How to Pack Books for Moving

Books are heavy, delicate, and often deeply sentimental. Packing them wrong can lead to torn covers, bent pages, snapped spines—or worse, a box bursting open mid-move. Whether you're shifting apartments or relocating interstate, how you pack your books makes all the difference.

Also, if you're moving a large personal library, antique collection, or simply don't want the hassle—it’s worth considering professional movers who know exactly how to handle books safely and efficiently.

In this guide, we tell you in detail so can safely move your books.

Why Packing Books Is Harder Than It Looks

Books might seem easy to pack—just stack them in a box, right? Not quite. Here's what makes them challenging:

Weight adds up fast: A small box of hardcovers can weigh as much as 20–30kg.

Moisture and heat can ruin paper, covers, and glue bindings.

Improper stacking can cause bending, creasing, and spine damage.

Cramming too many books into a box can cause it to burst or make lifting dangerously heavy.

That’s why it’s important to be strategic.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Pack Books for Moving

Step 1: Sort and Declutter

Take a moment to list out your book collection before you begin packing—it helps you stay organised and track everything. Ask yourself:

• Do I still read this?
• Is this worth the weight and space?
• Can I donate or sell it?

Consider donating to local libraries, schools, or second-hand bookstores. Decluttering helps reduce moving costs and ensures you're only taking what truly matters.

Step 2: Choose the Right Boxes

Small, sturdy boxes are your best friend. Never overestimate how much weight books can add up to.

Ideal box types:

• Small moving cartons
• Double-walled boxes
• Plastic storage crates (especially for long distances or moisture-prone areas)

You can buy these from:

• Bunnings (in-store or online)
• Officeworks
• Hire A Box (Australia-wide delivery)
• Storage King or Kent Removals

Step 3: Gather Packing Supplies

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Strong packing tape
• Packing paper or old newspapers
• Bubble wrap (for rare or antique books)
• Zip-lock bags (optional, for moisture protection)
• Permanent markers for labeling

Skip plastic bags for book storage—they tend to hold in moisture, which can lead to mould and mildew damage.

Step 4: Line Your Boxes

Before loading any books, line the bottom of each box with a cushioning layer. Use:

• Crumpled packing paper
• Towels or bubble wrap

This layer protects the books from any knocks and dampness from the base.

Step 5: Group Books by Size and Type

Books of different sizes stack poorly together. Sort your collection into:

• Large coffee table books
• Standard hardcovers
• Paperbacks
• Magazines or comics

This helps maintain uniform stacking, reducing the chance of bending or shifting during transit.

Step 6: Pack Books Correctly

There are three main ways to pack books. The method depends on the book type and how long they’ll be stored or transported.

Option 1: Flat Stack (Best for Heavy Hardcovers)

Lay books horizontally when packing—this keeps their spines straight and distributes weight more safely.

Option 2: Upright (Like on a Bookshelf)

Place books upright, spines against the box wall. Fill gaps with paper so they don’t fall or bend.

Option 3: Spine Down

You can lay books with the spines down and pages up, but never spine-up—it strains the binding.

Avoid packing books with pages facing down. It can warp them permanently.

Step 7: Protect Valuable or Fragile Books

Handle valuable or sentimental books—like first editions or personal journals—with extra care.

• Wrap in acid-free paper or bubble wrap
• Place in waterproof plastic sleeves or bags
• Use cardboard dividers to create separation in the box

If you’re moving during monsoon or humid weather, moisture protection is non-negotiable.

Step 8: Fill Gaps and Cushion the Top

Once your books are stacked, fill all remaining spaces with:

• Rolled towels
• Packing paper
• Foam sheets

This prevents movement inside the box. Don’t forget to cushion the top of the box too, before sealing.

Step 9: Seal and Label Clearly

Use strong packing tape to seal the box in an H-pattern—down the middle and both edges. Then clearly label:

• “Books”
• “Heavy”
• Destination room (e.g., “Home Office” or “Living Room”)

Use a red marker or “Fragile” tape if the box has antique or valuable books.

Step 10: Load Strategically

When it’s time to load the moving truck:

• Always load book-filled boxes at the base of your moving stack to avoid crushing anything below.
• Don’t pile more than three or four book boxes on top of each other to avoid excess pressure and possible damage.
• Ensure they’re secured with straps if you’re moving them in a vehicle.

Why It’s Better to Hire Professional Movers for Your Books

Packing and moving books might seem straightforward—until you try lifting five boxes in a row or realise your rare editions need special care.

Here’s why professionals can save your time, back, and book collection:

1. They Know the Right Way to Pack

Experienced movers use book-specific packing techniques—whether it’s flat stacking, upright loading, or moisture protection. They also know how to avoid weight imbalance that leads to damage.

2. They Bring the Right Equipment

No flimsy boxes or duct-tape patch jobs here. Professional movers come equipped with:

• Book cartons
• Dolly trolleys
• Padded wraps
• Waterproof sheeting for rainy-day moves

Professional movers arrange boxes to make sure heavy ones—like those filled with books—don’t squash lighter, fragile items.

3. Your Back Will Thank You

Books get heavy—fast. Lifting multiple book boxes increases the risk of back strain, especially on stairs or long carry distances. Movers are trained to handle this with safety gear and lifting techniques.

4. They’re Insured

When you move things yourself, damage is your problem. But professional removalists often offer transit insurance, which can cover your books against loss, damage, or water exposure—especially helpful for valuable or rare collections.

5. Time-Saving and Stress-Free

Packing and moving books is time-consuming. Letting movers handle it frees you up to focus on other parts of the move—like settling into your new space or setting up your bookshelf exactly the way you like it.

When Should You Definitely Hire a Pro?

• You're moving interstate or long-distance
• You own a large collection or a home library
• You have rare, antique, or signed books
• You're on a tight moving timeline

The Book-Packing Mistakes That Cost You Time, Money—and Broken Spines

Even seasoned movers mess up when it comes to books. Avoid these errors:

Mistake 1: Using Large Boxes

Packing too many books into a big box leads to disaster. Boxes collapse, movers struggle, and your back won’t thank you. Stick to small, strong boxes—even if it means using more of them.

Mistake 2: No Moisture Protection

Books hate humidity. One rainy moving day, and you could end up with warped pages and mouldy covers. Always line your boxes and wrap valuable books with care.

Mistake 3: Ignoring Box Weight

Even if the box isn’t full, check the weight. If it’s over 15–20 kg, it’s risky. Books are denser than you think. Go for balance, not volume.

Mistake 4: Mixing Books with Random Items

Avoid tossing in chargers, mugs, or clothes just to fill the gaps. Books should travel with books. Mixing items can cause dents, bending, or worse—broken spines.

Mistake 5: Skipping the Label

Label every box. Not just "Books"—but also where they go. This makes unpacking faster and prevents fragile books from getting mishandled.

Smart Hacks for Book Lovers on the Move

Create a “Comfort Book” Box

Pack your favourites, journals, or books you’ll need in the first week separately. Mark it clearly and keep it close—you’ll thank yourself when the unpacking chaos begins.

Use Rolling Suitcases

Short on boxes? Suitcases with wheels are gold. They handle weight better and save your arms during the move.

Keep Inventory with Photos or Apps

Use apps like Sortly or Google Keep to log your collection. Take photos of spines if you don’t want to write them all down. Great for insurance or personal tracking.

Moving Books to Storage? Read This

If your books are going into storage instead of straight to your new home, here’s what you should do:

• Use plastic storage tubs with tight lids
• Include silica gel packets to absorb moisture
• Keep off the floor (use wooden pallets or shelving)
• Store in climate-controlled units to prevent mould, mildew, and warping

Books hate humidity. Long-term storage must be dry, dark, and well-ventilated.

Final Thoughts

Books are more than just paper and ink—they’re stories, memories, and lifelong companions. With the right prep and packing, you can ensure they arrive in perfect shape, no matter how far your move is.

From choosing the right box size to mastering the art of stacking and sealing, every step matters. So don’t leave it to guesswork—use this guide to pack your books like a pro.

And remember, the key isn’t to pack everything—it’s to pack wisely.