you've decided which books you're moving, use the right box. You want to ensure the box supports the weight and is free from water damage. If packing with used boxes, ensure the inside is clean and dry. Gather your packing supplies, tape the bottom, and check to make sure it's secure.

    A moving box with books next to it
    The Spruce / Ana-Maria Stanciu
  2. Packing Hardcover Books

    Pack hardcover editions by placing them in the box standing upright, spine against the box's side, just like you were placing it on a shelf. Be sure they're not packed too tightly so they aren't damaged when you remove them.

    If the hardcover editions are of moderate value, wrap each in brown paper before placing them in the box.

    Hardcover books packed standing upright in box

    The Spruce / Ana Maria Stanciu

  3. Line the Box for Fragile First Editions

    Anything of value (sentimental or otherwise), like old photo albums or first editions, require stiff cardboard between each to keep the spines straight and prevent movement.

    Each book should be protected with paper and placed in a well-padded box. Bubble wrap or foam chips can line the box before you pack each book. ​To save money and have a greener move, use materials around the house, such as towels and linens, to keep your books safe.

    person placing bubble wrapped mementos into lined moving box

    The Spruce / Michele Lee

  4. Go With Spine Down as Another Method

    Hardcover editions, as well as paperbacks, can also be packed flat and stacked. Both book types may be packed spine first, with the paper edges facing up. To prevent damage, do not pack books with the paper edges facing down and spines up—this will cause books to warp and pages to bend.

    Placing books into a moving box spine down

    years / Getty Images

  5. Pack Larger Books Flat

    You can also pack books flat, especially larger books like coffee table books and bigger paperbacks.

    Woman stacking larger books in moving box

    Manu Vega / Getty Images

  6. Use a Mix of Packing Methods to Fill the Box

    Books can also be packed in one box using all three methods. Just make sure you don't pack books at odd angles.

    Also, pack books close, just make sure they're not too tight as this will cause books to bend.

    Paperback books packed in flat stacks inside box

    The Spruce / Ana Maria Stanciu

  7. Fill Spaces With Packing Paper or Bubble Wrap

    Use bubble wrap or wadded-up paper to fill any remaining spaces. Books can shift easily during the move, causing damage.

    person adding extra packing paper to the top of the box

    The Spruce / Michele Lee 

  8. Tape the Box and Check the Weight

    Tape the box closed and label it with its contents and room location. Do not stack the boxes in the moving truck unless you can properly secure them. Again, books are heavy, and if the boxes should topple, they can cause a lot of damage to furniture or other items that aren't as well protected.

    If you need to store books longer, ensure the storage facility is dry and cool. And if your books are of high value, you may want to use acid-free paper instead of brown paper. Acid-free paper won't deteriorate or turn yellow over time.

    Box labeled 'books' after securing with tape

    The Spruce / Ana Maria Stanciu

FAQ
  • What is the best way to pack books?

    The rule of thumb with packing books is to put large, heavier books on the bottom of the box. Never pack the spine up since books can warp that way. Keep the spines sideways (like in a bookcase) or put the book upside down, with the spines down.

  • What types of boxes are used for moving books?

    The best boxes for packing books are smaller, usually 1.5 cubic feet (12x12x16 inches). Ensure they are strong and reinforced with tape on the bottoms.

  • How do you pack books without using boxes?

    One of the best tips for packing books is to use rolling luggage for your books. Clothes are lighter than books, so put the clothes in boxes or bags; transport your books easily by rolling them onto the moving truck.