What Packing Supplies Do I Need For Moving?

The essential packing materials include packing paper, packing tape, bubble wrap, moving boxes, and moving blankets. 

The list doesn’t stop there. 

To keep your furniture safe and protected from impact during the move, you’ll need furniture dollies, sturdy stretch wraps, bungee cords, and mattress covers. 

Before you start wondering what essential packing supplies you need to gather, create a well-thought-out plan to organize your move in advance.

A typical timeline to plan for a move is between two and three months. This allows enough time to gather the right moving packing materials and avoid settling for low-quality or overpriced items at the last minute. 

Let’s go over the packing basics you need to know before, during, and after your move. 

Key Packing Materials That You Will Need

Moving boxes are going to be the backbone of any move, and having a variety of sizes helps reduce the risk of damage. 

1. Cardboard Boxes of Different Sizes

Small moving boxes are ideal for smaller, heavy items like books or small appliances, as their compact size makes them easier to carry without much strain.

Medium boxes are suited for clothing, linens, and similar lightweight but bulky items. Use the large boxes for pillows, bedding, or oversized items that won’t fit into small or medium boxes.

For extra protection, heavy-duty moving boxes offer additional strength with double- or triple-wall construction.

Speciality boxes can be used to transport your fragile items, as these types of moving boxes provide custom protection, with additional padding to reduce the risk of any breakage. These can also be used to pack your valuables.

Pro tip: If you have long-term storage needs and are not planning on using some items immediately after moving, consider storing them in plastic bins in your garage or storage units. 

Plastic offers better resistance to moisture and pests, providing long-term protection that cardboard can’t guarantee.

Specialised Moving Boxes

Some household items are not going to fit safely into generic moving boxes, and so you will need boxes built for specific purposes. Ensure you do your research and buy the best moving boxes in Canada. 

TV Boxes

A TV box mirrors the original manufacturer’s packing, with Styrofoam inserts that help protect corners and a protective foam bag for the screen. Choose one suited to your specific TV model and size for the best fit and maximum protection during transit.

Wardrobe Boxes

A wardrobe box provides the simplest solution for clothing stored on hangers. Made from thick cardboard and fitted with a sturdy metal rod, it keeps your garments hanging upright during transit, so they don’t wrinkle or fold.

2. Packing and Labeling Materials 

Having the proper packing materials and labeling is essential to protect your belongings during transit and help you easily identify the contents of each box, simplifying the unpacking process at your new home.

Packing Tape

Packing tape seals your moving boxes and reinforces any weak seams. Choose a strong and durable tape to secure your boxes even under heavy weight. Securely taping your boxes prevents them from opening accidentally and spilling your contents during transport.

Tape Dispenser

A tape dispenser saves a whole lot of time and frustration when you have multiple boxes to seal. Its sharp cutting teeth make it easy to apply and trim tape neatly with one hand.

The right-sized dispenser will match your tape width to ensure smooth application.

Permanent Markers 

Label every box to make unpacking easier. Permanent markers work well for cardboard boxes, while masking tape provides a writable surface on plastic bins. 

Clear labels allow you to know precisely what is inside each container without opening it. Organised labelling also prevents your boxes from getting misplaced during unloading.

3. Cushioning Materials

Not every item fits inside a box, and many large pieces require custom covers to prevent scratches, dents, or dirt during the move. Additionally, these provide extra cushioning that absorbs shocks during transportation. 

Common cushioning materials that you can include are: 

Mattress Covers

Mattress bags and covers are available in standard bed sizes, ensuring a snug fit for single, double, queen, and king mattresses. Plastic covers prevent dirt, moisture, and dust during loading, while heavy-duty tarpaulin options offer extra durability against rips or tears.

Furniture Covers

Think of them as armor for couches, tables, chairs, and more. Furniture covers provide a padded layer that shields against damage when pieces bump into walls or other objects. Use them to wrap delicate wood surfaces or polished finishes to prevent lasting marks.

Moving Blankets

Well, there are countless ways to use your moving blankets. Drape them over expensive furniture, tape them around fragile appliances, or place them under items to cushion impact. 

The heavy fabric absorbs shocks and creates a reliable buffer between objects.

Bubble Wrap

Bubble wrap remains one of the most common and most effective cushioning tools. The trapped air in its bubbles absorbs any pressure and impact, distributing force evenly. 

It works best for glassware, electronics, and other fragile items that you want to protect. 

Packing Paper

Packing paper is a traditional choice for packing kitchen items, including dishes, glassware, cutlery, and other small items. The soft texture of packing paper prevents any scratches while keeping items separate in the same box.

Tip: Do not substitute it with a newspaper, as it can leave ink marks on the wrapped surfaces.

Packing Peanuts and Styrofoam

Packing peanuts and styrofoam fill empty spaces in your moving boxes, which stops items from shifting and colliding. These provide lightweight cushioning that keeps fragile objects secured inside boxes.

This material works particularly well with larger items that leave gaps too wide for paper or bubble wrap to cover.

4. Additional Tools and Moving Supplies

Whether you move yourself or hire professional movers, efficient packing also relies on a set of tools that simplify the process. 

Box Cutter

A box cutter, also called a utility knife, is needed to open and flatten boxes. With a comfortable handle and one-hand operation, it speeds up the entire unpacking process and saves effort. 

Unlike scissors, a box cutter can slice through thick cardboard cleanly and quickly. A sharp blade reduces accidents caused by struggling with dull tools.

Bungee Cords, Tie-Downs, and Cargo Straps

Cargo straps and cords prevent belongings from shifting during truck transport. By securing items at intervals, you create stability and reduce the risk of damage from sudden stops or bumps.

Stronger straps also allow heavy objects to remain fixed in place. This simple step ensures that everything arrives at the destination in the same condition it left in.

Stretch Wrap

Stretch wrap works like cling film for furniture and bundled items. Wrap your drawers, cabinets, or bureaus to keep them shut and prevent accidental opening during transit. Stretch wrap can also be used to bundle loose items like bed slats or curtain rods into a compact unit that remains intact throughout transportation.

Hand Trucks

Hand trucks or furniture dollies transfer the weight of heavy loads to wheels, which reduces the strain on your back and arms. They make it possible to lift washing machines, dryers, refrigerators, or other large appliances, preventing the risk of injuries during a move. 

Trash Bags

Trash bags play a dual role during your move. First, they collect waste and packing materials that accumulate. Second, these also serve as temporary containers for light, non-fragile belongings like clothing or linens.

Their flexibility makes them easy to carry and fit anywhere, so keep a supply on hand to prevent clutter and help maintain organisation.

Tool Set

A basic tool set ensures you can disassemble and reassemble furniture as needed. You need screwdrivers, wrenches, and pliers to take apart beds, tables, or shelves for easier transport.

Disassembling your furniture allows it to fit through the doors or into the moving truck easily. Once you arrive, you can quickly rebuild your furniture in its new location.

How to Make Your Moving Process Simple

Now that you are packed and ready to move, here are a few handy tips that make moving day more manageable and stress-free.

1. Plan in Advance

Start planning 4 to 6 weeks before you actually move. Begin packing items that you rarely use, such as seasonal clothing or holiday decorations. Create a room-by-room packing checklist to ensure that nothing is overlooked. Prepare early to reduce last-minute stress on your moving day.

2. Get Rid of Some Stuff

Decluttering before you start packing makes the process a whole lot easier. Sell or discard items you no longer use, and you will reduce the number of boxes to pack and carry.

This approach saves time, lowers moving costs, and helps create more space in your new home.

Donations can also be a great alternative to selling. Explore the top places to donate and give your items a new lease on life with someone who truly needs them.

3. Use Covers, Blankets, and Wraps to Protect

Before loading, wrap mattresses, furniture, and fragile items with protective materials. Moving blankets, stretch wraps, and cargo straps keep everything secure inside the truck.

Taking this step helps prevent scratches, dents, or shifting during transportation.

4. Consider Professional Movers for Long-Distance Moves

Hiring professional movers is a safer option for long-distance relocations and is much less stressful.

Professional movers have the right equipment and experience to ensure your belongings are transported safely. If you’re not comfortable moving your items yourself, hiring professional movers can give you peace of mind and reliable support.

Pro tip: Book your move early to guarantee availability and the best price.

7 Quick Tips To Keep in Mind When Moving 

Every move is going to feel overwhelming if you approach it without structure. Simple planning reduces the pressure and gives you more control over the process. 

Here are a few tips to make your life easier.

1. Make a Moving Checklist

Organize your move step-by-step with a written moving checklist. This document guides you through packing, loading, and unpacking in order. Check off tasks as they are completed. 

This prevents oversight and provides a sense of progress. A clear plan turns a chaotic move into a well-structured process.

2. Find Free Boxes 

Cut costs by collecting free boxes from local shops. Grocery stores, home improvement outlets, and other businesses often give away sturdy cartons. These boxes work well for lightweight items that don’t need double-walled protection. This not only helps you organize moving boxes quickly but also saves money on your move. 

3. Disassemble Heavy Furniture

Large furniture pieces often do not fit through doorways or stairwells. Plus, getting them into the moving truck is also a hassle. So, disassembly is necessary.

Break down larger furniture, such as beds, shelves, and bookcases, into smaller parts, making them easier and safer to carry. Once at the destination, these can be easily reassembled and returned to full function without stress.

4. Label or Colour-Code Moving Boxes by Room

Assign each room a specific color or label and place them consistently on the same side of every box.

During unloading, this will help you quickly put the boxes in the correct room, saving a lot of time.

5. Stack Heavy Boxes on the Bottom and Light Ones on Top

Stack the moving boxes by weight to maintain stability and balance inside the truck. Heavier boxes at the bottom prevent lighter cartons from being crushed.

This setup also lowers the risk of tipping when moving stacks. Proper stacking will help keep your items undamaged.

6. Fill Empty Spaces in the Boxes

Empty gaps inside moving boxes can cause items to shift and break during transport. Fill any space with bubble wrap, packing paper, or styrofoam. This helps keep everything secure and reduces the risk of damage.

7. Rent the Right Size Moving Truck

Selecting the correct truck size avoids wasted trips or unnecessary expenses. A smaller truck than needed will require multiple trips, while a larger truck than needed will leave unused space.

Whether you rent a truck or hire local movers, one thing remains common: Estimating your load carefully and choosing a vehicle that matches your needs. A right-sized truck will ensure the most efficient transport.

Final Thoughts 

Moving successfully depends on preparation, organisation, and the right supplies. Always invest in high-quality packing materials to ensure your belongings remain safe from start to finish. 

Each resource has its distinct role to play in keeping the process smooth. While you might not need everything on this list, having most will make things much easier.

Begin planning early and have all essentials ready to start packing. This should make relocation much more manageable and secure.

For those seeking a more hands-off approach, selecting the right moving company is a better option. They offer end-to-end support throughout your move and handle every stage of the process with expertise. Compare moving company prices and choose the perfect one that suits your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the most important packing supplies needed for moving?

When packing for a move, the most critical supplies include sturdy moving boxes of various sizes, essential packing materials like bubble wrap and packing paper to protect fragile items, and a generous supply of strong packing tape with a dispenser. 

Don’t forget to get markers for clear labeling and consider renting or buying moving equipment such as a hand truck or furniture dolly to transport heavy items safely.

2. How many boxes should I buy before moving?

This will depend on the size of your home. A one-bedroom apartment move will require over 30 boxes, while a three-bedroom apartment will need over 60 boxes. 

Note that this is an estimated value. Check out your requirements to calculate the exact number of boxes you need. Always buy extra to avoid a shortage.

3. Is bubble wrap better than packing paper?

Both of them serve their own purpose. Bubble wrap is better at protecting fragile items, while packing paper is more suitable for wrapping and filling empty spaces in your moving box. Both provide protection during the move. Ultimately, neither is necessarily better than the other. 

4. Can I reuse old boxes for moving?

Yes, this helps save money on moving costs and encourages reuse. However, only use old boxes that are still intact and in good shape. If you use worn-out boxes, they might collapse under weight. New, sturdy boxes are always safer. 

5. Are mattress covers essential?

Yes, mattress covers are an essential but often overlooked moving supply. They protect a mattress from tears, scuffs, and dirt during transit. A heavy-duty plastic or vinyl cover also guards against moisture, spills, and pests, making moving a mattress easier.