Moving homes can be a very exciting time–but it can also be a chaotic time. It’s easy to get overwhelmed when packing, especially if you’re a first-time mover. That’s why it’s important to make sure you have these 10-must-have packing and moving supplies before the big day comes to help make the transition to your next adventure as easy as possible.
1. Boxes and Totes
Depending on what’s going inside, you may need a cardboard box or a plastic tote. Cardboard boxes are more uniform in size and can cost the savvy mover nothing when they approach local businesses on their delivery days. Totes, on the other hand, are a sturdier choice and have greater storage reusability (but they can be pricey).
2. Packing Tape
Folding the flaps of cardboard boxes into one another may be a quick fix for a single box, but when you’re loading boxes in and out of trucks and cars where they may be jostled or take a tumble, you’ll want the security of a well-taped box or a reinforced tote.
3. Bubble Wrap and Newspaper
Keep your belongings in the shape they left your old home in by using proper cushioning. While using your own clothes and linens is the most environmental- (and cost-) friendly option, recyclable newspaper and bubble wrap will suffice if you run out.
4. Color-Coded Markers and Labels
A smart mover labels and writes the room where each box should go, like “kitchen,” “bathroom,” or “storage.” A brilliant mover uses color-coded labels and matching markers for even faster and more accurate unloading and unpacking.
5. Blankets
Let your blankets pull double duty by also serving as protection for easily scratched pieces of furniture and electronics, like your antique coffee table or 4K TV. Not only will your belongings be well-protected, but you won’t have to worry about packing the blankets, too–just make sure to wash them before you make the bed!
6. Furniture Pads
Keep your old and new floors scuff-free while moving. A simple set of furniture pads on the legs of your belongings will ensure you don’t lose a deposit or ruin your hardwood floors before you’ve even unpacked.
7. Dolly or Hand Truck
The last thing you need when you’re moving into a new home is to hurt yourself. That box of books may seem like a quick grab, but it’s a lot heavier than it looks. Rent or invest in a dolly to save you—and your back—unnecessary strain.
8. Gloves
Get a better grip on things and prevent painful blisters with an inexpensive pair of moving gloves. When you’re carrying a dresser up a flight of stairs, you’ll be glad you took the time to wear them.
9. Cleaning Supplies
No matter how clean of a home you kept, chances are there will be dust and cobwebs on some of your hard-to-reach belongings. You may be tempted to wait to clean them, but that will just track unnecessary dirt into your new clean home.
10. Tools
A basic tool set is a must when moving. Maybe you can’t fit the fridge through the door without taking off the handles or you want to remove your table’s legs to save space; chances are you’ll need quick access to tools.
Not sure where to get all the moving supplies on your list or ready to find a home for the boxes marked “storage?” Contact the professionals at Secure Self Storage for a one-stop shop for all your packing musts and an affordable, secure, climate-controlled solution to your new home storage needs.