Moving Supplies

By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.

This saying holds true for many aspects of life, especially when it comes to moving.

Just think of this: the excitement of moving into a new home is bubbling inside you, but without the right tools and preparation, that excitement quickly turns into stress.

In fact, studies show that moving is one of the most stressful life events, and it ranks just behind divorce and job loss.

To put it into perspective, approximately 31 million Americans move each year, which is nearly 10% of the population.

And out of those millions, a significant number of people face avoidable issues simply because they lack the proper moving supplies.

From broken picture frames to lost valuables, the stories of moving disasters are all too familiar.

But it doesn’t have to be that way.

With the right moving supplies checklist and packing strategies, a logistical nightmare can be turned into a manageable process.

Having quality moving supplies not only protects your cherished belongings but also helps you stay organized during your move.

It is not just about throwing items into boxes; it’s about doing it smartly to save time, energy, and even money.

Let’s break down everything you need to know about moving supplies

Why Moving Supplies Matter

Before we get into the moving supplies checklist, let’s talk about why having the right supplies is so important.

Proper preparation not only saves time but also protects your belongings from damage.

According to industry experts, about 20% of Americans move each year, and inadequate packing supplies are a common risk that can lead to broken items and unnecessary stress.

The Ultimate Moving Supplies Checklist

When it comes to moving, your goal is to pack efficiently and securely.

Below is a detailed moving supplies list to check you have everything needed for your next move:

Sturdy Boxes

Invest in quality boxes in various sizes.

You'll need small, medium, and large boxes and specialty boxes for items like dishes, clothes, and mirrors.

Tip: Reinforce the bottoms with packing tape to prevent them from collapsing.

Did you know that the average move requires 60-100 boxes, depending on the household size?

Packing Tape and Dispensers

High-quality packing tape is essential for securing boxes.

Use a tape dispenser to make the sealing process faster and easier.

Packing Paper and Bubble Wrap

Wrap fragile items like dishes, glassware, and electronics.

The best supplies and packing advice for making moving easy always include protecting delicate items with layers of cushion.

Pro Tip: Avoid using newspaper as it can leave ink stains on items.

Furniture Pads and Moving Blankets

These items help protect your furniture from scratches and dents.

Moving blankets can be rented or purchased, and they are worth every penny when it comes to safeguarding your larger pieces.

Moving Dolly or Hand Truck

Heavy lifting can lead to injuries and damage. 
A moving dolly allows you to transport heavy items like appliances or stacks of boxes without straining your back.

Fact: Movers report that using a dolly reduces the risk of injury by up to 50%.

Labels and Markers

Label each box with its contents and the room in which it belongs.

This small step will save you significant time when you’re unpacking in your new home.

Stretch Wrap

Use stretch wrap to bundle items together and keep drawers, doors, or other components securely closed.

Specialized Packing Supplies for Unique Items

Certain belongings require more specific moving supplies.

Here’s what to use for those tricky-to-pack items:

Wardrobe Boxes

These tall boxes come with a built-in bar for hanging clothes, which makes it easy to transfer your closet directly into the box.

Dish Pack Boxes

These specialty boxes come with dividers and extra padding for dishes and glassware.

They are a must-have to prevent breakage during transit.

Mattress Bags

Protect your mattress from dirt and moisture during the move by using a durable mattress bag.

It’s an inexpensive way to check your mattress arrives in pristine condition.

The Best Supplies and Packing Advice for Making Moving Easy

While having the right moving supplies is essential, knowing how to use them effectively is just as important.

Here are some packing tips:

Pack Strategically

Start packing non-essential items a few weeks before the move and save daily essentials for last.

Don’t Overpack Boxes

Heavy items like books should be packed in smaller boxes.

Overpacking leads to boxes that are difficult to lift and prone to breaking.

Fact: Boxes that weigh more than 50 pounds are more likely to tear or burst.

Use Color-Coded Labels

Assign a color to each room and mark the corresponding boxes with that color.

It speeds up the unpacking process and helps movers know where each box belongs.

A Handy Table for Quick Reference

Here's a table that lists out moving supplies and their specific purposes: