Choosing The Right Packing Supplies

How do I pack things for moving? What supplies do I need? For most people, one of the biggest challenges is knowing how to pack. We know our items need to be protected, but we don’t always know which packing materials to use and how to get started. Using the right supplies protects your possessions from the risk of damage. And, if done right,  can make the entire process more efficient, saving you time and effort.

Packing Materials and Their Uses

When packing your belongings to transport from your old home to your new, you want to consider two things: protection, and convenience.

Protection

Moving and transporting items exposes them to the elements, bumps in the road, scrapes against walls, and abrupt stops. Fragile items may break, and valuable possessions could be ruined. The right packing materials will protect your valuables throughout the journey, reducing the potential for damage.

Convenience

Relocating often means extra tasks and paperwork. It can be tempting to just throw your belongings into boxes and hope for the best. But this approach can make unpacking difficult. A bit of planning and the right supplies will make packing - and unpacking - much simpler.

Let’s take a look at the various packing materials, their purposes, and how to choose the best options for your specific needs.

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Boxes

Standard Boxes

Versatile and suitable for general items such as books, magazines, photo albums, shoes and bags, folded clothing, and non-fragile belongings. The shape and stackable nature of boxes make them the most space-effective container for transporting your belongings.

Specialty Boxes

Specialty boxes are designed to safeguard specific items during a move, providing extra cushioning and support. Examples include dishware boxes for fragile kitchenware, wardrobe boxes for wrinkle-free clothing transport, and other specialized containers for items like artwork, mirrors, and electronics.

Reusable Moving Bins

Reusable moving bins are crafted for durability and sustainability. They offer an eco-friendly, stackable, and spacious solution for transporting a diverse range of items.

Features and tips for using boxes:

• Secure the bottom of your cardboard boxes with packing tape before filling.
• Identify Specific Needs: Match unique item requirements, such as fragile dishes or delicate clothing, with appropriate specialty boxes.
• Renting Options: Explore rental services from moving and storage companies in your area, for a convenient and sustainable alternative.
• Calculate the number of boxes you’ll need based on the volume of your possessions. Allow for extra and unforeseen needs.
• Avoid overloading by using appropriately sized boxes: smaller boxes for heavier items like books; and larger boxes for lighter items such as bed linen.

Protective Wrapping, Cushioning, and Fillers

Bubble Wrap

Bubble wrap is a versatile material for wrapping fragile items like glassware and electronics. Its cushioning effect absorbs shocks, acting as a barrier against potential damage.

Packing Paper

Packing paper protects against scratches, scuffs, and breakage during a move, especially for delicate items. Packing paper should ideally be used with packing tape to avoid unwrapping during transit.

Packing Peanuts

Packing peanuts are peanut-shaped styrofoam pieces. They can be poured into a box to fill in any gaps and provide a cushioning effect.

Packaging Foam

Foam can come in the form of sheets, egg crates, and sponge rolls. Foam is a dense sponge-like layer that protects things like electronics, musical instruments, and artwork.

Features and tips for using protective packaging:

• Versatility: The soft and pliable nature of these protective products allows for wrapping around a variety of shapes and sizes.
• Crumple packing paper to fill empty spaces in boxes. This adds a cushioning layer for additional absorption.
• Fasten bubble wrap or packing paper with packing tape to prevent it from coming loose during the move.
• Layering: Wrap delicate items, such as glassware, with packing paper first and then add a layer of bubble wrap for an extra level of protection.
• Use enough bubble wrap around each item to create a snug fit within boxes to minimize movement during transit.

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Furniture Protection

Furniture Covers

Generally made of plastic, these covers shield furniture from scratches, dust, and potential damage.

Mattress Bags

Protects mattresses from dirt and moisture.

Furniture Blankets

Most moving companies will have their furniture blankets to help protect against scratches and marks. These blankets protect not only your furniture but also the walls and elevators of the buildings you’re moving in and out of. Be sure to check in advance with your movers.

Sealing and Labeling

Packing Tape

Strong adhesive to secure boxes and prevent them from opening during transit.

Labels and Markers

To clearly label each box to make unpacking simpler.

Plastic ziplock bags

Plastic ziplock bags can be used for storing small items, such as screws and hardware from furniture, electronics cables, medicines, etc.

Features and tips for sealing and labeling:

• Get more packing tape than you think you’ll need.
• Consider color-coding box labels by room.
• Have a variety of sizes of ziplock bags. For furniture hardware, tape the ziplock bag to the underside of the furniture item.

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How to Choose Packing Supplies for Different Household Items

Assessing your belongings will help you determine the right packing materials and methods to ensure the safe transport of your items. Here's a brief breakdown of common household items and the packing considerations they may require:

Fragile Items

Examples: Glassware, ceramics, artwork, and mirrors.

Packing Considerations: Use sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, and foam peanuts for cushioning. Double-boxing fragile items can provide extra protection.

Consider the Size and Shape: Choose packing supplies that accommodate the size and shape of your belongings.

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Electronics and Appliances

Examples: TVs, computers, gaming consoles, stereo equipment, microwave, blender, and toasters.

Packing Considerations: ; otherwise, use anti-static bubble wrap, packing paper, and sturdy boxes. Remove batteries and secure loose parts.

Clothing

Examples: Clothes, shoes, accessories.

Packing Considerations: Wardrobe boxes with a hanging bar are convenient for clothing. Fold and pack smaller items in suitcases or boxes.

Furniture

Examples: Tables, chairs, dressers, and sofas.

Packing Considerations: Disassemble furniture if possible. Use furniture blankets, bubble wrap, or furniture covers to protect surfaces. Keep the hardware in labeled bags.

Books and General Items

Examples: Books, magazines, documents, and non-fragile items.

Packing Considerations: Use small to medium-sized boxes to prevent overloading. Pack books flat to avoid spine damage. Fill empty spaces with crumpled packing paper.

Kitchenware

Examples: Plates, pots, pans, utensils.

Packing Considerations: Use sturdy boxes with dividers for plates. Wrap fragile items individually with packing paper or bubble wrap.

Toys and Games

Examples: Board games, stuffed animals, and toys.

Packing Considerations: Use medium-sized boxes. For fragile toys, use bubble wrap. Keep small pieces together in labeled ziplock bags.

Linens and Bedding

Examples: Bed sheets, towels, and blankets.

Packing Considerations: Use large boxes for lightweight items. Vacuum-seal bags can reduce the space needed for bedding.

Tools and Equipment

Examples: Hand tools, power tools, gardening equipment.

Packing Considerations: Secure loose parts. Use toolboxes or sturdy boxes. Wrap sharp objects for safety.

Plants

Examples: Potted plants.

Packing Considerations: Use planters with proper drainage. Secure plants in boxes to prevent tipping. Water plants adequately before the move.

Conclusion

Remember to label your boxes with the contents and destination room. This will make unpacking much easier. Consider creating an inventory list to keep track of your belongings during the move.

The process of moving can be made significantly smoother with the right packing supplies. From boxes to protective wrapping, each material has its purpose. By following these guidelines and selecting the right packing supplies, you can ensure that your belongings are protected as you transition into your new home.

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