01635 581 811
Whether you’re moving house, reorganising a workspace, or storing away seasonal items, one question always pops up: what box size do I need for this? It’s a simple question, but getting it wrong can cause all sorts of headaches, overstuffed boxes, damaged belongings, or wasted space. That’s why knowing how to choose the right box for packing is key to any successful move or storage project.
Let’s walk through how to pick the correct size box for different types of items, so you can pack smart, protect your possessions, and make the most of your storage space.
Why Box Size Actually Matters More Than You Think
At first glance, a box is just a box. But when it comes to protecting your belongings, especially when they’re going into long-term personal storage or being transported, a few inches here or there can make all the difference.
Too large? Items rattle around and risk damage. Too small? You might overpack it, making the box hard to lift (and likely to burst open). Choosing the right size helps with:
- Protecting delicate items
- Easier lifting and stacking
- Reducing wasted packaging
- Making the most of your storage unit space
- Avoiding injury from lifting overly heavy boxes
Start with a Packing Plan
Before you even look at box sizes, take a moment to plan what you’re packing. Go room by room and sort items into rough categories: books, kitchenware, clothing, electronics, etc. This makes it much easier to select boxes that match the weight and fragility of what you’re storing.
If you’re using one of our self storage units in Newbury, we also recommend grouping items based on how frequently you’ll need to access them, so essentials go in last and come out first.
Common Box Sizes and What They’re Best For
Here’s a quick cheat sheet of the most commonly used packing boxes and what they’re typically suited for:
Small Boxes (Up to 30 litres)
These are perfect for heavier, compact items. Think:
- Books
- Cans or jars
- Tools
- Cutlery
Packing tip: Use small boxes for dense items to avoid making them too heavy to lift.
Medium Boxes (30–60 litres)
The most versatile size, ideal for an average mix of household items such as:
- Kitchen gadgets
- Toys
- Shoes
- Office supplies
Packing tip: Add padding or fill space with soft items like socks or tea towels.
Large Boxes (60–100 litres)
Great for lighter but bulkier belongings, including:
- Bedding
- Curtains
- Winter coats
- Pillows
Packing tip: Avoid putting too many heavy items in large boxes. It’s tempting, but your back will thank you later!
Extra-Large Boxes (100 litres+)
These are best for specific needs, like:
- Duvets and bulky bedding
- Lampshades
- Cushions
- Light but large toys
Packing tip: Reinforce the bottom with extra tape, just in case.
Matching the Box to the Item: Room-by-Room Breakdown
If you’re unsure where to begin, here’s a quick breakdown to help you choose the right box for packing from each room of your home or office.
Kitchen
- Small boxes: Glasses, crockery, jars
- Medium boxes: Utensils, Tupperware, kettle
Wrap fragile items carefully with bubble wrap or tissue paper. Check out our packaging options if you need high-quality materials.
Living Room
- Medium boxes: Books, DVDs, electronics
- Large boxes: Cushions, small decor items
If you’re storing electronics like a games console or speakers, keep the original boxes if possible. Otherwise, use a snug-fitting box with plenty of padding.
Bedroom
- Medium boxes: Shoes, folded clothing
- Large boxes: Bedding, coats, bulkier clothing
Vacuum-sealed bags can also be a great way to save space, particularly for seasonal clothes.
Home Office
- Small boxes: Paperwork, stationery
- Medium boxes: Office supplies, small equipment
Make sure to label office-related boxes clearly. There’s nothing worse than rummaging for a vital file you packed “somewhere safe.”
Often Overlooked Packing Considerations
There are a few common mistakes people make when it comes to choosing box sizes,here’s how to avoid them:
1. Assuming One Size Fits All
You might be tempted to get 20 large boxes and call it a day, but using a variety of sizes keeps your load manageable and items better protected. Variety also helps when stacking inside container storage.
2. Ignoring Fragile Items
Glassware and electronics need extra care. Always choose a box just big enough to house them securely, with enough space for protective padding.
3. Overpacking Boxes
We’ve all seen the sad box with a ripped bottom and contents spilling out. Use strong tape, fill voids, and never pack over 15–20kg per box unless it’s specifically designed for heavy loads.
Packing Tips for Storage That Make Life Easier
Using the correct box is only half the story. Here are some practical packing tips for storage that help you make the most of your space and protect your items in the process.
Label Everything Clearly
Sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised how often it’s forgotten. A good label should include:
- Contents of the box
- The room it came from
- “Fragile” or “Heavy” warnings were needed
Stack Smartly
Put heavier boxes at the bottom and lighter, more delicate ones on top. Uniform box sizes also help everything stack neater.
Leave Breathing Room
Especially in storage, it’s good to leave space between stacks for easy access. You don’t want to be shifting everything just to grab a single box.
Don’t Overfill
Keep boxes filled, but not bulging. Overfilled boxes are prone to splitting and can’t be stacked safely.
Use Packaging Materials Wisely
Void fill (like bubble wrap, paper, or foam peanuts) helps protect your stuff and keeps everything snug. If you need high-quality materials, browse the packaging supplies at Newbury Self Store.
Planning for Business or Seasonal Storage?
If you’re a business owner packing up stock, office supplies or seasonal decorations, selecting the right box for packing is just as important. Oversized boxes may seem efficient, but they can lead to unnecessary product damage or storage headaches. For businesses, modular box sizing allows for easier inventory management and quicker access, especially when using a business storage unit.
Seasonal items like Christmas decorations or camping gear are another example. Medium and large boxes work best here, ideally colour-coded or clearly labelled for quick recognition when needed again.
Need a Hand with Your Packing?
Whether you’re boxing up your entire home or just putting away a few seasonal items, it pays to pack smart. Choosing the right box for packing different types of items helps you stay organised, protect what matters, and make the most of your storage space.
If you’re looking for extra support, from quality packaging materials to flexible storage units, Newbury Self Store is here to help. Our friendly team can guide you on sizes, access, and even offer handy packing tips for storage that’ll save you time and stress.
Ready to get started? Browse our packaging supplies, explore personal storage, business storage or container storage options, or simply contact us for expert advice.