Choosing the Right Moving Boxes: Types and Sizes Explained

Moving box sizes... Have you ever wondered why there are so many? And which one should you use for what? Let me be your guide on this journey of understanding moving box sizes. Together, we'll navigate the overwhelming world of boxes and become experts in no time!

11 min read

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Key takeaways

• Small boxes (Book boxes): Perfect for packing heavier, denser items like books, tools, canned goods, CDs/DVDs, and kitchen appliances. Ideal for small yet weighty things in need of a sturdy home.
• Medium moving boxes (Standard cartons): Perfect for household items! Pack kitchenware, small appliances, clothing, children's toys, linen, and towels. These are the go-to boxes everyone uses!
• Large moving boxes (Tea chest): These are perfect for larger, lightweight items that don't fit in other boxes but take up a lot of space. Examples include bedding, blankets, clothing, lampshades, decorative pillows, and big plastic or soft toys.
• Specialised moving boxes: Use special boxes to pack and protect your valuables and sentimental items like TVs, picture frames, mirrors, wines, crockery, fragile items, and even your clothes from the wardrobe!
• Weight distribution: Remember, it's best to spread weight across multiple large boxes. Avoid overpacking them!

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Moving house? Time to pick the perfect boxes! Trust me, it can feel overwhelming with all the options out there. Who knew there were so many types? But no worries, we've got your back! Our blog is here to make your life easier. We'll guide you through different box sizes and when to use specialized ones. Whether you're planning a big move or just doing some spring cleaning, now's the perfect time to figure out how different box sizes fit into your plans. Believe me, it's gonna be a breeze!

Understanding moving box sizes

Alright, let's talk about packing for a moment. It might seem like a simple task - just throw your stuff into a box, seal it, and hope for the best. But here's the thing: it's not that straightforward! You need to understand those moving box sizes, know when to use each one. That's how you can get ready for your move without any worries of things breaking. Trust me, box sizes matter in the world of moving. Each box has its own personality, its own unique set of skills. Intrigued? Let's dive right in!

What are the standard moving box sizes?

Small boxes

Small box dimension

Width: 403mm
Length: 301mm
Height: 330 mm
Volume: 40 Litres

You know, these little moving boxes, or as some folks like to call them, book boxes, are like the tiniest of the standard-size moving boxes. But hey, don't be fooled by their size! They're just perfect for all those heavier, denser items you've got in your inventory. And guess what? They're super practical and won't break the bank like those bigger cardboard boxes. 

Why small moving boxes are so practical?

The small moving box is seriously practical, you know? It's compact and all, but don't let its size fool you - these boxes are super sturdy, so no need to stress about them breaking. They can handle up to 27 kilograms! Plus, they're a breeze to handle, carry, and stack in the moving truck. They fit perfectly in most cars, optimize space in the truck, and won't drive the movers crazy going up and down stairs. How cool is that?

You know what's the best part? No more packing disasters! I mean, come on, we've all been there when the boxes end up too heavy or, worse, the bottom gives out! But with these book boxes, say goodbye to all that! You won't have to strain yourself or risk injury. These boxes are seriously strong, compact, and they keep your stuff secure. So you can move without any worries about damage. Trust me, it's a game-changer!

When it comes to delicate items, opt for small boxes. 

When it comes to packing delicate items for a move, opt for small moving boxes! They're compact and provide excellent protection for your fragile belongings.

Here's a helpful tip: Pack delicate objects separately or with similar items and wrap them snugly in packing paper. This prevents potential damage from other objects and provides cushioning. Even if the box gets jostled during the move, the chances of anything breaking are significantly reduced.

Remember, choose small moving boxes and pack smart for a stress-free move!

Small boxes are ideal for small but heavy items

Small moving boxes are incredibly useful for packing dense items like books, tools, canned goods, CDs/DVDs, kitchen appliances, and more. With double corrugated walls, these boxes handle the weight effortlessly. Trust me, using smaller boxes spreads the weight, making them easier and safer to handle. No injuries here!

What to pack in small moving boxes?

When packing, the general rule is to prioritize small yet heavy items like books, CDs, DVDs, and video games. Tools, hardware, and kitchen essentials like canned goods, glass jars, toasters, and coffee machines can also fit in these boxes. Book boxes work well for small electronics and their accessories too. Cool, right?

Medium boxes

Medium box dimension

Width: 406mm
Length: 298mm
Height: 431mm

When you're in need of some extra storage space, but don't want the hassle of lugging around a heavy box, look no further than medium moving boxes. These versatile cartons, also known as 'standard cartons,' give you an extra 12 litres of capacity compared to their smaller counterparts. They're perfect for packing up all sorts of household items. Not too big, not too small - they strike that perfect balance. And even when they're fully packed, you can easily carry them. These boxes are designed to stack neatly, so you can make the most of your moving space. Rest assured, these boxes have got you covered!

Why is the medium moving box so versatile?

You know what's awesome about medium moving boxes? They're like the perfect Goldilocks choice - not too big, not too small! They hit that sweet spot where you can fit all your stuff, from appliances to clothing, without it being a hassle to stack or take up too much space in the moving truck. And guess what? They're not only cheaper than those huge boxes, but they're also super easy to find! No more running around like a headless chicken looking for specialized or gigantic boxes. Medium boxes are the movers' top pick for a reason!

These strong double corrugated cardboard boxes are just the right size and offer the strength you need. The best part? You can totally reuse them for your next move or for storage. Talk about versatility and reducing waste all in one go! So, go ahead, choose medium moving boxes and make your move a breeze!

Medium moving boxes ideal for kitchenware

When it comes to packing and moving your kitchenware, medium boxes are the way to go! They're just the right size and strength, making it easy to fit pots, pans, and baking sheets. Plus, they'll keep everything safe and sound, no worries!

And hey, if you've got small appliances like toasters, blenders, or coffee makers, those medium-sized boxes are perfect for them too. When it comes to those heavier kitchen items, using medium boxes is a smart choice. They're stackable and easy to move around with a trolley, so you can avoid any potential injuries from lifting on your own. Safety first, right?

So go ahead, grab those medium boxes, and pack your kitchenware with ease. You'll be all set for a smooth move!

Right box size for clothes and linen

When you have limited clothes, medium boxes are perfect for packing clothing and linen. They can fit all your folded clothes, bedsheets, towels, and other linens, giving you ample space without being too heavy. For delicate items, consider using port-a-robes or garment bags for quick packing and added protection. Happy packing, friend!

What to pack in medium-moving boxes?

Medium boxes are perfect for items that can't fit in small cartons or things you want to keep together. They're also ideal for packing medium-sized items or large electronics. They can handle it all - kitchenware, small appliances, clothes, toys, linens, towels, and office supplies.

Quick tip - don't overpack! Spread the weight across multiple boxes for easier lifting. And remember to label them properly for effortless unpacking later. Future you will thank you!

Large boxes

Large box dimension

Width: 431mm
Length: 406mm
Height: 596mm

You know those big moving boxes? The ones sometimes called 'Tea chest boxes'? Let me tell you, they're awesome! They can fit about two and a half small-sized boxes or two medium-sized ones. If you've got bulky stuff to pack, these boxes are definitely the way to go! Loads of space for all your larger household items. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

Why do you need large moving boxes?

Big moving boxes are a game-changer for packing! They easily fit larger, bulkier items that won't squeeze into smaller boxes. Using fewer, bigger boxes makes moving easier, cheaper, and quicker. Plus, they provide protection for fragile items. Trust us, these large moving boxes are a necessity for packing delicate belongings.

Large moving boxes are ideal for bulkier but lightweight items

When you need to pack larger items that aren't too heavy, big boxes are really useful! They have more room than small or medium-sized boxes. Just remember not to overload them with heavy stuff, as you might struggle to lift them. Think of things like pillows, blankets, and comforters - those bulky yet lightweight items that can be squished to fit. Don't forget about soft toys and big cushions too! Make your packing a breeze!

What should I pack in large moving boxes?

When packing for your move, remember to take all the essentials: bedding, blankets, clothes, lampshades, decorative pillows, stuffed animals, decorations, large canvas paintings, lightweight kitchen appliances, and fragile items. Pro tip: use big boxes for bulky, lightweight items. Seal and label boxes properly to keep everything intact.

Specialised moving boxes

Let the fun begin! Specialized moving boxes are a game-changer, making packing for a move a breeze and your life much easier. With perfect box sizes for each purpose, you can protect your items like never before. Whether it's clothing, furniture, electronics, or fragile items, packing becomes a piece of cake with these boxes!

What are sizes of specialised moving boxes?

Common specialised moving box dimensions

Some common types of specialised moving boxes include:

Small cube boxes

Dimensions

Width: 300mm
Length: 300mm
Height: 300mm

Small cubes are your trusty sidekicks, always ready to hold your must-haves. Perfect for short-distance moves, keeping everything separate for easy unpacking in your new home. They're like a little helper, making life easier and more organized on any adventure!

Large cube boxes

Dimensions

Width: 500mm
Length: 500mm
Height: 500mm

Can you believe how much extra space these jumbo cartons, or as I like to call them, large cube boxes, have compared to those regular tea chest moving boxes? They're perfect for packing bigger but lighter stuff like linen, quilts, pillows, and cushions. Sometimes you just need that little bit of extra room without adding too much weight to the box.

Archive boxes

Dimensions

Width: 320mm
Length: 420mm
Height: 260mm

Archive boxes are like the superheroes of packing and storing important documents, you know? They've got this handy attached lid and a label for quick identification. And let's not forget their sturdy construction that keeps your valuable documents safe during the move and in storage. It's like having your very own fortress for your important paperwork.

Crockery box and inserts

Dimensions

Width: 600mm
Length: 300mm
Height: 306mm

Crockery boxes, also known as 'dishpacks', are superheroes for your delicate china, plates, bowls, and fragile kitchenware during a move. They have special inserts or cell dividers that create cozy compartments for each piece, keeping them safe and snug. No more worries about your precious dishes knocking against each other and getting damaged!

Flat TV Box

Dimensions

Width: 200mm
Length: 1430mm
Height: 750mm

No worries if you need to move your flat-screen TV! Our flat TV boxes are specially designed to keep your precious TV safe and secure during the journey. They're made with heavy-duty, double-walled cardboard for that extra strength and protection. Our standard flat TV box is just perfect for most flat-screen TVs up to 60 inches. And hey, if you've got a bigger TV, no problem! Just give us a shout and we'll hook you up with a custom size for a snug fit. Happy moving! 📺📦

Linen flat-pack boxes

Dimensions

Width: 482mm
Length: 950mm
Height: 280mm

Linen flat-pack boxes are like the superheroes of packing! They're perfect for neatly organizing your linen, towels, blankets, and other light, bulky items. Say goodbye to the hassle of scattered linens during your move - just pack them all in one portable box. It's as easy as pie! 

Picture/mirror boxes

Dimensions

Width: 80mm
Length: 1045mm
Height: 790mm

If you've got those massive picture frames or mirrors, you totally need some picture or mirror boxes to keep them safe during your move. These boxes are like superheroes for your artwork, mirrors, and all those sentimental framed pictures. Oh, and don't forget to add those corner protectors for some extra love and care during transportation!

Port-a-robe boxes

Dimensions

Width: 490mm
Length: 597mm
Height: 1100mm

Introducing the port-a-robe! It's the go-to moving box for modern movers like us. Imagine having your own portable wardrobe that simplifies moving clothes. No more hassle of removing clothes from hangers and folding them! Just transfer your clothes straight from the closet to the box, keeping them neatly hung on the built-in rail.

With the port-a-robe, packing and unpacking is a breeze, saving us time and keeping our clothes organized. And guess what? It's tall enough to accommodate fancy dresses and sharp suits we love to wear.

But wait, there's more! The port-a-robe's sturdy structure allows for stacking, making it a smart choice for moving trucks or storage units. Even temporary storage during renovations becomes easy. The possibilities are endless!

So, fellow movers, say goodbye to old ways and embrace the convenience of the port-a-robe.

Slider boxes

Dimensions

Width: 115mm
Length: 800-1550mm
Height: 9250mm

Slider boxes are seriously awesome! You know what's really neat about them? They're made up of two pieces that slide into each other, so you can adjust the length to fit whatever you're packing. How cool is that? It's just perfect for those big, delicate, and fragile items you need to transport.

Wine boxes

Dimensions

Width: 327mm
Length: 490mm
Height: 167mm

When it comes to packing and moving your beloved wine bottles, wine boxes are an absolute game-changer! Seriously, these boxes have these amazing twin inserts that cradle each bottle perfectly, ensuring they stay safe and sound. Say goodbye to the worry of bottles clinking together, thanks to those handy cardboard dividers. And let's not forget about the strong construction of the box, giving your precious wine that extra protection during transit. So sit back, relax, and know that your wine is in the safest of hands! Cheers! 🍷

Packing strategies and tips

When packing, choose the right box sizes. Consider box strength - single-walled or double-walled? Also, think about weight distribution. Ensure you can lift the boxes easily or with help. Maximize space without overloading. Stack boxes for extra protection. Seal them properly - extra tape helps! Label each box clearly for easy identification. Use an inventory list and box numbering system for simplicity. Avoid stacking heavy boxes on top of lighter ones. Mark fragile items with labels or tape. Identify the correct side up. Happy packing!

Final thoughts

Alright, let's get down to business! When it comes to moving boxes, you've got plenty of options - different types, sizes, you name it. Let me break it down for ya. We've got three standard moving boxes that can handle most household items like champs. For delicate stuff, call in the specialists - crockery boxes with handy inserts and wine boxes for fragile items. And what about big, flat items? Don't worry, we've got boxes to keep your TVs and mirrors safe. Oh, and the genius port-a-robe boxes? They make moving clothes with hangers a piece of cake! Picking the perfect box for each item ensures a smooth move. And here's a bonus tip - reusing and recycling those boxes? It's a win-win! You'll save money and help the environment. So, let's get movin' and make it a happy one.