Selecting boxes for your move does require a few considerations to insure that your items are moved without damage due to box failure.
Overloading boxes can result in a crushed or busted box resulting in damage to the contents. To determine if the boxes that you are choosing will suit your use look for the manufacturer’s stamp. The circular stamp found on one of the flaps will contain gross weight, minimum edge crush ratings and possibly bursting strength.
The lightest weight single wall box that should be used for moving will have the following ratings: Max Wt. (contents) 65#, Burst rating 200# per square inch, Minimum Edge Crush 32# (per inch width). A box with this rating can be used when the box and contents weigh less than 65#. This weight limit works fine for multiple light to medium-weight items in a box where individual boxes are packed tightly in organized rows and stacks. If a single heavy item will be placed in the box we suggest limiting the weight to 45# or upgrading the box with a 275# burst rating, minimum edge crush of 48# and Max weight rating of 100#.
Standard moving industry box sizes (Length X Width X Depth in inches):
16 ¾ X 12 ½ X 12 ½ = Small (for books, C.D.s and other small heavy weight items).
18 X 18 X 16 = Medium (for non-heavy items).
18 X 18 X 24 = Large (for bulky items and kitchen pots, pans and counter top appliances).
15 X 12 ½ X 10 ½ = File (for legal and letter size files).
18 X 18 X 28 = Dish pack – double wall box. Dishes, stemware, glasses, fragile items.
Note: double wall box ratings = 200# burst, 42# minimum edge crush, max load 80#.
