Whenever it is time to move, there are many different things that need to be planned, organized, and coordinated. One of the things that should be on your list is moving supplies. Having the right type and amount of moving supplies will make your moving day, as well as the days leading up to moving day, a much smoother event. On your list of moving supplies, there should be three main items: boxes, wrap, and tape.

Boxes

Boxes are the main way that you will move your items from one place to the next. When choosing boxes there are a few things to consider. The first is the size. While it might be tempting to get all large boxes and cram as much as you can inside, this can actually be counterproductive. You need to have boxes that will fit your items, but also ones that you, or your professional movers, will be able to lift and carry. Your heavier items (such as books) should go in smaller boxes so that they remain manageable.

You also want to make sure that your boxes are of high enough quality that they won’t fall apart as you move. The thicker the box, the more stable and durable it will be. If you have any boxes made out of thin cardboard, make sure that you only place light (and non-breakable) items inside.

There are many places that you can get boxes. You can purchase them from a store or from a professional moving company. There are also many places where you can find free boxes, including craigslist, your local grocery store, and bookstores. U-Haul also has a message board that allows you to search for free boxes according to your location.

Wrap

“Wrap” includes all the things that you use to protect or cover your items. This includes blankets, cloths, newspapers, and bubble wrap. Wrapping your delicate or fragile items is the best way to ensure that they are not damaged during your move. 

While professional moving wrap material and bubble wrap can be purchased, you can also use your daily newspaper, old clothes, towels, and blankets to wrap around your fragile materials.

Tape

Once your boxes are packed, it’s important that they are securely closed. This is especially important for boxes that contain a lot of items, as well as boxes that have your fragile items. Taping your boxes closed will ensure that nothing falls out of (or in) your boxes.

The best way to do this is with tape. Clear packaging tape is the best (and most secure) choice that you can use while you are moving, though duct tape can also work.