Moving house is an adventure, a fresh start, and an opportunity to reinvent your living space. But let’s be honest—packing up all your belongings can be overwhelming, stressful, and downright exhausting. Fortunately, with a bit of preparation, the right packaging supplies, and some clever tips, you can turn your move from a chaotic mess into an organised, stress-free process. Whether you’re gearing up for a cross-country relocation or just moving across town, these six packaging tips will make your move a breeze!
Get the Right Moving Boxes for the Job
Let’s start with the obvious—moving boxes. But not just any boxes. Investing in high-quality, durable moving boxes and cardboard boxes will save you headaches and avoid last-minute box collapses. You may be tempted to snag used boxes from the grocery store, but these often aren’t sturdy enough for heavy items, or worse, they could be compromised by moisture.
Start by gathering a variety of sizes. Small boxes are great for books and heavy kitchenware, while larger ones are ideal for lightweight but bulkier items like linens or pillows. Cheap Storage Boxes are fantastic for keeping things organised and can also be reused later for storage in your new place. Be strategic about what goes where—keep heavier items in smaller boxes to avoid any backbreaking moves. Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to for quick and easy unpacking later.
Tip:
Consider buying boxes that are designed specifically for moving, such as wardrobe boxes that come with a hanging bar to transfer your clothes directly from closet to box without folding.
Wrap, Don’t Crack: Use Plenty of Bubble Wrap
There’s no such thing as too much bubble wrap when it comes to moving your fragile items. Those wine glasses you love, your grandmother’s china, or that one-of-a-kind vase you found on holiday—ensure they arrive at your new home in one piece. Start by lining the bottom of the box with bubble wrap, and then wrap each individual item in several layers. Place them snugly in the box so they don’t rattle around.
For electronics or artwork, make sure to wrap them well and add extra padding between items to avoid any unwanted surprises upon arrival. While bubble wrap is perfect for protecting breakables, you can also use soft items like towels or sheets as an added cushion layer.
Tip:
If you want to save a few bucks, try using a combination of bubble wrap and old newspaper or magazine pages. Just make sure to cushion the items generously for maximum protection.
Secure with sturdy tape
Tape is an unsung hero in the moving world. A strong adhesive is essential for keeping your boxes securely closed during transit, so be sure to invest in high-quality tape. Don’t skimp on this! Weak tape can peel away, and the last thing you want is a box popping open on moving day, scattering your belongings across the driveway.
Use wide packing tape for sealing boxes, and make sure to tape across the seams—both at the top and bottom. For heavier boxes, reinforce them with an extra layer of tape to keep everything intact.
Tip:
Labelling your tape can also help streamline your process. Some people use different coloured tapes for different rooms, so even before reading the label, you’ll know where a box belongs based on its colour code.
Protect large items with furniture covers
Furniture can be tricky to move, especially when it comes to those larger, awkwardly-shaped items like sofas, armchairs, and mattresses. Without proper protection, they can easily get scratched, dented, or dirtied during the move. Enter: furniture covers.
Furniture covers are inexpensive, come in all shapes and sizes, and are a must for protecting your large, valuable items. They help prevent dirt, moisture, and scuffs from damaging your beloved pieces. For smaller items like dining chairs or side tables, you can also wrap them with moving blankets or old sheets, but for mattresses and sofas, it’s best to invest in fitted furniture covers for total protection.
Tip:
For an eco-friendly twist, look for reusable furniture covers made from durable, washable materials so you can use them again for future moves or storage.
Use Refuse Sacks for Non-Essential Items
When it comes to packing non-fragile items, like shoes, clothes, or soft furnishings, refuse sacks (also known as heavy-duty garbage bags) can be your best friend. They’re easy to pack, flexible, and perfect for squeezed into those awkward gaps in the moving van.
You can also use them for storing items that will go straight into the attic or garage in your new home—things like seasonal decor or extra bedding. Heavy-duty refuse sacks are great because they’re strong enough to hold bulky items without ripping. Just make sure you don’t accidentally throw them out thinking they’re trash!
Tip:
Label your refuse sacks with large, clear tags to distinguish them from actual garbage bags. You’ll want to know what’s packed inside them when you’re unpacking!
Organise with Storage Solutions
Moving is the perfect time to get your home organised from the start. Instead of throwing everything into random boxes and figuring it out later, plan ahead by using cheap storage boxes that can be repurposed after the move. Storage bins with lids are perfect for stashing items like shoes, sports gear, or kids’ toys.
Once you’ve arrived at your new home, these boxes can go straight into closets or storage areas without needing to be unpacked right away. They’re also stackable, making them easy to store, whether in the garage, attic, or cupboard. Trust us—future you will thank you for this level of organisation!
Tip:
Clear plastic storage boxes can be a lifesaver when it comes to finding items quickly. You’ll be able to see what’s inside without opening every box, and they double as long-term storage solutions post-move.
Packing up your life and moving doesn’t have to be a nightmare. By using the right packaging supplies—from moving boxes and bubble wrap to tape, furniture covers, and refuse sacks—you’ll make the process far more manageable and less stressful. And with a little organisation, your move can go off without a hitch, ensuring that everything arrives safely and soundly in your new home. The key is preparation—so stock up on those essential supplies, label your boxes clearly, and start early.
With these six tips, you’ll find yourself unpacked, settled, and enjoying your new home in no time. Happy moving!