It's not surprising that moving is considered one of life's most stressful events. After all, you need to pack up pretty much all of your possessions — and it has to get done by a certain date.
That's why stocking up on packing supplies ahead of time is essential. It'll make the move easier not just for you, but for your hired movers as well. Here's our checklist of 12 moving supplies you need on-hand to make your move go smoother.
Boxes are the most obvious packing supply you're going to need a lot of for moving day. Although you can find plenty in various sizes at any office supplies store, you may be able to score some free ones by asking your local liquor stores and supermarkets if they have any they wish to get rid of.
The key here is to collect boxes of different sizes to accommodate specific types of items. Delicate knickknacks should be packed into smaller boxes with plenty of padding so they have no space to move around in. Larger boxes can be used for lighting, mirrors, and other big items.
This is also one packing item you can never have too much of. Consult a quick guide to help you determine how many boxes you'll need for your move.
Of course, you'll need tape to seal up those boxes. Opt for packing tape, duct tape, or any sturdy type that will keep boxes safely sealed. Choose high-quality tape so those boxes stay sealed. Cheap tape sometimes comes with weak adhesive.
Don't forget masking tape as well. You'll need it to safeguard your mirrors from breaking when you pack them. Place two strips of tape across each mirror in an "X" pattern.
A box cutter will make the tedious task of opening boxes faster and easier once you're in your new residence. You'll also be grateful to have one handy when you need to slice up unneeded boxes for the recycling truck.
As you pack and seal up items, mark each box with permanent markers to indicate what's inside and if needed, what room they belong in. You'll also need markers to let your movers know which boxes contain fragile items. Indicate which side of the box is the top by writing "this side up" and drawing arrows.
Since you won't be able to predict the weather on your moving day in advance, consider using permanent markers that won't smudge in the rain. Or cover lettering with clear packing tape to seal out water.
You'll need to protect your delicate possessions by wrapping them in bubble wrap or sturdy tissue paper. Blank newsprint works well, as does regular newspaper as long as the item you're insulating can't get stained by the ink.
Buy bubble wrap by the roll so you can rip or cut off sheets as needed. Bubble wrap that features larger bubbles can be used to wrap bigger items or reduce space inside a box. Wrap so that the bubble side is making contact with the item for the greatest amount of protection.
Using enough padding material so that there's no movement inside a box once it's sealed is one way to protect fragile items before your move.
You'll need them throughout the packing process and when you're unloading boxes and unwrapping items.
Stretch plastic wrap looks a lot like plastic wrap you use to store food, except it has some stretch. Use it to keep drawers safely shut on furniture. It is waterproof and provides protection against dings.
Stretch plastic wrap can even be used to completely cover and protect soft furniture such as chairs and couches.
Moving blankets are usually made of a thick polyester and cotton blend fabric. Wrap them around hard furniture pieces such as tables and chairs to protect them from getting scratched and damaged.
Some moving companies supply their own moving blankets or rent them to customers. Check with yours first before you purchase them. You can also use old bed blankets of your own to wrap furniture.
You'll need string or twine to secure the moving blankets and possibly other items that you're packing.
These can come in handy for storing furniture hardware, jewelry, toiletries, and other small items. Choose ones with a label area or label bags so you know what hardware goes with the right piece of furniture.
If you're going to be taking apart and assembling furniture, get yourself a basic tool kit that contains screwdrivers, a hammer, and a wrench. You may also need it for placing nails in your new home to hang artwork.
Food, toiletries, and other items may be unavailable as the move is underway or when you begin unpacking in your new home. Throw together a moving day survival kit that contains healthy non-perishable snacks, water, instant coffee, toiletries, and anything else you may need to help you and your loved ones get through the big day.
Purchase or borrow these packing supplies ahead of time to help make your move much less stressful. Knowing your valuables are protected with the right materials will give you one less thing to worry about on moving day.
Whether you're moving a few towns over or making a cross-country relocation, Fantastic Moves can get your possessions to your new home safely. Request a quote from us today.
