How Do I Know What Box Size I Need for a Residential Move?

How Do I Know What Box Size I Need for a Residential Move?

When we were toddlers, we tried to fit square pegs into round holes. It didn’t work out so well. The same thing happens when you try to fit items in moving boxes that the latter isn’t designed to accommodate. Boxes break, tears are shed and there’s a whole lot of frustration.

That’s where moving help steps in.

The best residential moving companies have a variety of different moving boxes for you to choose from, but how do you know which size is right for you? From small and medium to large and specialty, we cover the different types of moving boxes and what you typically store in each.

What to Pack in Small Boxes

If the box is about two cubic feet or less, it’s considered a small box. These boxes are good for heavier and smaller items. (A good rule of thumb when it comes to box size is: the bigger the box, the lighter the items that go in it.) Here are some typical items that are good to pack in small boxes:

  • Books
  • Utensils
  • Smaller toys
  • Electronics
  • Cords
  • Tools
  • Fragile items
  • Paperweights
  • Kitchen gadgets
  • Small keepsakes

What to Pack in Medium Boxes

When it comes to medium boxes, you want to make sure you don’t pack them so they’re too heavy. Medium boxes are usually four-or-five cubic feet. Here are some of the typical items that are good to pack in medium boxes:

  • Pots and pans
  • Appliances
  • Clothing
  • Shoes
  • Medium-sized toys
  • Other oddly-shaped items

What to Pack in Large Boxes

If the box is 4.5 cubic feet or more, it’s considered a large box. You want larger, lighter items in these boxes. Here are some of the typical items that are good to pack in large boxes:

  • Towels
  • Blankets
  • Sheets
  • Winter Clothing
  • Collapsible tools and appliances
  • Pillows
  • Larger toys

What to Pack in Specialty Boxes

In addition to the standard small, medium and large boxes, there are specialty boxes designed for specific items. Dish set moving boxes, for example, are designed to keep dishes and breakables intact. Wardrobe moving boxes are great for clothing you don’t want to get wrinkled or torn. Here are a few other types of specialty boxes:

  • Extra-large packing boxes
  • Glass transport boxes
  • Picture and mirror boxes
  • Mattress boxes
  • Flat-screen TV boxes

If you need help with buying the right moving boxes, packing or moving in general, give the IMS Relocation team a call today at (972) 484-2112 for a free quote.