Being organised and making sure you have everything you need ready to go come moving day will set you up for success. So take a look at our handy checklist to make sure you have all the moving supplies you need in place.
If you’ve booked expert removals, you’ve already taken the first step towards a stress-free move. You may have booked professional packing services too, or be rolling up your sleeves to do it yourself. Either way, be sure to find out exactly what moving supplies your removal company will provide on the day, and what you need to have ready to go.
Packing boxes
The number one moving essential. You’ll definitely need boxes – and plenty of them. They come in a variety of sizes: large boxes for bulky but lightweight items, such as bedding, medium sized boxes for light- to medium-weight items, and smaller ones for heavy and fragile items, or things you want to transport separately. Wardrobe boxes are also useful for clothing.
You can buy packing boxes and other moving supplies from DIY stores, but it’s a good idea to ask your removal company if they can provide them, whether within your quote or for an extra cost. It means you’ll have boxes your expert removers are happy and accustomed to working with, and they can also help you judge how many boxes you will need.
Packing tape
Another moving day essential. You’ll almost certainly need more packing tape than you think, so stock up on plenty. Consider buying stronger duct tape to help secure heavier boxes, too.
Scissors and box cutters
Sharp scissors are needed for easily cutting tape, paper and bubble wrap, while box cutters will save you a lot of time opening boxes at the other end.
Packing paper
As moving supplies go, the importance of packing paper cannot be underestimated. Not only is it used to wrap fragile items, but it helps to pad out boxes and give them stability, too. And beware using newspaper – unless you want your belongings to emerge covered in ink.
Bubble wrap
Another moving day hero, bubble wrap will help to protect your precious belongings as well as adding cushioning to boxes.
Labelling materials
Buy plenty of labels – ideally you will want to add one to every side of each box, so the information can be seen from all directions. You will also need permanent pens and markers that are easy to write with.
Rubbish bags
No matter how much you declutter in advance, there will always be plenty to throw away on the day, so be sure to have a couple of rolls of heavy-duty bin bags handy. They’re useful for transporting bulky items too.
Small plastic bags
Sealable plastic bags come in various sizes and are very useful for grouping small items. Some come with integrated labels for extra ease.
Other important items, such as stretch wrap and blankets to protect furniture, and bungee cords for easy lifting, will usually be provided by your removal company. Check in with them ahead of time to find out exactly what they will bring with them on the day, to avoid any surprises.