6 Signs That You Need to Repack a Box
Once you pack a box, it’s a relief to know that you can set it aside until you move. Except it doesn’t always turn out that way. Occasionally, you have to repack a box after packing it incorrectly.
Here are five signs a box needs repacking, so you can fix it beforehand.
1. Loud Noises
Properly packing a box involves wrapping delicate items to stay secure and not move around inside the box.
Any clanking noise you hear when you lift and carry some of your packing boxes means their contents are touching and rubbing against each other. And if that's the case, your extra-fragile items are at risk.
Boxes that make noise need repacking. It is important to wrap each fragile item in bubble wrap and packing paper. Then, fill any remaining space in the box with breakable items with packing materials like newspapers, packing paper, or bubble wrap, so you protect the contents. Ensure nothing inside the boxes with breakables is moving or making strange noises when gently lifting and shaking them.
2. Too Heavy
A typical packing mistake is using large boxes for large, heavy items and smaller boxes for lightweight, small things. By doing this, you can easily make the carton too heavy to lift, making some of your boxes too heavy and dangerous to carry.
Rework boxes that are more than 50 pounds by packing heavy items (books, kitchenware, small appliances, etc.) into small to medium boxes and your lightweight items (clothes, bedding, etc.) into large cardboard boxes.
3. Bulging
No doubt, making moving boxes too heavy will make them impossible to lift and carry safely. However, you can also overstuff and overfill your moving boxes to the point where they become unmanageable, resulting in moving day mishaps.
Stacking boxes in a moving vehicle will be much more difficult if they have lost their original square shape from overpacking. In addition to being hard to carry, overpacked boxes are more likely to tip over during transport.
Transferring some items to another carton is wise if the box is bulging. Ensure you don't leave boxes half-empty, either. Add crumpled packing paper or another padding to complete the box.
4. Leaking
Before you pack any liquid items in a box, it’s essential to read the guidelines from your moving company. Many substances require disposal instead of transporting them, like paint or cleansers.
When packing half-used toiletries, seal them with tape and place them in an airtight container. If they break open and leak, you may need to repack the box or throw out some items.
5. Improper Sealing
Improper box sealing can expose your belongings or increase the risk of stuff falling out. If you notice a box with a loose flap, inspect the contents and reseal it. That way, you can tell whether the items in the box are causing the problem or just a lack of tape.
Use quality packing tape and tape the bottom and sides of the box twice — especially for fragile or heavy items.
6. Missing Labels
Depending on your packing strategy, some boxes may lack the needed labels. This is a problem, specifically if you must direct your movers to put the box in the appropriate room at your new home.
Labeling boxes properly takes time, and you may not feel you have the time to invest. However, unless you want to spend hours looking for lost items, it’s better to go back and label them. It might be as easy as asking someone to open the top, note the contents, make a label, and reseal it.
Packing and Moving Done Right
Packing for a move often involves repacking a few boxes. However, it’s a great way to ensure all your items arrive as expected. Contact us to learn how we can make your upcoming move less stressful.