Pack your books room-by-room and label the boxes accordingly. Don't just write "books." Instead, be more specific; for example, write "books, den, fiction, Koontz and Parker." This will enable you to unpack your books in an orderly, sensible manner. If you plan on carefully arranging your books in a library or reading room, specific box labeling will simplify things immensely. Don't make unpacking more of a mystery than it already is.

Early into this project, realize that there are two things you do not want: boxes that are too heavy to lift and boxes that are only half full. Usually, a beer box is the right size for books because you can fill one of these and it won't be too heavy. Otherwise, if you are using boxes that are bigger, pack your boxes in a mixed fashion: books on the bottom (one layer of upright books) and pillows, sheets, towels, clothes, etc., on top of the books. You won't waste space with half-empty boxes and you won't develop a hernia by trying to lift and carry a 50-pound box.

Protection of your books is important. As a rule, do not stack the books inside the boxes; pack the books upright without letting them fall over. Then, once you have arranged your books inside the box, don't lay other books on the spines your books. Do not put anything heavy on top of your packed books because it will either bend the bindings or cause the books to slump to the side. If you are going to try to preserve your books, this is where your efforts will make a difference: moving day. Keep your books tightly arranged in their boxes by using towels, sheets and newspaper to prevent them from falling over and bending bindings.

Do not allow books to be stored in a humid environment. If storage is your plan, invest in climate controlled storage or use a room that is air conditioned.

Finally, protect yourself from falling boxes: heavy boxes (like those filled with books) go on the bottom of any stack.

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