Move the Shelf and the Books Separately
A loaded bookshelf is too heavy and the books damage the shelves. Here's how to move both.
Empty the Shelf First
Take every book off. A loaded bookshelf is 200+ lbs and the shelves sag. Box the books in small boxes (books are heavy — a large box of books is unmovable).
Disassemble If Possible
Many bookshelves disassemble into the sides, the shelves, and the back. Disassemble, bag the shelf dowels, and wrap each panel. A disassembled bookshelf takes a quarter of the truck space.
If It Doesn't Disassemble
Wrap the whole shelf in a blanket, tape it, and carry it on-end. A bookshelf on-end fits a door; flat it doesn't. Two people, one at each end.
The Back Panel
The back panel (the thin board) is structural. If the shelf is disassembled, keep the back panel — reassembly without it means a wobbly shelf.
The Books
Books pack in small boxes (1.5 cu ft). A large box of books is 70 lbs and breaks. Pack books flat, not on their spine — on the spine damages the bindings.
Anchor at the New Place
A bookshelf at the new place gets anchored to a stud. A loaded, unanchored bookshelf is a tip-over risk.
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