Let's Talk About Moving Supplies

By Julie DeLong, A-1 Freeman Moving Group 

There are different supplies that you need at all the various stages of your move, whether it be while you are packing or on moving day or somewhere in between. Read on for a list of the various moving supplies and equipment you might need for your next move!

Packing Supplies

Boxes. As a professional mover, we see it all too often, people simply grabbing whatever is at hand, without thinking about it. There are a lot of different types of boxes, with different sizes, weights, and purposes. However, you shouldn’t necessarily put anything in any box in which it will fit. Use actual moving boxes when you can, although saved shipping boxes can be handy for small items. For electronics and odd-shaped items it's often worth saving the box they originally came in. The most important thing is not to over pack boxes so that they weigh too much. Trust us, after a while, five pounds can seem like fifty. Choose boxes made from recycled cardboard if you can. After you are done with them, moving boxes can be recycled, stored for a future move, or passed on to a friend who is moving.

Remember that you can buy boxes from your moving company if you need to, and they will often give you advice on what boxes to get based on your quote. If you have your moving company pack and unpack your stuff you don't even have to worry about boxes, as they will use their own.

Packing Tape. This is the extremely sticky and durable tape that most companies trust when they’re shipping packages. It comes in a standard size to fit on a tape machine, allowing you to easily and quickly tape a box shut and move onto the next one. This is highly recommended for packing during any move. You will likely need more than you think, so be sure to stock up and buy an extra roll or two.

Packing Paper. You will need plenty of packing paper to wrap fragile items in and to also fill empty spaces in your boxes. It’s a good idea to purchase ink-free paper instead of using old newspapers. The ink from the newspaper can transfer to your belongings and may ruin them.

Bubble Wrap. Use this to wrap very delicate items, such as glassware and china. It can also be used to provide extra cushioning in boxes.

Labels / Markers. Trust us when we say that you will want to clearly mark all boxes. The last thing you want while unloading the moving van is to have to open and dig through boxes to figure out which room they need to go to. It doesn’t much matter whether you write on each box what is inside or whether you use a label. The important thing is that there is some form of identification on each box so that you know what is inside and what room the box needs to go to at your new home.

Moving Day Necessities

Dollies. These little beauties are a fantastic way to move a number of moving boxes all at once, no matter how heavy they are. You need to simply load the heaviest boxes on the bottom and go lighter as the stack gets higher. Then, just simply tilt it back and push or pull it along to your truck or into your home. This increases your efficiency and saves your back and legs from accidental injury.

Furniture Pads. Moving blankets are a fantastic way to guard against damage during a move. You can easily wrap your appliances, furniture, and other large items in them. And they’re great not only for stopping scratches and other blemishes. They’ll also help protect your possessions from dirt, dust, and moisture. With all these capabilities rolled into one item, it’s a must have for every moving tool kit. If you don’t want to purchase moving blankets specifically, we’d recommend using old towels, quilts, or other large pieces of cloth to get similar effect protection.

Ramp. You’ve managed to haul your couch out to the driveway, but now you’re faced with the task of getting it lifted off the ground and into the moving truck. A loading ramp can provide you with a tremendous amount of help. It will enable you to carry your boxes, furniture, and other possessions straight up and into the back of the truck without needing to lift the items any higher than is comfortable for you.

Cargo Straps. Also known as tie-down straps or ratchet straps, retractable cargo straps are another great way to secure your moving boxes, crates, and everything else. Their customizable length typically provides a lot more versatility than a set of bungee cords.

Of course, if you find yourself overwhelmed by the size of your move, consider getting a professional moving company to help. Our team has the experience, knowledge, and, of course, all the moving tools needed to safely and securely get your possessions from Point A to Point B as smoothly as possible.