A List of Suggested Moving Supplies for an Easier & Safer Transportation of Your Belongings

The Right Moving Supplies Makes All the Difference

Ever tried to move using grocery bags and old newspapers? Yeah, it doesn’t end well. The right supplies not only protect your stuff but also make the whole process way easier. As professional movers with over 50 years of experience, we know exactly what you need!

What are the Essential Moving Supplies

Boxes That Actually Hold Up

Not all boxes are created equal! You want sturdy boxes in various sizes, like:

Small boxes (perfect for books and heavy items) This is typically a 1x1x24 box.
Medium boxes (ideal for most household goods) This is two foot by two foot.
Large boxes (great for linens, pillows, and light items)
Wardrobe boxes (move clothes without taking them off hangers)
Dish packs (specially designed for kitchenware)

We’re not suggesting you can’t repurpose free used boxes, simply recommending that they meet the criteria provided above.

Protective Packing Materials

Keep your belongings safe with:

Bubble wrap (for fragile items)
Packing paper (cleaner than newspaper and won’t leave ink marks)
Furniture pads AKA moving blankets (prevent scratches and damage)
Mattress bags (keep your bed clean during the move)
Stretch wrap (secure drawers and bundle items together)
Bungee, ratchet, and/or tie-down straps for things you might move yourself

It’s far too easy to try to skimp on proper packing material only to later regret not having more.

What Our Business Clients Say

"We needed to move our entire office over a weekend to minimize disruption. The Starving Students team was professional, efficient, and had us ready to open Monday morning in our new location. I highly recommend them for any business move." - Greg W.

Sealing & Labeling Products & Tools

Leave the duct tape for duct work, you want packing tape, which is for, ahem, packing:

Heavy-duty packing tape (don’t skimp here!)
Tape dispensers (save your teeth and sanity)
Permanent markers (for labeling boxes)
Pre-printed labels or stickers (for room identification)
Pre-printed fragile labels or big red markers!

Moving Tools & Helpful Accessories

Here are a few things that just make moving a bit easier.

A dolly cart will save a lot of back aches and hassle
Furniture sliders can be very helpful
Bungies and ratchet straps often come in handy
Visqueen or tarps are important if you’re DIY moving with pickup trucks or open trailers
Box cutters will be important to have when you start unpacking

Money-Saving Packing for a Move Tips

If you’re on a budget, consider:

Check grocery stores and liquor stores for free boxes
Use towels, stuffed animals, toilet paper rolls, paper towel rolls, and clothing as padding for fragile items
Save newspapers for weeks before moving to use as packing material
Ask friends who recently moved if they have supplies to pass on

Don’t forget to check out our Moving Tips and the Step-by-Step Moving Checklist by Movers to make your move even smoother.