Moving house can be super exciting. But as anyone who’s moved home will tell you, it can also be stressful. That’s why it’s so important to do everything you can to prepare for the move – including getting packing materials for moving house in advance.
We’ve got you covered, whether you’re moving your things into storage or directly to your new location. Keep reading to find out which packing materials you need to get your hands on before the big day and how Storage X can help things run smoothly.
1. Packing boxes
Cardboard boxes should be at the top of your external packing supplies list.
Corrugated moving boxes are stronger than regular ones and are perfect for transporting heavy books, electronics and some fragile items. You can even buy speciality packing boxes, such as wardrobe boxes for clothes, mirror boxes and dish boxes for your crockery.
Packing boxes cost: ~£3 per box (dependent on size)
Where to buy packing boxes: High street stores such as Argos and B&Q, and various online retailers.
2. Packing paper
Packing paper is much more environmentally friendly than packing plastic. It acts as a protective layer for your things: you can use it to wrap fragile items and ball it up to protect your boxed goods from the impact of vibrations when on the move.
Be sure to purchase ink-free packing paper (acid-free for antiques and collectables).
Packing paper cost: ~£15 per roll
Where to buy packing paper: High street stores such as Ryman Stationery, Staples, and various online retailers.
3. Bubble wrap
Bubble wrap is ideal for wrapping fragile items because it absorbs impact, and you can also use it to line your packing boxes. Remember: the air bubbles should face your items. There are many eco-friendly alternatives to single-use bubble wrap, including hive wrap, shredded paper, paper bubble wrap and loose fill chips.
Bubble wrap cost: ~£15 per roll
Where to buy bubble wrap: Hardware stores such as Screwfix, some supermarkets and various online retailers.
4. Moving blankets
Moving blankets – which provide cushioning for household items – are a must-have if you’re transporting breakables. They’re also another alternative to bubble wrap. You can buy moving blankets or hire them from your removals company.
(Or you can save money and cut waste by using thick blankets you already own.)
Moving blankets cost: ~£15 per blanket (dependent on size)
Where to buy moving blankets: Homebase and various online retailers.
5. Packing tape
Don’t forget the tape! And we don’t mean sellotape. To ensure that your items stay snug inside their allotted packing boxes, you’ll need to secure each box using durable or heavy-duty packing tape. It’s a good idea to stock up on a few rolls so you don’t run out.
You can always donate any leftover packing tape to a friend who’s moving too!
Packing tape cost: ~£3 per roll
Where to buy packing tape: High street stores such as Toolstation, WH Smith, and various online retailers.
6. Packing labels
Labelling your boxes with what’s inside is a no-brainer.
It’ll make the unpacking process flow more smoothly because you’ll know exactly what needs to go where. You could go a step further and use different colours for different rooms. Alternatively, go label-free and write directly onto the box in a permanent marker.
Packing material cost: ~£10 per pack (dependent on size)
Where to buy packing material: Various stationers and online retailers.
7. Furniture covers
You can buy furniture covers for mattresses, sofas, chairs and other items. Pads that prevent furniture from getting scratched during the move are also available. Just pop the cover over your item and tape it up so it doesn’t slip off.
Furniture cover cost: ~£10 per cover (depending on size and material)
Where to buy furniture covers: Storage retailers and various online retailers.
8. Shipping box and pallet
Are you moving to another country?
If so, there are packing materials specially designed for shipping items. Double or triple corrugated boxes provide items with added protection when in transit. You can load boxes onto wooden pallets for shipment and secure them using the following materials:
- Foam cushioning
- Blocking
- Bracing Layer pads
- Edge boards
- Bands
- Stretch wrap
The cost depends on how many boxes/pallets are being shipped.
Don’t forget these packing hacks…
Aside from the packing materials, we suggest keeping some cleaning products close by. After all, you might want to wipe or dust items as you pack them – especially if they haven’t been moved in a while! If you’re moving things yourself, you should keep a toolbox, in case you need to dismantle something before it goes in the van.
Let Storage X pack, store and deliver your belongings
Did you know that Storage X can pack and store your items for you?
Unlike many other big names in removals and storage, Storage X has an add-on packing service. We use high-quality packing materials to keep your stuff snug and secure on its journey to one of our storage units – and then onwards to its next destination.
Getting a professional service to pack your items for you can be way more convenient if you move your belongings into a storage facility. It can also make the moving process hassle-free if you have a big property, lots of items or are moving abroad. Or, of course, if you just don’t have much time!
There’s no need to hire a van – we’ll pick up and pack your items for you and move them into our highly secure storage unit. Long-term and short-term options are available, and we’ll deliver your items within three working days when you’re ready to be reunited!