Moving requires more than just boxes and tape – it also takes planning and the right materials to protect your things properly. Whether you’re relocating across town or to another state, having the correct moving supplies on hand makes everything easier.
You can find moving supplies in lots of places – supermarkets, bookstores, hardware stores, or even online platforms where people give away boxes for free. For packing paper and tape, check out local moving supplies shops or moving centers, but make sure your materials are safe for fragile items (if you move any). To save money, try wrapping breakables in clothes or towels.
If you’re hiring a moving company (like us), we often provide materials such as moving blankets, mattress bags, and padding – so you don’t have to worry about moving supplies list. It’s one less thing to stress over.
The first thing in your moving supplies checklist should be boxes. There’s no magic number when it comes to how many boxes you’ll need for a move – it all depends on your home and packing habits. But to give you a rough idea, a typical three-bedroom home may require 70 to 150 boxes. These six factors can help you estimate:
A pro tip – it’s always better to overestimate supplies for moving and have more boxes than you actually need than be running around looking for extra boxes later.
Not all moving boxes are created equal. Depending on what you’re packing, different types of boxes will make your move smoother, safer, and more organized. Choosing the right box for the right item makes packing easier. Let’s take a quick look at the most common types you might need for your moving items checklist.
Small moving boxes are great for packing heavier or delicate items in manageable portions. They work especially well for things like books, kitchen tools, canned goods, or single fragile pieces like collectibles or glassware. Because they’re easy to lift and stack, small boxes help with organization.
Medium moving boxes are the most versatile option, perfect for packing everyday items like small kitchen appliances, clothing, electronics, and decor. They’re also commonly used with dish or glass pack kits, which come with dividers or foam inserts to safely separate fragile items like plates, bowls, and glassware. These boxes offer a very good balance between capacity and weight, making them easier to carry while still holding a decent amount of belongings.
Large moving boxes are best suited for soft, lightweight belongings that take up space but don’t weigh much. They’re ideal for items like bedding, lampshades, coats, and bulkier clothing. Because these boxes can get heavy quickly if overpacked, it’s important to avoid filling them with dense or fragile items. Use them to keep bulky but light materials in place.
Heavy-duty boxes are built with extra-thick walls, making them perfect for items that need more protection during transport. They’re very useful for packing heavier or more delicate belongings like electronics, dishware, and large sets of books. Their sturdiness helps prevent crushing or tearing, even under heavy weight. If you’re moving valuables that could easily be damaged, these sturdy boxes are a reliable choice.
Now that you’ve got the right boxes picked out, it’s time to think about what holds them together – tape. No matter how sturdy your boxes are, they won’t stay closed or secure without the right kind of tape. Using the wrong tape can lead to busted seams, ripped bottoms, or worse – damaged belongings. Tape is quite important among packing essentials for moving.
Packing tape is the go-to option for sealing moving boxes. It’s strong, sticks well to cardboard, and holds up during long moves. It’s very easy to use and won’t peel off unexpectedly like lighter tapes might. Also, do not use masking tape – it’s too thin and tears easily. Stick with packing tape, especially if your boxes will be stacked or shifted. A solid roll of packing tape can make a big difference in keeping everything ready for move.
Shipping tape is a solid backup if you don’t have packing tape available for whatever reason. It’s strong enough to hold most boxes closed and works well for sealing lightweight to medium-weight packages. It is slightly thinner than heavy-duty packing tape, but it still provides reliable adhesion and is easy to use with a dispenser. Just make sure the surface is clean before applying, so it sticks properly.
Painter’s tape isn’t for sealing boxes, but it’s surprisingly useful for packing items. You can use it to mark out furniture dimensions on the floor and see how pieces will fit in your new home before the heavy lifting starts. It’s also handy for labeling cables, cords, or electronics without leaving any sticky residue. All in all, good for labeling and organizing things, but do not use it like you would use a packing tape. It’s not going to end well.
Protecting your home and belongings during a move is just as important as packing efficiently. Use materials like bubble wrap or unprinted newsprint to protect delicate items from bumps and shocks. Stretch plastic wrap is great for securing cords, drawers, or cushions while keeping dust and scratches at bay.
For heavier items like furniture or appliances, furniture pads can help prevent damage. Don’t forget to protect your floors, too – plastic tarps or cardboard sheets help avoid scuffs and dirt.
Besides boxes and packing materials, there are a few other things needed for moving that can make your move easier. Permanent markers help label boxes, so you know exactly where everything goes. Tools like scissors, box cutters, and tape guns save time and effort while sealing or opening boxes. Keep small parts, screws, and cords sorted in zip-top baggies to avoid losing them. A toolbox with basic tools will come in handy when it’s time to disassemble or reassemble furniture and electronics. While not necessary, these essential moving supplies do make your move easier.
Hiring RiverHills Moving means getting more than just transportation – it means we handle everything from start to finish to make your move as stress-free as it gets. Our professional team offers reliable moving services based on your needs, whether you’re relocating across town or across the country. As experienced out of state movers, we handle long distances with precision.
We also specialize in commercial moving, senior moving, and apartment moving, making sure each move is smooth all the way from start to finish. Our local moving services are perfect for quick transitions, and our expert furniture packing services make sure your items arrive safely.
Let us handle the hard work – you just focus on settling into your new home.
It’s best to book a moving company at least 4–8 weeks in advance, especially during peak moving seasons like summer. Early booking ensures better availability, lower prices, and time to compare multiple movers to find the best option.
Avoid any company that won’t provide a written estimate. Legitimate movers offer either binding or non-binding estimates in writing. Without one, you risk unexpected charges. Always insist on a detailed estimate before signing any contract.
For interstate moves, moving companies must have a U.S. DOT number registered with the FMCSA. Local movers are typically licensed at the state level. Always verify their credentials and ask for proof of insurance to protect your belongings.
Read customer reviews on platforms like Google and Yelp, check for complaints with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and confirm their licensing and insurance. You can also ask for references from past customers to get direct feedback on their service.
Audrey Williams is the co-owner of RiverHills Moving, alongside her husband, Jackson Williams. With four years of marketing experience, Audrey specializes in promoting their company and building its presence. She is passionate about working for their family business and finds great fulfillment in seeing its growth positively impact others. Audrey’s dedication and drive come from her commitment to helping their business thrive and serve the community.
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