Moving Supplies

When it comes to moving supplies, the phrase, “too much of a good thing” can definitely ring true.  Like any other facet of your move, it’s important to keep your overall moving goals and needs in mind when purchasing your moving supplies.  Otherwise, you could wind up grossly under- or over-supplied come moving day…

Moving Goals

Remember, every move is different.  Even subtle differences from move to move can have a big impact on what supplies and services are necessary.  Just because Aunt Judy tells tales about the hundreds of feet of bubble wrap she needed for her move, doesn’t mean you’ll have to do the same.  Oh, and that friend of yours who just used crumpled up newspaper for his dishes?  Why don’t you ask him how many dishes made the trip unbroken?  The point is, you know what you have and what you want protected during your move.  If you have a lot of breakables, then you’ll obviously need more moving supplies than someone who doesn’t.  Or, you may have a higher number of moving boxes and you’ll need to stock up on packing tape.  Sit down and evaluate your needs before starting your move to help guide you through the whole moving process.

When In Doubt…

…protect it.  If you are waffling back and forth on whether a certain item is worth wrapping in bubble wrap, just wrap it up.  When have you ever said, “I wish my items were less protected?”  How about never?  Also, keep in mind that the most important moving supply prior to your move may very well be the large black marker.  Used properly, this bad boy will alert your movers to the presence of fragile items and the need to take extra care with certain packages.  Also, you can save yourself a whole heap of time during unpacking by clearly labelling the destination and contents of every single moving box.

Quality Supplies

As tempting as it may be, particularly if you need a lot of moving supplies, please do yourself a favor and fight the urge to go visit Bob’s Discount Moving Supplies.  You’ve decided that your items are worth protecting and you’ve made the decision to purchase extra moving supplies, don’t fall short by skimping on quality.  The fact is, you can buy a lot of bubble wrap or packing paper for the cost of replacing broken dishes or other fragile items not properly protected.  Take the time to select a high quality vendor of moving supplies at a price you like.  You’ll thank yourself later.

Overall, a little planning time goes a long long way during your move.  This includes the time you spend considering your moving supplies as they pertain to your specific moving needs.

If you’ve watched any of your neighbors move in recent years, you’ve probably seen a whole spectrum of packing supplies be used.  There’s the family that goes way over the top with half a dozen dollies, a giant moving truck, and enough bubble wrap and packing paper for 15 moves.  Then there’s the other family who grabs used grocery store boxes, throws their stuff in, and hopes for the best.  Fortunately for you, there are a few standard packing supplies that fit any move, regardless of your specific needs…

1. Bubble wrap

This is a must for anyone moving items that can be broken by anything harder than a light bump.  You would probably be amazed at how easy it is for your favorite bowl or vase to end up in pieces from even a relatively gentle van ride.  A layer of bubble wrap is just what those breakables need to survive their journey.  And don’t be reluctant to add an extra layer for any especially prized items.

2. Moving blankets

Consider these a type of bubble wrap for your larger items.  Wooden furniture is in special need of protection during your move, as items that jostle or bump against it can cause scratches or gouges.  Moving blankets help soften the blow of any unexpected shifting in the back of your moving truck.  Like many other packing supplies, moving blankets are also versatile.  Before covering your furniture, try using your moving blankets as “moving rugs” underneath some heavier (well-balanced) items, allowing you to safely drag them along.

3. Packing tape

You also might be surprised how many people never bother to tape their moving boxes before loading them up.  Your moving boxes simply are not fully protective with an tapeless top.  Items inside are much more likely to shift without tape, not to mention the mess you’ll find if any of your untaped boxes tips over.  Give your items that last loving touch with some high quality packing tape right across the top of those moving boxes.  And, when in doubt, double-tape the bottom of especially heavy boxes.  Your toes will appreciate it.

Your move will likely require some other specialty packing supplies not on this list, but these three cornerstones of moving should get you started on the right track.

Moving day coming up?  Feeling overwhelmed yet?  If it’s any consolation, you are not alone.  Far from it.  With all the planning and organization that goes into a moving day, it can feel like a whole other full-time job.  You’ve got moving boxes to find, moving supplies to buy, you have to figure out if you need a mover or just a big group of helpful friends.  Before you get lost in the details, take a moment to read a few of our helpful moving day tips…

1. A little pre-planning…

…goes a long way.  Hopefully this tip isn’t reaching you too late.  It’s never too early to begin planning your move.  You can pack away some seasonal clothes you know you won’t need again before your move, for example.  Or maybe you want to line up a babysitter to watch the kids on moving day.  You will also want to get a jump on determining your specific needs for moving supplies.  Nothing can ruin a moving day quicker than running out of an essential like bubble wrap or packaging tape.

2. Pack light

Like most of us, you may have the mentality of “quick and painless” for your move.  You just want to have as few boxes as possible and get them moved as quickly as possible.  Taking this approach to an extreme can leave you with regrets, especially if you open up your boxes and find damaged or broken valuables inside.  Take the time to pack your items right and just remember that it’s ok to leave your boxes a little lighter.  It’ll make it easier on you and your stuff come moving day, that’s for sure.

3. Buy strong

When it comes to purchasing moving equipment, supplies, and any other items you may need for the big day, don’t cut corners.  If you think you need bubble wrap for especially fragile items, then get the bubble wrap.  The last thing you want is to have your first day in your new house or apartment be spoiled by a broken mess in your moving boxes.  Your items deserve to be protected during your move with first-rate moving supplies.

Overall, just keep your wits about you and moving day does not have to be overly stressful…especially if you’re ready for it.