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Moving Supplies for an Easy Move (2024 Guide)
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A successful move requires more than cardboard boxes and packing tape. From lifting straps for heavy furniture to a simple utility knife for opening boxes, the right supplies can make the difference between a stress-filled move and an easy transition to your new home. Most times, it’s a good idea to gather them up before you even start packing.
In this guide, we rounded up the must-have moving supplies for an easy move, whether you’re hiring professional movers or going the DIY route.
Boxes are a big part of almost any move—watch the video below to see which ones could be the best option for you.
Basic Packing Supplies
Before considering specialty items, make sure to cover the basics. Here’s the least of what you need:
Furniture and Appliances
If you plan to rent a moving truck and load it yourself, you will need shoulder or forearm lifting straps to help you move furniture and appliances. We also recommend using a back brace for the heavy lifting and renting a hand truck or moving dolly. Most truck rentals don’t include the use of a dolly, so you’ll need to supply your own.
Have a basic tool kit on hand with tools such as Allen wrenches and screwdrivers so you can disassemble large items. Store hardware and small parts in clearly labeled plastic bags or smaller boxes.
Use stretchy plastic wrap to secure any built-in drawers or doors, and employ moving blankets or furniture pads to protect against scratches and dings. Cover mattresses and box springs with a mattress bag to keep them clean. Once your items are in the truck, use tie-down or cargo straps to secure them. You can also stretch bungee cords between tie-down points, but make sure they’re relatively tight.
Cleanup After Moving
On moving day, it’s wise to have a few cleaning supplies and toiletries available. This includes heavy-duty garbage bags, a roll of paper towels, an all-purpose cleaner, hand soap, and a roll of toilet paper. Keep these essentials accessible on both sides of the moving process. You may need more heavy-duty cleaning supplies if your landlord requires move-out cleaning.
Our Conclusion
If your goal is an easy move, we recommend splurging a little on supplies. Investing in heavy-duty boxes, high-quality tape, and ample cushioning materials will keep your belongings safe. You might also decide that specialty packing materials, such as wardrobe boxes and a moving dolly, are worth the extra expense. Alternatively, you can hire a full-service mover to pack your belongings for you.
FAQ About Moving Supplies for an Easy Move
What can I use to make moving easier?
You can use several supplies and techniques to make moving easier, from a comprehensive moving checklist to high-quality packing supplies, specialized boxes, moving apps, and color-coded labels. Hiring professional movers to handle all or part of your move will also make the process easier.
How do you pack your house for a fast move?
To pack your house for a fast move, keep clothes on their hangers and use existing containers and linens in place of moving boxes and packing paper. Purge as much as possible, and enlist the help of friends, family, or professional movers. Spend less time sorting, but label boxes clearly with the room where they belong.
What should I pack first when moving?
Pack items you won’t need before the move first, such as books, fine china, and seasonal decorations. Start with storage areas and rooms you don’t often use, such as guest bedrooms. Pack items you use daily last.
What supplies do I need for a short-distance move?
For a short-distance move, you will still need a few basic supplies, including moving boxes, packing tape, permanent markers, and packing paper or bubble wrap. However, you may be able to skip furniture pads, wardrobe boxes, and other specialty supplies.
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