What packing supplies do I really need?

Essential Packing Supplies for a Smooth Move

Effective packing begins with having the right materials. Utilising appropriate supplies protects belongings, streamlines the loading and unloading process, and helps ensure items arrive at their destination intact. Professional removal companies often provide packing services and materials, but for those opting to pack themselves, specific items are universally recommended.

The Core Essentials

• Cardboard Boxes: The cornerstone of any move. A mix of sizes is crucial.
• Small boxes (approx. 30x30x30cm): Ideal for heavy items such as books, DVDs, tinned food, or tools. Using small boxes prevents them from becoming too heavy to lift safely.
• Medium boxes (approx. 45x30x30cm to 45x45x45cm): Versatile for kitchenware, small appliances, toys, and linen.
• Large boxes (approx. 45x45x70cm to 50x50x50cm): Best for lighter, bulkier items like cushions, duvets, towels, and clothing. Avoid packing heavy items in large boxes, as they become unmanageable and prone to collapsing.
• Double-walled boxes: Opting for double-walled boxes over single-walled provides superior strength and protection, particularly for heavier or more fragile contents.
• Packing Tape: Strong, good-quality packing tape is indispensable. PVC or polypropylene tape offers excellent adhesion. Ensure a sufficient supply; it is a common oversight to underestimate the amount required. A tape dispenser speeds up the sealing process considerably.
• Marker Pens: Thick, permanent marker pens are essential for clearly labelling boxes with their contents and destination room. A good marker pen is worth its weight in gold when locating the kettle upon arrival.
• Packing Paper: Unprinted newsprint or specialist packing paper is excellent for wrapping fragile items like crockery, glassware, and ornaments. It provides cushioning and prevents scratching without transferring ink.
• Bubble Wrap: Offers superior protection for highly delicate or valuable items. It is particularly useful for electronics, framed pictures, and ceramics. Consider different bubble sizes for varying levels of protection.
• Labels: Pre-printed labels or coloured stickers can supplement written labels, making it easier to identify boxes by room or priority.
• Utility Knife or Scissors: For opening packing material rolls and disassembling boxes.

Protective and Specialised Items

• Removal Blankets / Furniture Pads: These reusable blankets are vital for protecting furniture from scratches, dents, and dirt during transit. They are typically used for large items like tables, chairs, sofas, and white goods.
• Stretch Wrap / Shrink Wrap: Useful for securing drawers and doors on furniture, bundling loose items, or protecting upholstery from dirt and moisture.
• Mattress Bags: Heavy-duty plastic covers designed to protect mattresses and box springs from dirt, tears, and moisture.
• Wardrobe Boxes: These stand-up boxes come with a metal bar, allowing clothes to be transferred directly from the wardrobe on their hangers. They save time and prevent clothes from creasing.
• Picture and Mirror Boxes: Specially designed boxes with adjustable inserts to safely transport framed artwork, mirrors, and large flat items. Guidance on how to move oil paintings and artwork can offer further insights.
• TV Boxes: Custom-fit boxes for flat-screen televisions, often with foam inserts. If the original box is unavailable, a specialist TV box is a sound investment. Tips are available for how to move a large flat-screen TV without a box if a dedicated one cannot be sourced.
• Basic Toolkit: A screwdriver set, a spanner, and an adjustable wrench are often needed for disassembling furniture.

Sourcing and Quantity

The quantity of supplies required will vary significantly based on the size of the property and the volume of possessions. A good rule of thumb is to overestimate rather than underestimate, particularly for boxes and tape. Packing supplies can be purchased from removal companies, self-storage facilities, hardware shops, or online retailers. Sometimes, local shops or online community groups may offer used boxes free of charge, though their condition should always be checked for integrity.

Beginning the packing process early allows for a more organised approach and helps to identify any specialist packing requirements. A variety of moving hacks can further assist in making the packing process efficient. Once the move is complete, consider options for what should be done with empty moving boxes.