Where to Buy Bubble Wrap for Moving

Oct 17, 2024

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An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

This old saying couldn’t be more true when it comes to moving.

Packing your fragile items properly might seem like an extra step, but it can save you from the heartbreak of finding broken dishes, shattered electronics, or cracked picture frames.

And if there’s one packing material that stands out for preventing damage, it’s bubble wrap.

But here's the question we all face when it's time to pack: Where’s the best place to buy bubble wrap for moving?

After all, moving is already expensive. According to recent statistics, the average cost of moving locally in the U.S. is around $1,250, while long-distance moves can reach up to $4,000 or more​.

So, saving a few bucks on packing supplies can make a big difference, especially if you’re looking for the cheapest place to buy bubble wrap.

Did you know that you can find bubble wrap rolls ranging from $5 to $100?

So, let's break it all down, and by the end, you'll know exactly where to find the best deals.

Where to Buy Bubble Wrap for Moving: Online and In-Store Options

If you are looking for the cheapest place to buy bubble wrap, you should consider both online and local options.

Online Retailers

Online is the most convenient and affordable option, particularly when buying in bulk.

Amazon offers a variety of bulk bubble wrap deals. You can find bubble wrap in different sizes, from 12-inch wide rolls up to 48-inch.

Prices vary based on quantity, but you can find 72-foot rolls starting at about $15.

Look out for discount bubble wrap online through seasonal sales or membership deals.

Uboxes also provide a range of affordable bubble wrap options. It offers bulk purchases that save you money and has eco-friendly options. 

Big Box Stores

For those who prefer buying in person, stores like Walmart, Home Depot, and Staples carry bubble wrap.

Prices may be higher per unit compared to online stores, but the advantage is the immediate availability.

Walmart: You can find affordable bubble wrap suppliers in the home improvement or office supply sections. A 150-foot roll costs around $18​.

Home Depot: Another great option for finding inexpensive bubble wrap for moving. It often offers large rolls that work well for packing larger household items​.

Costco: Known for its bulk products, Costco provides larger quantities of packing materials. However, you might need a membership to purchase​these materials.

Moving Companies

Some moving companies sell packing materials, including bubble wrap.

They offer both packing services and bubble wrap sales.

They also frequently offer bulk discounts, especially if you rent a moving truck or use their other services​. 

Types and Sizes of Bubble Wrap

When it comes to choosing the right bubble wrap for your move, it's important to understand the different types and sizes available.

Here's a detailed breakdown of the most common types and sizes of bubble wrap.

 

Type of Bubble Wrap Bubble Size Best For Common Uses
Standard Bubble Wrap 3/16" bubbles General-purpose use Dishes, glassware, small electronics
Large Bubble Wrap 1/2" bubbles Heavier items TVs, larger electronics, framed art
Anti-Static Bubble Wrap 3/16" bubbles Sensitive electronics Computers, phones, circuit boards
Foam-Backed Bubble Wrap 3/16" bubbles with foam Delicate items Fine furniture, mirrors, and collectables
Adhesive-Backed Bubble Wrap 3/16" bubbles with adhesive Sticking directly to items for protection Odd-shaped items, auto parts
Perforated Bubble Wrap 3/16" bubbles, pre-cut every 12 inches Quick packing Fragile household items
Cohesive Bubble Wrap 3/16" bubbles, sticks to itself (no tape needed) Wrapping without tape Packing materials for large bundles
Eco-Friendly Bubble Wrap 3/16" bubbles made from recycled or biodegradable materials Sustainable packing General-purpose use, eco-conscious moves

How to Get Bubble Wrap from Recycling Centers

Many people don’t realize that it’s possible to find packing supplies like bubble wrap from places that recycle or reuse materials.

Here’s how you can go about it. 

Call Ahead and Inquire About Availability

The first thing to do is call your local recycling centers and ask if they have any bubble wrap available.

Recycling centers process all sorts of waste, and sometimes, businesses or individuals drop off packing materials like bubble wrap.

According to recent studies, over 35% of U.S. recycling centers work with businesses that drop off excess packing materials​.

Check If They Have a Drop-Off/Reuse Section

Some recycling centers have special sections where people drop off materials that can still be reused.

This could be anything from old boxes to foam peanuts to bubble wrap.

This is especially common after big shipping seasons or around the holidays.

Network with Staff or Volunteers

Build relationships with staff or volunteers at the recycling center; it can help you get insider tips.

They often know when large quantities of packing materials come in.

They might even set some bubble wrap aside for you if you ask nicely! 

Partner with Local Businesses

Some recycling centers work closely with local businesses that drop off unused or extra packaging materials.

You can ask if the recycling center can connect you with these businesses, as they often have bubble wrap they’re willing to give away. 

Participate in Recycling Events or Drives

Recycling centers occasionally host community events or material drives, where residents can drop off and pick up items that still have a useful life.

During these events, materials like boxes, bubble wrap, and packing paper are commonly available for free or at a very low cost. 

What is the Average Cost of Buying Bubble Wrap?

You are probably thinking, "How much is bubble wrap going to cost me?"

Let's break down the cost for you.

Average Price Range

Type of Bubble Wrap Roll Dimensions Average Price Range
Standard Small Roll 12" x 30 ft $5 - $10
Standard Medium Roll 12" x 100 ft $15 - $25
Standard Large Roll 24" x 100 ft $25 - $35
Bulk Bubble Wrap Deals (Cheapest per foot) 12" x 500 ft $50 - $70
Anti-Static Bubble Wrap 12" x 100 ft $18 - $30
Foam-Backed Bubble Wrap 12" x 50 ft $20 - $40
Environmentally Friendly Options 12" x 100 ft $17 - $28

Note: Prices may vary based on retailer and location.

Cost by Retailer

Let's compare prices from different types of sellers:

Online Retailers

Amazon: It offers a 12" x 175 ft roll for around $20, often with free shipping if you're a Prime member.

Uboxes: It sells bulk quantities at competitive prices and is ideal for large moves.

Big-Box Stores

Walmart: A 12" x 100 ft roll is approximately $18. It is convenient for quick pickups.

Home Depot: It has pricing similar to Walmart, with occasional sales.

Costco: It offers bulk options, but you may need a membership.

Office Supply Stores

Staples and Office Depot prices are slightly higher, around $20-$25 for a 12" x 100 ft roll. 

Specialty Packing Stores

U-Haul: A 150 ft roll costs about $20. They also offer other packing supplies.

Local Moving Companies also sell packing materials at competitive rates.

Breakdown of Costs

Let's look at how these prices change to cost per foot and cost per square foot:

Cost Per Foot

Small Rolls (12" x 30 ft at $7): it is about $0.23 per foot.

Bulk Rolls (12" x 500 ft at $60): About $0.12 per foot.

Cost Per Square Foot (useful if comparing different roll widths)

Standard Roll (12" wide): Each foot provides 1 square foot.

Wider Roll (24" wide): Each foot provides 2 square feet.

So, a 24" x 100 ft roll at $30 gives you 200 square feet at $0.15 per square foot.

How Much Bubble Wrap You Need

To avoid overbuying or making multiple trips to the store, estimate your bubble wrap needs:

Small Items (Dishes, Glassware):

Approximately 1 foot of bubble wrap per item.

For a set of 50 pieces, plan for at least 50 feet.

Medium Items (Lamps, Small Electronics):

Around 3-5 feet per item.

For 10 items, you’ll need about 50 feet.

Large Items (Mirrors, Large Electronics):

Could require 10-15 feet per item.

For 5 items, budget for at least 75 feet.

Total Estimate:

Home Size Estimated Total Bubble Wrap Needed Estimated Cost
Studio or 1-Bedroom Apartment 150 - 200 feet $30 - $40
2-3 Bedroom Home 300 - 500 feet $60 - $100
4+ Bedroom Home 500+ feet $100+

Average Costs with Other Packing Alternatives

Sometimes, bubble wrap isn't the only solution.

Here's a quick comparison:

Packing Material Average Cost Pros Cons
Bubble Wrap $0.10 - $0.23 per foot Excellent cushioning, lightweight Costs can add up
Packing Paper $0.05 - $0.10 per sheet Inexpensive, recyclable Less cushioning
Foam Peanuts $20 - $30 per cubic foot Good for filling empty spaces Messy, not eco-friendly
Towels and Linens Free (if you own them) Dual-purpose, eco-friendly Bulkier, limited supply
Clothing Free Saves space by packing two things at once Not ideal for all items

Factors Affecting the Cost of Bubble Wrap

The price of bubble wrap can widely be based on several key factors:

Size of the Roll: The larger the roll, the higher the total cost, but the cost per foot generally decreases with bigger rolls.

Type of Bubble Wrap: Each bubble wrap type is designed for a specific purpose. The type of bubble wrap you use can also affect your total cost.

Quantity Purchased: Buying in bulk reduces the cost per unit. If you have a lot to pack, bulk purchases are more economical.

Where You Buy It: Prices can differ between online retailers, office supply stores, discount stores, and specialty packing suppliers.

Brand and Quality: Higher-quality bubble wrap may cost more but can offer better protection.

Tips for Saving Money

Bulk Purchases: If you need a lot of bubble wrap, buying in bulk from affordable bubble wrap suppliers will lower the cost per foot.

Coupons and Promotions: Check retailer websites for discounts or sign up for newsletters to receive promotions.

Local Classifieds: Online Marketplaces often have people selling excess packing supplies at a discount or even giving them away for free.

Recycling Centers: Some centers offer used packing materials for free or a nominal fee.

Alternative Packing Materials: You can use linens, towels, or newspaper to supplement bubble wrap and reduce the amount you need to buy.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Yes, you can find bubble wrap at some dollar stores, such as Dollar Tree or Dollar General. Dollar stores typically carry small rolls or bubble pouches.

In most cases, it’s cheaper to buy bubble wrap online, especially if you're purchasing in bulk.

Yes, UPS and FedEx locations sell bubble wrap and other packing materials, such as boxes and tape. However, buying from discount retailers or online tends to be more expensive.

Yes, several companies now offer biodegradable bubble wrap made from recycled materials or designed to break down more quickly in landfills.

For a 3-bedroom house, you’ll likely need between 300 and 500 feet of bubble wrap, depending on the number of fragile items you're packing.