📋 A Guide to Essential Packing Supplies (And Where to Get Them)

A successful move starts with the right tools. Walking into a sea of belongings can be overwhelming, but having the right packing supplies on hand makes the process systematic and secure. Using proper materials not only saves time but also protects your items from damage during transit. This guide covers the essential supplies you'll need and offers tips on where to find them without breaking the bank.

📦 1. The Foundation: Boxes, Boxes, and More Boxes

Boxes are the building blocks of any move, but not all boxes are created equal. Using the right size and type is key to protecting your belongings.

• Small Boxes (1.5 cu. ft.): These are for heavy items. Think books, canned goods, tools, or vinyl records. Packing heavy items in small boxes prevents them from becoming too heavy to lift safely.
• Medium Boxes (3.0 cu. ft.): The most versatile option, these are perfect for kitchen items, small appliances, toys, and decorative pieces.
• Large & Extra-Large Boxes (4.5 - 6.0 cu. ft.): Use these exclusively for light but bulky items, such as pillows, blankets, comforters, and large lampshades. Never overpack these with heavy goods.
• Specialty Boxes: Consider these for specific items. Wardrobe boxes have a built-in bar for hanging clothes, while dish packs (or "cell kits") have cardboard dividers to safely transport plates, glasses, and stemware.

🛡️ 2. Protection and Cushioning: Your Items' Best Friends

These materials fill empty spaces in boxes and provide a protective layer against bumps and shocks.

• Packing Paper (Newsprint): Ideal for wrapping everyday items like dishes, glasses, and small trinkets. It's affordable and doesn't leave ink stains like actual newspaper. Crumple it up to use as filler in boxes.
• Bubble Wrap: This is your go-to for fragile and high-value items like electronics, picture frames, vases, and collectibles. The air-filled bubbles provide excellent shock absorption.
• Plastic Stretch Wrap: Great for keeping furniture drawers closed, bundling items like silverware together, or protecting upholstered furniture from dirt and moisture.
• Moving Blankets: While you can rent these from your moving company, having a few of your own can be useful for protecting furniture, large TVs, and artwork from scratches and dings.

🖋️ 3. The Essentials for Sealing and Labeling

Don't overlook these crucial supplies that bring it all together.

• Quality Packing Tape: This is not the place to cut corners. Invest in strong, wide packing tape (at least 2 inches) to ensure your boxes stay sealed. You'll need more than you think, so buy in bulk. A tape gun or dispenser will make the job much faster and easier.
• Permanent Markers: A few good-quality permanent markers are non-negotiable. Label every box with its contents and the destination room (e.g., "Kitchen - Pots & Pans," "Main Bedroom - Linens"). This will save you and your movers immense time and frustration during unloading.
• Box Cutter or Scissors: Essential for both the packing and unpacking process. Keep one handy at all times.

💰 4. Where to Get Supplies & Tips for Saving Money

Packing for a move can get expensive, but there are ways to be resourceful.

• Ask Your Moving Company: Many moving companies, like ours, sell a full range of high-quality packing materials. It's a convenient one-stop shop.
• For-Purchase Options: Home improvement stores (like Home Depot or Lowe's) and office supply stores sell moving kits and individual supplies.
• How to Save:
  • Ask for Free Boxes: Check with local grocery stores, liquor stores, or big-box retailers. They often have sturdy boxes they are happy to give away. Just make sure they are clean and dry.
  • Online Marketplaces: Look on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or local community groups. People who have just moved are often eager to get rid of their used (but still good) moving boxes for free or cheap.
  • Use What You Have: Use your own towels, blankets, and clothing as padding for non-fragile items to save on bubble wrap and packing paper. Suitcases and laundry baskets can be used to transport clothes and linens.

By gathering the right materials before you begin, you set the stage for an organized, efficient, and damage-free move. A little preparation goes a long way in protecting your possessions and your sanity.