Preparing for a relocation can take some time. Unless you hire reputable state-to-state movers to help you, you should read up on some of the best packing materials for moving. From papers and bubble wrap to storage containers, here’s a supply list of all the materials you can apply to secure your belongings.
What Packing Materials Do I Need to Move?
Whatever your reasons to move are, one of the most important moving essentials is to gather the best packing supplies. This raises the question, What are the best packing materials? Interestingly, the best materials are also some of the most commonly used ones, such as paper, bubble/plastic wraps, and boxes. Properly securing your belongings is crucial if you don’t have insurance. Failing to do so can result in some of your stuff suffering irreparable damage. Let’s go over all the materials you might need. Finally, by making a household inventory list, you’ll be able to track your progress and ensure you don’t leave anything behind.
Make an inventory list and donate some items you don't need before you start to pack.
Paper Is One of the Most Common Packing Materials for Moving
One of the essential materials you’ll need is packing paper for moving. It should be new and clean so that you can use it for wrapping. If you don’t know how to pack china for moving or some other dishes, all you need to get started are a few sheets of paper. Take a few sheets, crumple them up, and make a layer on the storage container’s bottom. After the box is full, fill in the space between individual item pieces and make a protective layer on top.
Use Bubble Wrap for Your Most Delicate Belongings
Many people get nervous when they need to start packing fragile items. One of the most common questions people ask when moving across the country is, What is the best packing material for fragile items? Many things make bubble wrap the best packing material for moving. It’s easy to use, with bubbles ranging from small to large sizes, and it comes in rolls. For example, if you’re not sure how to pack sculptures, make sure you apply plenty of bubble wrap and a padded container. It’s also a very good option when you need to transport other large items that can’t be secured with a basic wrap. Furthermore, it’s great when you need to put your belongings in storage as it is better at protecting from moisture than most other protective wraps.
Wraps have bubbles of different sizes for various uses.
Boxes Are a Simple Way to Store Your Stuff
These are a simple way to secure all of your belongings without having to rely on industrial containers. When packing heavier items like silverware, canned goods, and books, you want to place them in a smaller box. Reinforce its base with some tape or a thicker piece of cardboard to ensure the heavier items don’t fall through the cracks. Lighter things, such as bedding and pillows, can go into larger containers.
Pro Tips on How to Use Boxes When Moving
Remember to put heavier things on the bottom and lighter on the top. The important thing to keep in mind is to distribute the weight between individual containers evenly. They won’t be of much help if you can’t lift them by yourself. If you’re moving to a smaller home and you notice that you have plenty of stuff you don’t need, it’s time to declutter. This is one of the best things to do before moving, and it will not only save you time and space but money as well. If this is all a bit too much for you, search for long-distance movers near you to help you out.
When loading the truck, place the heavier containers first.
Moving Blankets Are Necessary for Moving Cross Country
If you’re moving interstate, consider getting some blankets. These will help protect your furniture from suffering any damage during the transport. If you don’t move interstate often, this may be an unnecessary expense. Luckily, you can also get some furniture pads from a cross-country moving company.
You don't have to buy new furniture pads. Get some from professional movers.
Where to Find Boxes and Packing Supplies
There are a few places you can get all the materials you may need. Many retailers like Target and Walmart offer packing and moving supplies. Check if you have a store in your area. You can also order packing supplies for moving online at Amazon. Any excellent long-distance moving company uses its custom-made materials when providing a packing service.
Where to Get a Box and Packing Supplies Without Spending Money
Moving expenses can pile up, so many people ask, How can I get free moving boxes? If you’re looking for some free materials, the first place to look for some is with your friends and family. Many people store some of these in the hope of using them in the future. You’ll be basically doing them a favor by getting them off their hands. Furthermore, websites like Craigslist and Freecycle will probably have everything you need.
Find Some Free Materials at Local Stores
Most often, a store has to put away its packaging materials for recycling, but you can contact their supply manager and ask to get some of their used boxes. You can find some clean materials and even undamaged bubble wraps.
Don’t Forget These Additional Materials
Although these are not as essential as some other things on our list, they can make certain parts of the process a lot easier. Plastic wrap can be used to protect your furniture from staining during transportation, and it also keeps drawers from opening. You want to get some trash bags to secure shampoo bottles and other liquids. They are also great for packing clothes directly without taking them off the hangers. We shouldn’t forget about duct tape, without which securing a box would be nearly impossible. Finally, get some marking pens or sharpies. You’ll need to mark everything properly if you want to find the things you need quickly once the unpacking starts.
The video below explains where you can find some of these materials.
Hire Professional Help
Now that you know what to put on your supply list, your preparations for moving state to state can begin. If you’re last-minute moving, DIY would be unnecessarily difficult, so consider hiring a reputable cross country moving group to assist you. They provide many services besides cross-country moving, like an auto transport service.
