10 Packing Materials You Need

When moving across town or the country, using the best packing supplies can help protect your belongings and keep them organized. This guide will show you the top 10 packing materials you need, explained in simple terms so anyone can follow.

Tips for a Smooth Packing Experience

Before you start gathering and preparing packing materials, make a checklist of everything you need to do and provide:

Start Early: Don’t wait until the last minute to pack. Start with items you don’t use often, like seasonal clothes or decorations.

Pack by Room: Keep things from the same room together. This makes unpacking much easier.

Fill Empty Spaces: Use towels, clothes, or packing paper to fill gaps in your boxes. This prevents items from moving and breaking.

Mark Everything: Mark each box with its contents and destination room. It saves time and stress later.

1. Packing Tape

Packing tape is like the glue that holds everything together; literally! You’ll need strong, heavy-duty tape to seal your boxes so they don’t open during the move. Look for reinforced tape for fragile items that can handle shocks and bumps. Use the “H” seal method to ensure your boxes are secure by taping along the edges and seams.

2. Bubble Wrap

‍Bubble wrap is a lifesaver for fragile items like glass, mirrors, or decorations. It cushions your items and protects them from breaking. If you don’t want to use bubble wrap because it’s not eco-friendly, you can substitute towels or old clothes to wrap your fragile items.

3. Moving Blankets

Moving blankets are thick and soft, perfect for wrapping large furniture or appliances. They protect your items from scratches and dents while keeping them clean. Regular comforters or thick blankets from home can also work if you're on a budget.

4. Boxes in Different Sizes

When you’re getting ready to move, boxes are important. They help keep your items safe and organized. Without them, moving would be hard.

The best boxes for moving are usually made of cardboard. They’re strong and can hold a lot of stuff. You can find them at stores, self-storage places, or even online. If you want to save some money, you can also find free boxes, which is a great way to cut costs!

Different Types of Moving Boxes

There are different sizes of boxes, and each one is good for packing different items.

• Small Boxes: These are perfect for heavy things like books, cutlery, tools, and canned food.
• Medium Boxes: These are good for lighter but bigger items like pots, pans, small appliances, and toys.
• Large Boxes: These work well for lightweight but large things like pillows, blankets, and comforters.
• Wardrobe Boxes: These boxes have a bar inside to hang clothes like suits, dresses, and coats.

Packing Tips

‍When packing, make sure to fill the boxes all the way. You can use things like packing paper, towels, or even old clothes to fill any space. This will help keep your items safe and prevent them from moving around inside the box.

‍Special Boxes

‍Some things need special boxes to keep them safe during the move. For example:

• Wardrobe Boxes: These are perfect for clothes that need to stay on hangers.
• Picture Boxes: These are made for flat items like paintings, mirrors, or even your TV.

By picking the right boxes for each thing you’re packing, your move will be easier, and your things will stay safe.

‍5. Permanent Markers

‍Mark your boxes are a must! Use permanent markers to write what’s inside each box and where it should go, like “Kitchen” or “Bedroom.” You can even use different colors for each room to make unpacking easier.

‍6. Scissors or Box Cutter

‍You’ll need scissors or a box cutter to cut tape, open boxes, and trim materials like bubble wrap or blankets. Keep one handy during the entire move—you’ll use it a lot!

‍7. Packing Labels

‍Packing labels helps you stay organized. You can buy pre-made labels or make your own with paper and tape. When you place a label, use clear packing tape over it to prevent the label from peeling off or tearing. Markers should be of good quality to ensure the ink doesn’t smudge.

‍Box Labeling Codes

‍Use a color-coding system to label your boxes. This system is simple and very efficient. It's important to choose one color for each room and stick to those colors throughout the packing process.

‍Using Numbers

‍Another great way to label moving boxes is by using numbers instead of color codes. Number the boxes (e.g., boxes 1 to 10) to easily track them and ensure that nothing gets misplaced or lost.

‍8. Tool Set

‍A basic tool set helps take apart furniture like beds or desks and put things back together once you’re in your new home. Make sure your toolset includes the following:

• Screwdriver (in several different sizes)A screwdriver will be essential for disassembling and assembling items, so having a variety of sizes is crucial.
• Hammer
  A hammer can assist you in both disassembling and assembling items, just like the screwdriver.
• Allen Key (Hex Key)
  This hexagonal key can save you a lot of time when taking apart or assembling large pieces of furniture. Be sure to get a set of different sizes.
• Tape Dispenser Gun
  When you have many boxes to seal, save time and avoid frustration by using a tape dispenser. It will help you seal boxes in just a few minutes.

‍9. Plastic Bags

‍Plastic bags are useful for packing items that might be exposed to moisture. They are flexible, lightweight, and allow you to see what’s inside, so you don’t have to waste time searching for the items you need. Also, plastic bags are great for small items like screws, cables, or toiletries. Mark the bags so you know what’s inside.

‍10. Packing Paper

‍Packing paper is perfect for wrapping dishes, glasses, and other delicate items. It fills empty spaces in boxes so things don’t shift around. If you don’t have packing paper, newspapers can work too, but they might leave ink stains.

‍Hiring Professional Services

‍Consider hiring professional moving services that can help you move your belongings to your new home quickly and efficiently. These companies offer a wide range of services that can significantly facilitate the moving process, and they have all the needed materials.

From packing and protecting your valuables, through transport and unpacking, to placing the furniture in the desired place, professionals have the experience and equipment to do everything safely and stress-free.

‍Conclusion

‍Packing doesn't always have to be a chore. With carefully selected and secured packing supplies, you'll be ready to pack like a pro. Just remember to stay organized, start early, and use the right materials. Moving day will be here before you know it, and with the right tools, you'll be ready for a smooth transition into your new home.

Contact us today for a free quote at (718) 619-4881.