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.
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.
.png)
.png)
.jpg)
