The Ultimate Guide to Moving Boxes
Types, Pros and Cons
Moving can be an exciting yet stressful time, and one of the key elements of a smooth move is choosing the right moving boxes. Not all boxes are created equal, and selecting the right type can significantly impact the safety of your belongings, the efficiency of your packing, and the overall ease of your move. For that reason moving boxes come in all shape and sizes. Because we have performed many thousands of moves, Holland Movers has the experience to explain the pros and cons of all different types of moving boxes. In this guide, we will explain the various types of moving boxes, their pros and cons, and tips on selecting the best ones for your needs.
Table of contents
Choosing the Right Moving Box Matters
Packing your household belongings for a move is tedious and takes a lot of effort. For that reason choosing the right moving box is more than just finding something to put your stuff in. It’s about protecting your belongings, saving time during packing and unpacking, and ensuring everything arrives at your new home in one piece. Here are a few of the most important reasons why picking the correct box matters:
✔️ Protect Your Valuables
The right box provides the necessary support and protection for fragile items, reducing the risk of breakage during transport.
✔️ Cost-effectiveness
Using the correct box size and type helps optimize space, reducing the number of boxes you need, which can save on moving costs.
✔️ Ease of Packing
Specialized boxes can simplify packing by providing the perfect fit for specific items, such as hanging clothes or dishes.
✔️ Keeping Order
Great moving boxes have a dedicated place to write down what the moving box contains, or have a standardized spot to stick a label on the box.
Which Moving Boxes Do You Require?
Selecting the right moving box starts with assessing what you need to pack. Here are some tips to help you make a selection.
Match Boxes to Items
While it is possible to use wardrobe boxes for all your clothes, dish pack boxes for fragile kitchen items, and standard boxes for general household goods. It is usually just as well to pack most of your household belongings in standard boxes in our experience. Also in this instance, clear labeling of said boxes is the name of the game. Make sure to match your items in a way that makes sense, like combining all or most of your bathroom items in one box. Should you unexpectedly need one of these items they will not be scattered across different boxes and areas.
Decide Whether You Need Specialty Boxes
Most of your household items can be packed into standard boxes. However you likely also have some fragile or oddly shaped items that require a specific kind of box. We advise using specialty boxes for the following items:
- Mirrors
- TV
- Dividers for drinking glasses
- Clothes on hangers, like suits or jackets
These items are usually pretty expensive and delicate, for that reason it can be smart to acquire some specialty boxes, even though they are a bit more expensive.
The Production Quality of your Moving Boxes
Some people choose to pack their household belongings themselves, even if they hire Holland Movers for the actual moving day. As experienced movers our colleagues have encountered moving boxes of all possible production quality levels. Their stories and experiences make it clear that the choices made in selecting where people buy the moving boxes are very important. Bad quality moving boxes increase the risk of damage to your household belongings, frustrate the moving process and their single use production quality makes them bad for the environment. For that reason we strongly advise against buying boxes from home improvement stores like Gamma and Praxis or stores like Action or HEMA. We advise against this because there is a very big risk of household belongings just falling through the bottom of these moving boxes when they are lifted. Firstly, this creates a big risk of damage to your belongings, and secondly it makes for a frustrating experience for the movers.
We strongly recommend buying or renting commercial grade moving boxes, like the ones we use ourselves in our full-service relocations with Holland Movers, where our packers and movers come by a few days in advance of the moving day to personally pack all your household items.
Staple Moving Supplies We Use During Our Moves
Moving Blankets
A moving blanket is a thick, padded blanket that is used to protect furniture and other items during a move to prevent damage. Especially usefull against sliding damage while moving items to, in or from the moving truck.
Shrink Wrap
This is plastic film that we use to secure and protect items together or separately, during a move, also to prevent damage.
Packing tape
Is often clear or brown and can be easily torn or dispensed with a tape dispenser, making packing quick and efficient We use this to temporarily seal or bind items together.
Bubble Wrap
A plastic material with air-filled bubbles used for cushioning and protecting fragile items by wrapping them in bubble wrap during your move. We also use bubble wrap to fill the rest of half-packed moving boxes to prevent items from moving around.
Packing Paper
Recycled paper in thin big sheets that can be used instead of bubble wrap, it is usually cheaper and easier to use for small items than Bubble wrap.
Mattress Cover
Protective covers that close around your mattress in order to shield this mattress from dust or damage during your move or while in our temporary storage.
Label Roll
A label roll is a roll of adhesive labels that we use to label or mark moving boxes or items. Often we write down what it contains (e.g. Kitchen-supplies) and the destination in your new house (in this example that would be the kitchen).
In our experience these supplies are indispensable during a relocation. Did you know that all of these supplies are for sale in our own supply shop? And that you will enjoy top of the line quality when buying these supplies? As they are the same moving supplies that we use ourselves when performing a full-service relocation.
Other Supplies That Will be Very Useful
Aside from the most important items listed above, here are a few other items than could be very useful to have on hand while packing your household belongings.
Box Cutter
Very useful if you need to re-open a box after you sealed it, should you need an item that you accidentally already packed. After cutting the tape with your box opener you can easily close it again.
Zipper storage bags
To be used when you encounter miscellaneous items while packing, or to collect screws and other hardware when disassembling your furniture.
Dusters
To remove dust from items like books and trinkets while packing, this can be a good opportunity to ensure all your belongings arrive in tip top condition in your new place.
Where to Get Moving Boxes
There are various places to find moving boxes, and your choice depends on whether you prefer to buy, rent, or find them for free:
• Buy Moving Boxes:
Available in many different places. Like at home improvement stores, moving companies, and online retailers. Ideal if you need specific sizes or types. As we mentioned before, high production quality is very important, while moving boxes from many home improvement stores have low production quality. We would advise you to buy boxes with high production quality, like the boxes we sell in our supply shop.
• Rent Moving Boxes:
If the production quality is of high enough grade, renting moving boxes can be a very good idea. It saves quite a lot of money and is also better for the environment since renting boxes allows for multiple uses for moving box. High quality boxes can be used up to 5 times.
• Free Moving Boxes:
Many local businesses, grocery stores, and online communities (like Facebook Marketplace) offer free boxes. Be cautious of using bad quality, damaged or dirty boxes, as this can provide great risk to your household belongings. Also beware odd-sized boxes as this makes stacking and the actual moving a lot more difficult.
Choosing the right moving boxes can make a big difference in the success of your move. By understanding the types of boxes available and their pros and cons, you can ensure that your belongings are well-protected and that your move is as smooth as possible. Remember to assess your needs, select the right boxes for your items, and pack carefully. With the right preparation, you’ll be well on your way to a stress-free move!
Sustainable Use of Moving Boxes
When buying moving boxes pay attention to whether the boxes you’re wanting to buy have an FSC quality mark. All the Holland Movers have the FSC quality mark, however not all brands do. The FSC quality mark guarantees that the cardboard has been renewably sourced. You can also consider storing the boxes you purchased in order to save them for your next move, or donate them to a friend or someone in need, making sure that your moving boxes are used multiple times. Renting boxes is also a great way to make sure you minimize your carbon footprint around the use of moving boxes. Using packing paper to fill empty space in your boxes instead of bubble wrap is also a good idea in this regard.
How Many Moving Boxes Do You Need?
Estimating the number of moving boxes you’ll need can make the packing process smoother and more efficient. Start by taking inventory of your belongings and identifying any items that require special boxes, such as TVs, mirrors, or fragile items. Most of your household goods, like clothes, kitchenware, and books, can fit into standard boxes. As a general rule, each person typically requires between 10 to 20 boxes, depending on the size of their home and how much they own. For a family of four, this usually translates to needing 40 to 80 boxes.
Packing a moving box
- Unfold the box you are packing, if your box is from another brand than Holland Movers you may have to tape the bottom side of the box closed, make sure you use enough tape for this to make sure the bottom is strong enough.
- Group items that belong in the same room of your house by similar size and weight.
- Use smaller boxes for heavier items, and bigger boxes for bulkier items.
- Wrap heavier items first individually using packing paper or bubble wrap and place them at the bottom of the box.
- Reduce empty space, use scrunched up packing paper or newspapers to eliminate empty space in the box so your items can’t move around after closing the box.
- Make sure to always put enough crumpled packing paper or newspaper on top of your supplies before closing the box, this protects your items and secondly also protects the integrity of the box when stacking.
- Tape the top of the box closed.
- Write on the box, possibly also using labels, what the box contains. make sure to write the contents of the box both on top and on the side of the box.
How to Protect Fragile Items During a Move
When moving fragile items such as glassware, electronics, or delicate décor, taking extra care is crucial to avoid breakage. Start by wrapping each item individually using protective materials like bubble wrap, packing paper, or foam. Place a layer of padding at the bottom of each box—crumpled paper or soft blankets work well. When packing dishes or glass, stand them vertically to reduce pressure and layer padding between each piece. For electronics, use their original boxes if possible, adding extra protection with foam inserts or bubble wrap. Fill any gaps in the box with cushioning materials to prevent movement during transport. Clearly label these boxes as “Fragile” and “This Side Up” to ensure proper handling. Using high-quality packing materials and careful labeling minimizes the risk of damage and ensures your fragile items arrive at your new home intact.
Properly Labeling Boxes for a Smooth Move
Properly labeling your moving boxes is key to an organized and efficient move. It may seem tedious while labeling everything, but trust us, labeling everything properly will save you a lot of time and frustration when you are in the unpacking stage of your move. In order to label correctly, start by labeling each box with a detailed description of its contents, rather than generic terms like “Miscellaneous.” Be specific “Kitchen: Pots, Pans, and Utensils” is far more helpful for unpacking than just “Kitchen.” Use bold, clear writing or even a label printer, and place them on multiple sides of the box for easy identification no matter how the box is stacked. Consider color-coding labels by room, using different colors for the kitchen, bedroom, living room, etc. This makes it easier for our movers to quickly place boxes in the correct rooms. For fragile items, use bright labels that say “Fragile” and include arrows or “This Side Up” indicators for items that need to stay upright. Proper labeling not only helps during unloading but also saves you time and stress when unpacking in your new home.
How to Create a Moving Box Inventory
Creating a moving box inventory is one of the most effective ways to stay organized and reduce the stress of unpacking. To start, as you pack each box, write down the contents on a master list and assign the box a number. Label the box clearly with this number and the room where it should be unpacked (e.g., “Box 12: Kitchen – Pots, Pans, and Utensils”). For extra efficiency, you can also use color-coded labels to differentiate rooms, helping movers quickly place boxes in the right location upon arrival.
In your inventory list, note the priority of each box to streamline your unpacking process. For example, mark essential boxes like kitchenware or toiletries as high priority so they can be unpacked first. This system ensures that nothing is misplaced and makes it easy to find specific items without opening multiple boxes. You’ll know exactly which box contains important items like bedding for the first night or electronics that need to be set up right away. Also if you are looking for a specific item, instead of having to check what is written down on every box, all you have to do is take a look at the master list.
By creating a moving box inventory, you’ll save time, prevent frustration, and ensure an organized transition to your new home. Plus, it minimizes the risk of items getting lost in the shuffle.
Packing Your Kitchen For Moving
Packing the kitchen is often one of the most difficult tasks during a move due to the wide range of items, from small utensils to bulky appliances, and various food products. Since most kitchen supplies will be needed in the new home, it’s important to approach packing in a systematic way. Start by packing items you don’t use regularly, such as specialty gadgets, baking dishes, and rarely used appliances. This allows you to continue using essential items until closer to moving day.
As moving day approaches, pack everyday items in phases, keeping only the bare essentials available for cooking and meal prep. Use sturdy boxes for heavy items like pots and pans, and wrap fragile items, such as glassware and dishes, in bubble wrap or packing paper. Label boxes carefully so you can prioritize unpacking kitchen necessities first. By taking this step-by-step approach, you’ll stay organized and reduce the stress of packing such a complex room. Also consider wrapping your knives in newspapers/packing paper and taping them so they don’t scratch other kitchen supplies. Use larger boxes for lightweight and oddly shaped items such as dish racks and baking tins. Also big pans can be packed in bigger boxes. Use smaller boxes for heavier items such as small appliances, kitchen utensils, pantry items and silverware. Cardboard box dividers can be used to pack most glasses.
Packing an Essentials Box for Moving Day
When preparing for a move, packing an essentials box is a smart way to ensure that the most important items are easily accessible when you arrive at your new home. This box should include the basic necessities you’ll need for the first 24 to 48 hours, allowing you to settle in without frantically searching through all your boxes. Start by packing personal items like toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, deodorant), a change of clothes, and any medication you or your family members may need. Include important documents, such as passports, IDs, and any paperwork related to the move, and be sure to keep your phone chargers, laptops, and other essential electronics in this box.
For comfort, pack a set of bed linens, a towel, and anything you’ll need for a good night’s sleep. Kitchen essentials are also key—pack a few plates, cups, utensils, and snacks, as well as coffee or tea supplies to help you get through the first morning in your new home. If you have children or pets, don’t forget to include their necessities, like favorite toys, food, or other comforting items to make the transition smoother.
Clearly label this box as “Essentials” and transport it yourself rather than putting it in the moving truck. This ensures you have everything you need on hand when you arrive, making the first hours in your new home more organized and less stressful.
Our Supply Shop
Moving boxes and other moving supplies are well worth the investment. Making sure you have good quality moving boxes and moving supplies goes a long way in protecting your household belongings. In our shop you can buy or rent our top of the line moving boxes and buy the moving supplies that we ourselves also use in the moving process. So you can rest assured to be provided with quality materials that will make packing a lot easier.
- Moving blankets
- Shrink wrap
- Duct tape or painters tape
- Bubbble wrap
- Mattress cover
- Label rolls
Packing Service by Holland Movers:
Did you know it is possible to outsource the packing proces? Holland Movers offers various services to ensure that you have a pleasant move. One of these services is our packing service as part of our full-service relocation service. If you decide to plan your relocation with Holland Movers it is possible to add this service to your move in order to have a care-free moving experience.
Our packers and movers are trained to pack your belongings efficiently and safely using only our top of the bill packing materials. This way our packing service minimizes the risk of damage to your belongings. Our team can assist you in packing your entire house or just certain rooms. Our teams always keeps your schedule and possible deadlines in mind and we plan the move around your needs.
Our packing team comes by in advance of your planned relocation, and in one day will pack all your household belongings safely in order to prepare them for transport. If you are interested in using our packing service for your move please select the option in our interactive request form. With a full-service move by Holland Movers you can enjoy the meticulous planning, hassle-free service by our excellent movers and rest easy knowing that all will be taken care of.
Our removal services
Private relocation
At Holland Movers, we understand that every move is unique. That’s why we offer personalized moving solutions in Amsterdam, catered to meet the specific needs and requirements of individuals and families. Our team takes the time to carefully plan and execute each move, ensuring a stress-free experience from start to finish.
International relocation
Our expert guidance for international relocation provides support and guidance for those moving abroad. With our extensive network of international partners, we can coordinate your international move with precision, ensuring a successful and stress-free relocation.
Handyman service
Our range of handyman services includes minor repairs and installations, supporting the preparation of your property for a move. With our skilled and experienced staff, we ensure that your property is in top condition for your move.
Moving lift
Our efficient moving equipment includes a range of lifts specifically designed for moving heavy or large items such as furniture or appliances. With our experienced staff and equipment, we make moving these items a breeze.
Emergency relocations
Our capable team is available for fast emergency relocations for those needing to move quickly due to unforeseen circumstances. We ensure a quick and professional relocation in urgent situations, taking care of everything for you.
Business relocation
Our streamlined business relocation service is designed to support companies in efficiently relocating their operations. We work closely with our clients to develop a customized plan, taking care of everything from planning to execution, ensuring a smooth transition to their new location.
Storage solutions
We offer a range of secure storage solutions to accommodate your storage needs during a move or for temporary storage requirements. Our climate-controlled facilities are under 24/7 surveillance, ensuring that your belongings are safe and secure.
Packing service
Our expert packing and wrapping services ensure that your belongings are safely and securely transported to their new location. With our high-quality materials and experienced staff, we protect your items throughout the moving process.
Senior Relocation
Our compassionate senior relocation support provides assistance to seniors who may require additional support during the moving process. With our caring approach, we ensure a stress-free and comfortable move for our elderly clients.
House clearance
Our hassle-free property clearance service involves the removal and disposal of unwanted items from your property. Whether it’s before or after a move, we ensure a quick and easy process for our clients, taking care of everything for you.
Quality. Flexible. Safe.
Your wishes are always central at Holland Movers. We always take the time to carefully and extensively discuss your move and your wishes in this regard. This way you know exactly what you can expect from us and we are well aware of your expectations. This way you will not have to deal with unpleasant surprises afterwards.
About us
We have been active as a moving company since 2009, and in our many years of experience we have helped thousands of customers move.
Headquarters:
Amsterdam branch:
H.J.E. Wenckebachweg 159, 1096 AM Amsterdam
Read our moving blog for tips, inspiration, and our moving boxes guide.
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