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Moving Supplies for a Move

The Right Moving Supplies Makes All the Difference

Moving with the wrong materials—like plastic bags or newspapers—rarely goes smoothly. Yeah, it doesn't end well. When you use proper supplies, your belongings stay safe and your move is much smoother. Shoreview Moving and Storage has been providing professional moves since 1920 and we know exactly what you need!

What are Essential Moving Supplies?

Boxes That Actually Hold Up

Don’t assume every box is up for the job! It’s smart to have heavy-duty boxes in multiple sizes, for example:

  • Small boxes (perfect for books and heavy items) This is typically a 1”x1”x24” box.
  • Medium boxes (ideal for most household goods) This is 2 ft x 2 ft.
  • Large boxes (great for linens, pillows, and light items)
  • Wardrobe boxes (move clothes on their hangers)
  • Dish packs (specially designed for kitchenware)

No one’s saying you have to buy everything new, simply suggesting that they should meet the criteria provided above.

North American Van Lines cardboard box sitting on ground in front of truck

Stack of cardboard boxes, bubble wrap, packing peanuts, and other protective shipping supplies

Protective Packing Materials

Keep your items protected with:

  • Bubble wrap (for fragile items)
  • Packing paper (won’t stain like newsprint)
  • Furniture pads or moving blankets (prevent scratches and damage)
  • Mattress bags (keep your bed clean during the move)
  • Stretch wrap (secure drawers and bundle items together)
  • Bungee, ratchet, and/or tie-down straps for things you might move yourself

It is way too easy to cut corners and skimp on proper packing material just to regret it later.


Sealing & Labeling Products & Tools

Skip the duct tape, you need packing tape, which is for, ahem, packing. 

  • Heavy-duty packing tape (don't skimp here!)
  • Tape dispensers (trust us, your teeth and sanity will be grateful)
  • Permanent markers (for labeling boxes)
  • Pre-printed labels or stickers (for room identification)
  • Pre-printed fragile labels or big red markers!
Close-up of packing box being taped shut

Mover's dolly with boxes

Moving Tools & Helpful Accessories

Here are some things that will make moving much easier. 

  • A dolly cart will save a lot of back aches and hassle
  • Furniture sliders can be very helpful
  • Bungies and ratchet straps often come in handy
  • Visqueen or tarps are important if you’re DIY moving with pickup trucks or open trailers
  • Box cutters will be important to have when you start unpacking

Tips for Money-Saving Packing

If you’re on a budget, consider:

  • Pick up sturdy used boxes from local retailers
  • Repurpose soft household items for cushioning breakables
  • Collect old papers ahead of time for extra padding
  • Ask friends who recently moved if they have supplies to pass on

 

No Time to Track Down Supplies for Your Upcoming Move?

Get A Free Packing Quote from Shoreview Moving and Storage, Including supplies to make your move as smooth as possible.