An impending moving date can begin to clutter your mind and take over your life as you try to recall the seemingly endless list of things you need to do. Whether it’s the items you need to pack, the removalists you need to book or the utilities you need to notify, there always seems to be something crucial to organise. However, no matter where you are in your moving process, having the right packing materials for moving house can make all the difference. Rushing out to the shops every time you need a pair of scissors, bubble wrap or another packing box can add unnecessary time and stress to your tight schedule.
To save time, reduce stress and equip you with everything you need to take on the task of moving, we’ve created the ultimate moving and packing supplies list. In this checklist, we cover all the important things you need for packing to move. While you may not need everything on this list, it will provide you with a comprehensive look at the different types of tools and supplies that can make your relocation a whole lot easier. For questions on any of the topics covered, or if you need help sourcing quality packing supplies, get in touch with our team on 0800 255 433 today.
Boxes
Boxes are the first item on the moving supplies checklist. While packing boxes are clearly a fundamental resource for moving homes, it’s important to get the right type of box to match your needs. We strongly recommend using the highest quality packing materials for your move as they will give your belongings the best protection and support during transit. While second-hand boxes and moving bags can appear like a convenient solution when offered by friends or family, you may come to regret the decision if your glassware or favourite kitchen appliance ends up falling through the bottom in the moving truck.
Not only do boxes range in their quality, durability and size, but also in their design. There is a near-limitless array of customised boxes to suit any specialty item or requirement that you may have. You would be excused for assuming that every box is equal. However, you’d be amazed at the difference a personalised box can make to the stability and security of your items. The less room your items have to move and the more support they have in their packaging, the better the chances of a successful move free from damage or incident. Below we cover the most popular and useful selection of specialty boxes.
Packing boxes
- Small moving boxes (book carton)
Small moving boxes are the best choice for heavy items that could easily overload a larger size box. Books, kitchenware and sporting equipment like dumbbells are good examples. A general rule of thumb is that you don’t want more than 4kg per box to prevent injury or compromise the structural integrity of the box. Small moving boxes are also great for fragile items that you need to pack on their own to prevent being damaged by other items.
- Medium moving boxes (standard carton)
Medium-sized moving boxes are the most popular type of box. They are a good general fit for most household items. They also work well with inserts and packing kits which help to divide a box and prevent damage or scratches incurred from friction or collision.
- Dish pack kit
Dish pack kits are additional inserts that fit into medium-sized boxes and allow the easy and safe packing of plates and bowls.
- Glass pack kit
Glass pack kits are also compatible with medium-sized boxes and help to divide glassware without fear of bumping or cracking during transit.
- Large moving boxes
Large moving boxes are another essential item for moving as they allow you to fit significantly more items. However, be sure to use these for lightweight goods such as clothing, pillows or empty Tupperware that is unlikely to exceed 4kg when filled to capacity.
Speciality Boxes
- Electronic boxes
Electronic boxes are those which are specifically designed for your electronic appliances. This includes gaming systems, media players, sound systems and any other appliance that you wouldn’t want to risk sliding around in a generic box.
- Wine Boxes & Inserts
Wine boxes and inserts are an absolutely essential packing supply for anyone with a wine collection. These provide your bottles with the support they need to remain in their ideal state, keeping them safe and fresh over the course of your move.
- Archive Boxes
Whether you’re doing a commercial move, or moving a home office, archive boxes are a valuable resource for safely moving large quantities of paperwork and documents.
- Port-a-Robe
Port-a-Robes are moving boxes that allow you to hang your clothes, keeping them protected and wrinkle-free through your transit. While you probably won’t bother packing all your clothes in these, they can be a great way to move your cherished items or important work outfits.
- TV Cartons
TV Cartons are heavy duty boxes made in various sizes that match typical TV sizes. These are designed to protect larger fragile items such as televisions, computer screens, picture frames or mirrors that you don’t want placed in the same box as other items that could cause damage.
Moving Bags, Covers & Blankets
Moving bags, covers and blankets are the perfect complementary packing supply. While boxes are good for most household goods, these supplies allow you to protect and move your larger items, particularly mattresses. If you have a large house with multiple bedrooms, these items are going to make your life a lot easier.
- Moving bags
Moving bags are an excellent utility tool for storing and transporting a wide variety of goods. From blankets and linen to clothes, pillows, knick-knacks and bric-a-brac. When you’re done with your move, moving bags can be used to store items away easily, or simply folded up and put away for later use.
- Bed covers
Bed covers are an essential item for protecting your mattresses from collecting dirt, dust and damage during your move or when placed into storage. Considering the sheer amount of time you spend on your mattress, it’s a good idea for matters of health and hygiene that you keep your mattress clean.
- Moving blankets
Moving blankets are very thick, heavy-duty blankets that you can use to protect your furniture, picture frames, glassware or other belongings during removals, storage or shipping. These invaluable moving supplies can provide padding, prevent scratches and help to give some extra support and security to your most-loved items during a move.
Packaging Materials
Once you’ve got your boxes and bags, the next step is to consider the type of packaging material that you will use to cushion and protect your items. While a specialty box will limit the space available for your items to shift and move, some packing paper or bubble wrap is the extra step you need to take to ensure your items will be safe, regardless of bumpy roads or turbulent flights.
- Bubble wrap
- Stretch plastic wrap
- Furniture pads
- Packing paper
- Plastic tarps
- Cardboard sheets
Tapes & Accessories
It’s not enough to simply have a good box and quality packaging if your boxes come flying open during the journey. That’s why you want to source plenty of high-quality tapes to keep them sealed throughout the move. In addition to the tape, you’re going to need some markers to label your boxes and a good pair of scissors or a knife to open them on the other end. Below we’ve covered the rest of the accessories you’re likely to need for the moving process, including a toolbox to help dismantle any furniture or equipment that is better transported in pieces.
- Various tapes - packing, shipping, masking, strapping, duct, painters, fragile
- Tape dispenser
- Packing knife
- Permanent markers
- Scissors
- Box cutters
- Plastic baggies
- Toolbox
Cleaning supplies
Cleaning supplies often get forgotten during a move, but are an important resource to have on hand. Whether you’re moving between rentals or purchased properties, there will always be something to clean up or spruce to get everything into a desirable state. Below we have listed the essential cleaning supplies when it comes to getting your new home in order or doing a final clean of your old home.
- Broom
- Dustpan
- Vacuum
- Sponges
- Paper towels
- Garbage bags
- Mop
- Bucket
- Glass cleaners
- Multi-purpose cleaners
Get help with moving supplies
If you need help sourcing quality moving boxes, or if you would prefer a valet packing and unpacking service to do the hard work for you, get in touch with our team today. We offer free quotes on all of our moving services, ranging from packing and moving to cleaning and transit insurance. So if your move has started to feel daunting, reach out to our experienced movers to take the stress out of the process.