The Pro's Guide to Packing Materials and Moving Tools
Moving can be a complex process, but with the right packing materials, you can ensure your belongings arrive safely at your new destination. At Big Boy Movers, we've helped countless customers throughout Utah, Idaho, and the western United States to protect their valuables during residential and commercial moves. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the various packing materials available, their uses, relative costs, and how to obtain them.
Packing Materials
Cardboard Boxes
Cardboard boxes are the foundation of any successful move. They come in various sizes, shapes, and qualities to accommodate different items.
Types of Cardboard Boxes
- Small Boxes: Ideal for heavy items like books, canned goods, and small appliances. Their compact size prevents overloading and subsequent box failure.
- Medium Boxes: Perfect for kitchenware, toys, decorative items, and small electronics.
- Large Boxes: Best suited for lightweight, bulky items such as pillows, bedding, and clothing.
- Wardrobe Boxes: Feature a metal hanging bar that allows clothing to remain on hangers during the move.
- Dish Pack Boxes: Extra sturdy with double-wall construction, designed specifically for fragile items.
- Picture/Mirror Boxes: Thin boxes that can be adjusted to fit artwork and mirrors of various sizes.
- TV/Electronics Boxes: Specially designed with added protection for valuable electronics.
Box Quality
Boxes typically come in different grades -
- Standard/Light Duty: Suitable for lighter items and short moves
- Heavy Duty: Reinforced for heavier items and longer-distance moves
- Double-Wall: Extra protection for fragile or valuable items
Cost & Acquisition
Cardboard boxes fall into the moderate cost range. While not the cheapest packing material, they're an essential investment. You can:
- Purchase new boxes from moving supply stores, home improvement centers, or directly from moving companies
- Find used boxes from grocery stores, liquor stores, or online marketplaces (often free or reduced cost)
- Return unused boxes to some moving companies for partial refunds
- Buy in bulk for significant discounts on larger moves
Packing Paper
Packing paper is an excellent choice for wrapping items.
Uses
- Wrapping dishes, glassware, and other fragile items
- Filling empty spaces in boxes to prevent shifting
- Creating cushioning layers between packed items
- Wrapping items that might be damaged by bubble wrap or plastic materials
Cost & Acquisition
Packing paper is inexpensive compared to other packing materials. It's typically sold by weight (pound) or by the sheet count. You can:
- Purchase from moving supply companies, shipping stores, or online retailers
- Use clean, non-glossy newspaper as a budget alternative (though be aware of ink transfer)
- Buy in bulk for better value on larger moves
Bubble Wrap
Bubble wrap provides excellent protection for fragile items with its air-filled cushioning.
Types
- Standard Bubble Wrap: Available in different bubble sizes for varying levels of protection
- Anti-static Bubble Wrap: Designed for electronics to prevent static damage
- Bubble Wrap Pouches/Envelopes: Pre-made pouches ideal for small fragile items
Cost & Acquisition
Bubble wrap falls into the moderate to higher-cost range of packing materials. It's available from:
- Moving supply stores and shipping centers
- Office supply stores
- Online retailers
- Sometimes available used from businesses that receive regular shipments
Packing Peanuts
These lightweight foam pieces fill empty spaces in boxes to keep items from shifting during transit.
Types
- Traditional Styrofoam Peanuts: Provide good cushioning but aren't environmentally friendly
- Biodegradable Peanuts: Made from plant-based materials that dissolve in water
- Anti-static Peanuts: Ideal for packing electronics
Cost & Acquisition
Packing peanuts are moderately priced but can become expensive for large moves. You can:
- Purchase from shipping centers and moving supply stores
- Reuse peanuts from packages you receive
- Consider alternatives if environmental impact is a concern
Cling Wrap
This clingy plastic film secures items together and protects surfaces from scratches, dust, and moisture.
Uses
- Bundling items together (like table legs)
- Securing drawers and cabinet doors closed during transport
- Wrapping furniture to protect from scratches and dirt
- Creating a moisture barrier for sensitive items
Cost & Acquisition
Stretch wrap is relatively inexpensive and provides excellent value. Available from:
- Moving supply stores
- Home improvement centers
- Online retailers
- Available in hand-roll or commercial dispenser formats
Foam Wrap
Foam wrap provides cushioning and protection for delicate and fragile items.
Types
- Foam Sheets: Flexible sheets ideal for wrapping electronics and flat fragile items
- Foam Pouches: Pre-made pouches for small, breakable items
- Foam Corners: Specially designed to protect furniture corners and edges
Cost & Acquisition
Foam wrap is on the higher end of packing material costs but offers superior protection. Available from:
- Moving supply companies
- Specialty packaging suppliers
- Online retailers
Moving Blankets
Moving blankets are heavy-duty padded covers that protect furniture during transport.
Types
- Standard Moving Blankets: General purpose protection
- Premium Quilted Pads: Heavier and more durable for valuable furniture
- Furniture Pads: Specifically designed for particular furniture shapes
Cost & Acquisition
Moving blankets represent a higher investment but are often available for rent. You can:
- Purchase from moving supply stores (higher cost)
- Rent from moving companies (more economical for one-time moves)
- Buy used blankets at reduced prices
- Use your own blankets and comforters as a budget alternative (though they may be damaged)
Straps and Securing Materials
Securing furniture, large pieces, drawers, and the like with straps will keep them from moving in transit.
Types
- Ratchet Straps: Heavy-duty straps with tensioning mechanisms
- Bungee Cords: Elastic cords with hooks for lighter securing needs
- Rope and Twine: Versatile options for various securing requirements
- Furniture Straps: Specialized straps for moving heavy furniture
Cost & Acquisition
Straps vary in cost depending on quality and type. They're available from:
- Moving supply stores
- Hardware stores
- Auto supply stores
- Often rentable with moving trucks
Moving Tools
The right tools make moving heavy items safer and more efficient.
Essential Moving Tools
- Furniture Dollies: Wheeled platforms for moving heavy items
- Appliance Dollies: Specialized dollies with straps for large appliances
- Lifting Straps: Ergonomic straps that make lifting heavy items easier
- Stair Rollers: Specialized tools for moving items up and down stairs
- Moving Sliders: Plastic or felt discs that help slide furniture across floors
Cost & Acquisition
Tools like these represent a higher investment in your move but significantly reduce the risk of injury and make moving easier. Most people opt to:
- Rent from moving companies or equipment rental stores
- Borrow from friends who have recently moved
- Purchase if you move frequently
Choosing the Right Materials for Your Move
Every move is unique, and the packing materials you'll need depend on several factors.
- Distance of your move
- Value and fragility of your belongings
- Budget constraints
- Storage requirements
Big Boy Movers is happy to help you determine exactly what materials will best suit your specific moving needs. Our experts can provide personalized recommendations based on your inventory and requirements.
Need Help With Your Move? | Customized Moving Services
Big Boy Movers provides both customized and full residential and commercial moving services throughout Utah, Idaho, and the rest of the western United States. We also happily offer our expertise to ensure your belongings arrive safely.
Contact us here or call our toll-free number at 877-70-MOVER to discuss your upcoming move and get expert advice on the best packing materials for your situation.