Packing Supplies: 10 Essentials for a Stress-Free Move

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January 28, 2021

Not sure what you need for your move? Don’t worry—we have you covered. We’ve prepared this list of essential packing supplies to make moving a little easier. Learn what tools you need to get the job done quickly and efficiently, so you can turn the page and move onto the next chapter of your life.

We’ll cover 10 essentials for safety, storage, organization, and more. Read on to see if you have everything you need for a stress-free move.

1. Moving boxes

First and foremost, you’ll need some moving boxes. Buy cardboard moving boxes from a reputable seller, such as a moving company, grocery or liquor store, or an office-supply store. This is something you don’t want to skimp out on, because you want these boxes to be sturdy and resilient. If you use old or subpar boxes, they’re more likely to break—and that’s something you don’t want to happen in the middle of your move.

Buy a variety of boxes so that you can fit different belongings in each of them. For heavier items like books, you’ll want smaller boxes, ideally less than 12 inches. Save the bigger boxes for large, bulky items. For glasses, mugs, and other fragile belongings, try using boxes with partitions in them.

2. Box cutter

A box cutter is an essential tool for any move. You’ll need one when unpacking, but even in the middle of packing up your belongings, you never know when you might need one to re-open a box to add a few more items. Just be careful, and cut with caution: The last thing you want to do is cut yourself—or cut your belongings!

3. Packing tape

Up your packing game with some quality packing tape. Don’t settle for the cheapest tape available, as it tends to rip and tear, creating more of a hassle than the couple dollars saved are worth. Treat yourself to good-quality, standard packing tape, and while you’re at it, spend a few extra dollars to get a tape gun or two: You’ll thank yourself later.

If you like, you can also buy some masking tape to use as labels for your boxes and belongings.

4. Labels and markers

When you’ve moved into your new place, the last thing you want is to have to go sifting through all your boxes looking for the essentials. That’s why it’s important to stay organized and label every box you pack. Write down the contents of each box on the top or front, and organize your boxes by room or category. If you’re using cardboard boxes, you can write directly on the outside of the box. If you’re using reusable plastic boxes or another alternative, buy some pre-made labels or use masking tape.

5. Cushioning

You’ll want at least one or two types of cushioning to protect your fragile belongings. Here are four options:

• Packing paper: Packing paper is great for wrapping up sharp objects and dishware. Use plenty of layers to provide extra support and cushion. Instead of packing paper, you can also use blank newsprint, but avoid anything with ink, like newspaper, as the ink can bleed, staining your belongings.
• Bubble wrap: Use bubble wrap as an extra layer of protection for glass and porcelain. You can also use it to fill up space in boxes so your belongings won’t rattle around.
• Furniture padding: Furniture pads are thick coverings used to cover large pieces of furniture and protect them from getting scratched. Also known as moving blankets, furniture pads can be rented or purchased.
• Foam sheets: Foam sheets are thin polyethylene sheets that you can use to wrap delicate objects. You can also stack them between objects—such as plates and bowls—so they don’t smack against each other. All in all, a worthy purchase.

6. Scissors

Your standard set of scissors is a must-have in any household. They’re also a must-have when you’re packing. You can use them to cut tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, and any other packing supplies you’ll be using. Keep a pair close at hand.

7. Basic toolkit

Keep a toolkit with everything you’ll need to remove screws, pull out nails, and disassemble shelves and furniture. Your mileage may vary depending on the size of your home, but at the bare minimum, we recommend a hammer, Allen key set, screwdriver set, set of pliers, and crescent wrench. If you’re moving furniture, you’ll also want a measuring tape so you can check that everything will fit through the door. If you plan to do some drywall patching, invest in a putty knife.

8. Stretch wrap

Stretch wrap is a versatile, valuable tool to keep your belongings safe and secure. You can use it as a final layer of protection for boxes, furniture, and anything else you need protected. You can also use it to keep drawers on dressers and nightstands closed, so you don’t have to worry about them falling out while moving them.

9. Garbage bags

Keep several garbage bags on hand for any last-minute clean-up jobs. You can use them to throw away trash, sure, but you can also use any extras to pack any odds and ends, like pillows or linens.

10. Resealable bags

Resealable bags are great for storing small items like jewelry or screws and brackets. Keep all your hardware in sorted, sealed bags so you won’t have to rummage endlessly for it in your new place.

You can also use large, vacuum-sealed bags to store clothes more efficiently.

Your Packing Supply Checklist:

• Moving boxes
• Box cutter
• Packing tape
• Labels and markers
• Cushioning
  • Packing paper
  • Bubble wrap
  • Furniture padding
  • Foam sheets
• Scissors
• Basic toolkit:
  • Screwdriver(s)
  • Hammer
  • Measuring tape
  • Putty knife (if needed)
• Stretch wrap
• Garbage bags
• Resealable bags

For More Expert Packing Help, Turn to Inner City Moving

Need more top tips and expert moving assistance? Inner City Moving has you covered. We are Toronto’s leading local moving company, and we provide a complete range of services and products to help our clients make the most of their move. If you’re in the Toronto area, don’t hesitate to take advantage.

We offer a wide range of packing supplies to make your move easier and less stressful. Call us today at (416) 656-8924 to get a quote.