Are you an avid reader? You might be surprised by how heavy your at-home library actually is when the time comes to move home. Here at Huddersfield Removals, we’ve handled moves of all sizes. We know that books can be deceptively difficult to transport! That’s why we’ve compiled these top tips for anyone struggling to transport their book collection in and around the Huddersfield area.
1. Only take what you read!
It makes no sense to transport lots of books only to throw some out at the other side. Instead, perform your clear-out now. Thin your book collection and donate any unwanted items to a charity shop. This will make your job much easier! Alternatively, you might choose to hold a book swap with friends and exchange your old books for exciting new ones.
2. Look for strong boxes, not big ones.
You might feel tempted to try and cram all of your books in one huge box. This isn’t a good idea! It’s highly unlikely that a single box can handle all that weight. It’s even less likely that you’ll be able to safely lift it. Instead, look for many small but strong boxes. It’s better to perform multiple journeys than to risk back pain and book damage attempting just one.
3. Line your boxes.
If you have books with lots of pretty covers, you’ll want to protect them during the transportation process. A layer of tissue paper between the books and the boxes will ensure your covers arrive in the right condition. It might seem excessive, but book lovers know how important it is to treat them with tender loving care.
4. Double seal the bottom of your boxes.
Use top-quality tape when building your boxes and comprehensively seal them. You don’t want the bottom to burst when you lift them! A little extra care at this stage can prevent disaster later. This isn’t a process that should be rushed through carelessly!
5. Pack with moderation.
Each box should have enough books that they’re kept snugly in position. However, they shouldn’t be crammed in. A bulging box is far more likely to break, so err on the side of caution and use another box if required. That’s how we do it here at Huddersfield Removals.
6. Fill and secure boxes.
If your boxes have any spaces, use paper to fill them in. This will stop your books from sliding around during the journey and potentially enduring damage. Tape boxes closed so they’re easier to transport. The heaviest books should be stacked at the bottom, of course!
7. Label and position.
Mark your box with BOOKS so you know exactly what’s inside and you can position the box accordingly in the truck. You don’t want to expose this box to any moist areas, for example. If it starts to rain, this box needs to be packed as a priority! Labeling boxes is also helpful at the other side when it’s time to unpack.