Packing books for a move is more challenging than it looks. One book feels light, but 30 or 40 books in a single box? That’s a different story. Here’s how to pack your book collection safely and efficiently.

What You'll Need

  • Small, sturdy cardboard boxes
  • Packing tape
  • Marker for labeling
  • Packing paper
  • Bubble wrap (for valuable books)

Use Small Boxes Only

This is the most important rule: Always use small boxes for books, never medium or large boxes.

A small box of books is manageable. A large box of books can exceed 50 pounds and become impossible to lift safely. Small boxes also reduce the risk of the bottom breaking through from excess weight.

Box recommendations:

  • Small moving boxes (1.5 cubic feet)
  • Book boxes
  • New boxes rather than used ones (they’re sturdier)

Reinforce Your Boxes Properly

Before packing a single book, reinforce the bottom of each box:

  1. Tape the bottom seam horizontally
  2. Add a vertical strip of tape across the center
  3. Extend tape at least halfway up the sides for extra support

Don’t skimp on tape. A weak box bottom means damaged books scattered across your driveway.

Line Boxes with Packing Paper

Place a few sheets of packing paper at the bottom of each box for cushioning. This protects books from bumps during transport.

Sort Books Before Packing

Group your books before you start packing:

  • Hardcover books together
  • Paperback books together
  • Same-sized books together

Packing books of similar size together maximizes space and prevents shifting during the move.

How to Pack Hardcover Books

Best method: Pack hardcover books standing upright, just like they sit on a bookshelf. Place the spine against the side of the box.

Alternative method: Lay hardcover books flat and stack them if they’re all the same size.

Important tips:

  • Don’t pack books too tightly—you’ll damage them when unpacking
  • Use scrunched packing paper as padding to keep books upright
  • For valuable books, wrap individually in packing paper
  • Place small pieces of cardboard between valuable books to protect spines

How to Pack Paperback Books

Best method: Pack paperback books flat and stacked.

Stacking order: Place heavier books on the bottom, lighter books on top.

Alternative method: Stand books upright with spines facing down and pages facing up. This prevents pages from bending during the move.

Never do this: Don’t pack paperbacks with the page edges facing down. This distorts the shape and bends pages.

Fill All Gaps

Empty space means books will shift and get damaged. Fill gaps with:

  • Scrunched packing paper
  • Towels
  • Clothes
  • Linens

Filling gaps prevents books from bowing, shifting, and sustaining damage during transport.

Label Boxes Clearly

Mark each box with:

  • “BOOKS” in large letters
  • “HEAVY” warning
  • Destination room
  • Box number (if cataloging your collection)

This helps movers handle boxes appropriately and makes unpacking easier.

Mix and Match Methods

You’ll likely have books of all shapes and sizes. Don’t be afraid to use different packing methods in the same box—flat stacking for some, upright for others. The goal is efficient packing that protects your books.

When to Get Professional Help

Have an extensive library? Packing hundreds of books is exhausting and time-consuming. Let our experienced packing team handle your book collection so you can focus on other moving tasks. We know exactly how to protect your books and pack them efficiently.

Final Tips:

  • Start packing books early—you won’t need most of them before moving day
  • Consider donating books you won’t read again
  • Keep a few favorites accessible for your first night
  • Never overfill boxes—if it’s too heavy to lift comfortably, remove books