Must Have Moving Supplies and How to Use Each

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Moving Supplies

You are now taking the time in planning you move. You are looking at purchasing your moving boxes and packing supplies, but which ones do you really need. Also, do you know how to use each one correctly. Make sure to not skimp on your moving supplies. Not having enough supplies can result in damages of your most valuable items.

Here is a quick checklist of moving supplies you will need:

  • Bubble Wrap
  • Packing Paper
  • Moving Boxes
  • Moving Blankets and Pads
  • Stretch Wrap
  • Mattress Bags
  • Tape Gun and Tape
  • Permanent Markers

Moving Day Supplies:

  • Moving Truck
  • Box Cutters
  • Hand Trucks
  • Cleaning Supplies
  • Bungee Cords

How to Properly Use Moving Supplies

Now that you have purchased everything on the checklist, let us look at how to effectively use them correctly.

Bubble Wrap

Probably the simplest packing supply to use, as it comes in roles that range in length. Most of the time it is serrated every 12 inches for easy tear off. Different size bubbles are good for wrapping different items.

Always make sure to wrap your items with the bubble side facing towards the item. This will offer the best protection.

If using bubble wrap to package your dishes, make sure to place items vertically and not flat. If the box is dropped and your dishes are laying flat, there is a better change they will break.

Packing Paper

Also known as blank newsprint. It is the same paper used to print your daily newspapers. Since it is blank there is no worries about ink being transferred to your belongings. Packing paper is great to use for dishes, glassware, and other delicate items. You can also use it for a filler and padding for those less than full boxes.

Moving Boxes

First things first, you are going to want to pack the right type of items into each box size. Moving boxes come in multiple sizes like small, medium, large, and x large. Just because the box is larger does not mean you want to put heavier items in them. It is the opposite; you will want to pack your heavier items in the smaller boxes. In the larger boxes you will want to pack lighter items like pillows and linens.

When packing the larger boxes, if you are going to put heavy items into them, make sure to place them at the bottom. Try to leave as little empty space in the boxes. Use bubble wrap, packing paper, or blankets to fill the voids.

Moving Blankets

If you are not using a moving company, then moving blankets are needed for your move. They will help protect your furniture and larger electronic from becoming damaged or scratched.

Make sure to place moving blankets all the same way. This will help prevent from transferring dust and dirt to your furniture and electronics. When placing a moving pad on a chair or sofa, secure them into place with mover bands.

Stretch Wrap

It looks like a giant roll of Saran Wrap and comes in many different widths.

It is best used for wrapping dressers and desks, so that the drawers to not slide open when carrying. You can also use the plastic wrap on soft furniture like chairs and couches. This will help ensure that your cushions will stay in place. It also adds a layer of protection for dirt and getting wet.

Another great use for stretch wrap is wrapping your cutlery trays. No need to pack your silverware in separate boxes, just wrap and the tray and viola… ready to pack!

Mattress Bags

These large plastic bags come in different thicknesses and sizes. They are easy to use and will protect your mattress from dirt, dust, and water. Just slide your mattress in the correct size bag. You can also use moisture absorber packets like Dri-Its, that will add another layer of protection.

Tape Gun and Tape

Use packaging tape and not duct tape. The cheapest tape isn’t always going to be the best tape.

Make sure that you not to only tape down the middle of the box, but at each end. This will add some support. Start and finish the tape strip from the middle of the side of the box.

Once you have taped the middle and the ends of the box you are going to want to place a crisscross piece of tape through the middle.

Permanent Markers

Do not use the finer point markers, use the largest size available. This will help you be able to organize your boxes easier and see the label from further away.

Also label your boxes with this way up arrows and fragile for specific items.