Moving house is often considered one of the most stressful experiences you will undertake, and this is easy to understand, as there’s a seemingly endless list of things to do. Among these activities, properly packing and transporting your possessions is the most important. Despite this, packing everything effectively and efficiently is often overlooked.
By leaving decisions like packing boxes to the last minute, people often settle for whatever they can get. This can put a major dent in your moving budget. This blog will help you:
- Explore different types of packing boxes
- Choose the right packing boxes for your budget
- Compare packing boxes by price
- Examine the average cost of box deliveries, and;
- Determine which other packing supplies you need
Choosing the right packing boxes for your needs
Proper, secure packaging is the secret to ensuring your belongings are safely transported to your new home. However, many people simply buy boxes from grocery stores. While this can work for some things, they are often flimsy and will jostle about in the moving truck, shattering your breakable belongs. By purchasing the correct moving boxes for your needs, you can rest assured are well protected during transportation.
But how do you know which boxes are right for you? To help you make the right selection, here are three key characteristics of quality moving boxes:
#1 The right size – Selecting the correct size is essential. For instance, if the box is too large, you will ultimately pay extra transportation costs. While a small box could potentially damage your items.
The box’s size should match the item’s dimensions, with some extra room for protective packaging (i.e. bubble wrap, etc.). Ensure the box has up to 7.5cm of space for protective wrapping.
#2 Strong, quality material – Ensure you select a box of strong structural integrity. It should be able to be transported with no (or minimal) damage. Ensure fragile items are properly protected with bubble wrap or foam. This is a far less expensive option than having a damaged item repaired or replaced.
Selecting the right moving box material is also vital. There are two main options:
Corrugated – This flexible, sturdy material is ideal for heavy or breakable goods.
Paperboard – This lightweight material is easily printable and perfect for packing hardware, cosmetics and other non-breakable items.
#3 The right quantity – The exact number of boxes you’ll need depends on how much you need to transport. For one or two rooms, for instance, you will require between 20-25 boxes, of varying sizes. Whereas, for a larger home with seven or eight rooms, you’ll need between 90-100 boxes, of differing sizes.
How many moving boxes will I need?
At JD Movers, we understand that the task of moving house can be extremely overwhelming, and deciding exactly how many boxes you will need to safely transport your possessions is difficult. This is why we offer several options for moving boxes. You can either:
Choose a package – Just tell us how many bedrooms you have, and we’ll provide the appropriate package, complete with all the packing supplies and boxes you will need.
Purchase boxes individually – If you don’t need as many, we also offer packing boxes for individual sale.
Are you still unsure how many packing boxes you may need? Don’t worry, because our knowledgeable team is ready to help. Simply tell us about your situation (i.e. number of rooms and possessions that need packing), and we’ll find the most efficient, cost-effective solution for you.
The average price of moving boxes
The cost of moving boxes largely depends on these key factors: their size, the quality of the materials, the number of boxes required and whether packing materials are included. As a general guide, here is a breakdown of moving box costs, based on: the size of your home and which packing materials are included.
Studio apartments (15 boxes)
- 5 x large tea chest 100-litre moving box
- 5 x medium 61-litre moving box
- 5 x small 40-litre moving box
- 1 x packing tape
- 1 x roll of butcher paper
- Cost: $60 – $80
1 – 2-bedroom unit or house (30 boxes)
- 15 – 20 x small boxes
- 10 x large boxes
- 2 x rolls of packing tape (more available, if required)
- 2 x rolls of butcher paper
- Cost: $90 – $110
3 – 4-bedroom house (50 boxes)
- 20 x large boxes
- 20 x medium boxes
- 6 x small boxes
- 4 x rolls of packing tape
- 4 x rolls of butcher paper
- Cost: $125 – $200
For a comprehensive quote on your next move visit: https://www.jdmovers.com.au/pricing/ today.
Different moving box types
Like most things in life, you get what you pay for. In other words, the type of box you choose will indicate its quality, and ultimately, price. There are many different types of moving boxes, to suit your every need. So, regardless of the size or weight of your belongings, you’re sure to find boxes to suit your requirements and budget.
To help you decide which boxes are right for you, here is a comprehensive breakdown of moving box types and their average prices.
Large (100 – 110 litres)
- Extra strength – $5.99 (per box)
- Standard strength – $4.50 (per box)
- Light weight – $4 (per box)
- Dimensions – W: 465mm, L: 360mm, H: 600mm
Medium (50 – 70 litres)
- Heavy duty – $4.50 (per box)
- Light weight – $2.75 (per box)
- Dimensions: W: 335mm, L: 310mm, H: 500mm
Small (25 – 40 litres)
- $2 – $2.50 (per box)
- Dimensions: W: 230mm, L: 310mm, H: 445mm
Port-A-Robe clothes moving box (275 litres)
- Cost: ranging from – $12 – $18
Picture / mirror box
- Ideal for framed photos/artworks or mirrors
- Dimensions: W: 75mm, L: 775mm, H: 1,040mm
TV box
- A wide variety of sizes available. Can cost from: $69 – $99
Slider box
- Suitable for larger, fragile household items
- Dimensions: W: 120mm, L: 920mm, H: 1,550mm
The average cost of box deliveries
This can vary, based on which provider you choose:
- Bunnings charges $10 for any quantity, with a three-day delivery timeframe
- Storage retailers (i.e. National Storage, etc.) sell moving boxes online, from $12-$16, delivered within 24 to 48 hours
- Online box stores generally offer free delivery if you spend a certain amount (i.e. $50 or $100), and;
- A courier will deliver a set of boxes (for houses of 3-4 bedrooms) for $40-$50 if urgent delivery is required
Can you get moving boxes for free?
The short answer is, yes, you can. Many people opt for “buy, sell and swap” websites, or from department and grocery stores. There are some clear benefits to choosing free moving boxes, including:
- A good way to save money during a move, and;
- Environmental sustainability
Having said that, there are also major downsides, such as:
- Some previously used boxes may be damaged and could spill. This may damage or even destroy your goods.
- If the boxes are not thoroughly cleaned, you may find dirt and bugs inside, and;
- You’ll need plenty of time (and money for petrol) to pick up enough packing boxes to suit your needs.
But what if you don’t want to waste time and effort searching for free moving boxes? There is a convenient way you can save money when packing your belongings. Always keep some reusable shopping bags handy or even suitcases. These are perfect for small, loose, non-breakable items (i.e. clothes, tea towels, etc.).
Additional packing supplies
Generally speaking, boxes are the main concern for people when moving their belongings. However, the packing supplies to help you secure these items are just as vital. Yet these essential items are often overlooked. Don’t worry, though, as JD Movers has everything you’ll need. As an all-service removal company, we proudly supply a complete range of ancillary packing materials, as well. We offer:
- Pens
- Protective covering (ideal if you’re not using a removalist)
- Fragile packing tape and fragile stickers
- Packing tape
- Butcher paper
- Bubble wrap
- Tape dispenser gun
- Tissue paper, and more.
Don’t want the hassle of packing yourself? The professionals at JD Movers will handle everything for you!
Getting the most from your packing boxes
We know packing can be a long, complex process. To ensure you make the most of your boxes, here are some useful tips.
Fill your boxes – When filled, a box is much stronger. However, if there is too much space inside, the box may crush or lose its shape.
Put everything inside – This also includes loose items. Doing so ensures you don’t have to juggle items in your arms, which makes for a much easier move.
Place items in separate boxes – When packing, separate fragile and heavy goods. Placing them in the same box may result in crushing breakable items.
Label each box carefully – On each label, write where the items will go in your new home. This preparation will make packing and unpacking a much simpler task.
Purchase higher quality boxes – Make sure at least 50% of the boxes you purchase are made of high-quality material. You can continually reuse them, and know that even your most fragile items will be completely safe during transportation.
Whether you need individual boxes or a package, call or email our team today.