9 Must Have Packing Supplies You Didn’t Know You Needed
Have we ever found ourselves staring at a mountain of boxes, tape, and half-packed belongings, wondering if we forgot something important? Packing can often feel overwhelming, especially when we’re in the midst of a home sale or a significant life transition. While we may be familiar with the usual packing tape and cardboard boxes, there are other essential supplies that can make our packing experience smoother and less stressful. Let’s look at nine must-have packing supplies that we likely didn’t know we needed.
1. Quality Packing Tape
When we’re preparing to pack, we might only think about grabbing the first roll of tape we find. However, investing in high-quality packing tape can save us from headaches later on. Cheap tape may fail to hold boxes together, risking damage to our belongings.
Instead, we should opt for sturdy packing tape that can withstand various temperatures and humidity levels. Look for tape that is at least 2 inches wide; wider tape provides better adhesion and support for heavier items. Don’t forget to grab a tape dispenser for easier application, especially when we’re in a rush.
2. Bubble Wrap and Packing Paper
While many of us are aware of bubble wrap, we might overlook packing paper, which is just as crucial, if not more so, for protecting fragile items. Bubble wrap is perfect for wrapping delicate glassware or ceramics, but a layer of packing paper inside boxes ensures that everything remains cushioned.
Packing paper can also be used to fill empty spaces in boxes, preventing items from shifting during transport. We can easily find both materials at stores or online, often sold in bulk, which is especially helpful if we have a lot to pack.
3. Furniture Blankets
When we think about packing, it’s easy to forget that our furniture needs protection, too. Furniture blankets, or moving pads, provide cushioning for our larger items during transport. They can prevent scratches, dings, and other damage that can occur when items bump against each other.
If we’re hiring a moving company, they might provide these blankets, but if we’re doing it ourselves, it’s worth purchasing or renting a few. We can wrap sofa arms, table legs, and other vulnerable points to ensure everything arrives at our new place in one piece.
4. Labeling Supplies
Unless we want to play a game of “guess what’s in this box” at our new home, labeling is key. We often think of using a simple black marker, but there are more efficient ways to organize our belongings. Colored labels, for instance, can help us group items by room or prioritize unpacking.
Using a clear labeling system can save us loads of time and energy when we arrive at our new place. We might even consider printed labels for a more professional look. Additionally, including notes like “fragile,” “open first,” or “seasonal items” on the labels can further guide us.
5. Ziplock Bags
We probably all have a stash of Ziplock bags lying around, but they can be incredibly useful for packing. Not only can they hold snacks or smaller items, but they are also perfect for organizing small parts and accessories.
We can use them to store screws, remote controls, and small kitchen gadgets. Labeling these bags ensures we know exactly where everything is when we unpack, preventing the frantic search for that one vital cable or screw.
6. Mattress Bags
When we’re in the midst of packing, it might be easy to overlook our mattresses. However, keeping our mattresses clean and protected during the move is essential. Mattress bags, available at most moving supply stores, are designed to keep dust, dirt, and moisture away from our beds.
Investing in high-quality, heavy-duty mattress bags will protect our investment and ensure a good night’s sleep in our new home. It’s one less thing we need to worry about when moving day arrives.
7. Moving Straps
Moving straps can change the game, especially for larger items. These handy tools help us lift heavy furniture more efficiently and minimize the risk of injury. Instead of straining our backs, we can leverage our body weight and the strength of our arms to lift.
Whether we’re moving appliances or large pieces of furniture, using straps gives us better control and balance, making the process much easier. They can also be easily stored away for our next move, making them a worthwhile investment.
8. Clear Storage Totes
While cardboard boxes are the norm, clear storage totes provide some unique advantages. The transparency allows us to glance inside and see what’s stored, saving time when organizing and retrieving items. Plus, these durable containers are less likely to get damaged in transit.
Although they can be a bit pricier than boxes, investing in a few clear totes for our most-used items can provide long-term benefits. We will thank ourselves later when we can easily find our seasonal clothes or holiday decorations.
9. A Moving Checklist
Finally, one of the most essential supplies isn’t a physical item but rather a comprehensive moving checklist. Not only does this serve as a guide for packing and moving, but it also ensures we don’t forget anything important. From setting utility appointments to addressing change-of-address forms, a checklist allows us to stay organized amidst the chaos.
We can create a digital checklist on our phone or a printed version that we can check off as we go. This simplicity can bring significant peace of mind as we tackle our moving day.
Conclusion
Preparing for a move can feel daunting, but by gathering these specialized packing supplies, we can alleviate much of the stress. From quality packing tape to clear storage totes and a well-crafted checklist, each item plays a role in simplifying our process. With a little planning and the right tools, we can make our home-selling and moving experience smoother and more manageable.
As we prepare to pack up our lives and move on to new adventures, let’s remember that we’re not in it alone. By equipping ourselves with these essential supplies, we can navigate our transition with confidence, ensuring that we cross this milestone with ease and excitement. Whether we’re saying goodbye to a cherished home or stepping forward into a new chapter, let’s make sure we have what we need to begin this journey stress-free.
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