What Are the Necessary Packing Materials for Moving Interstate?

When it comes to packing materials for moving interstate, it’s important to consider both protection and cost efficiency. Some great options include bubble wrap, packing paper, foam peanuts, furniture pads and blankets, sturdy boxes, and suitcases. Using a combination of these materials can ensure that your belongings stay safe during the long-distance move.

Boxes Are the Most Important Packing Materials for Moving

If you don’t plan on getting packing services and letting long-distance movers help you pack your items, then this process will be solely your responsibility – and it begins with gathering supplies. In the first place, there are boxes, the relocation essentials that provide structure and support for your belongings. They help keep your things from shifting around during the move and getting damaged. Additionally, they also make it easier to stack and organize your belongings in the truck or van so that everything fits securely and doesn’t get damaged during your move to another state.

That being said, one of the most important things to consider when choosing boxes for your move is their size and number. You’ll want to make sure you have a variety of sizes on hand so that you can properly pack and protect all of your belongings. For example, note that for heavy and bulky items, such as tools or book stacks, you can utilize smaller ones. The larger ones are used to package lightweight items like pillows, blankets, and bed linens, so they don’t become too heavy to carry.

Once you’ve determined what size boxes you need, it’s time to figure out how many boxes you need – and the exact number depends on your household inventory list. A good rule of thumb is to estimate that each room will require 10-15 boxes. This number will vary depending on whether you’re relocating to a new city alone or with family, how much stuff you have, and their type – but this number is a good starting point.

Consider Buying Specially Designed Boxes

There are a lot of different types of boxes on the market, but not all of them are created equal. Some of them are specially designed for certain kinds of items, such as glasses or clothes – consider getting them to ease the process and keep your belongings safe.

Wardrobe boxes, for example, are specially designed for packing clothes. They come with a hanging rod so that you can transfer your clothes from your closet to the wardrobe box without taking them off the hangers. This is a great option if you have a last-minute move and you’re short on time or if you’re simply trying to avoid wrinkles on your attire. Wardrobe boxes are also taller than standard boxes, so they’re perfect for long dresses or coats.

Dish barrels are another type of special-purpose box. They’re designed for packing fragile items like dishes, glasses, and vases. Dish barrels have reinforced walls and padded bottoms to protect your belongings from breakage. They also have internal dividers so that you can stack your dishes securely.

Where to Find Affordable Boxes?

Relocating to a new city can be quite expensive – there’s the cost of renting a truck or hiring a cross-country moving company, not to mention the cost of the travel and living expenses you’ll meet after the move. One way to save money on relocation costs is to find affordable supplies – including boxes. Here are some relocation tips on where to look for a cheap box and packing supplies:

• Check your storage spaces, such as the garage and attic. Chances are you have some used boxes hidden away for these kinds of situations.
• Reach out to friends and family members who have recently moved. They may still have boxes they’re not using and would be happy to give them to you.
• Check with local businesses, such as restaurants, grocery, and liquor stores. They may have boxes they don’t need anymore.
• Search online for affordable or free used boxes. Websites such as Freecycle can be of great help here.

However, keep in mind that used boxes are not as sturdy as new ones. Therefore, whether you’re getting long-distance moving services or relocating on your own, make sure you use them for storing belongings that are less delicate and breakable.

Are There Any Alternatives for Storing Your Belongings?

Note that boxes are not your only option when you need places to store your belongings! There are plenty of other creative ways to store your stuff – here are some of them that can help you move efficiently:

• Baskets

Baskets are a great alternative to boxes because they come in all shapes and sizes. You can find baskets made out of wicker, bamboo, fabric, plastic, or even metal. And unlike boxes, baskets often have handles, which makes them much easier to carry. Best of all, baskets can be used for storage after your move – just put them on a shelf or in a closet and you’re good to go!

• Luggage

Luggage is another great option for storing your belongings. It’s durable and usually has compartments that make organizing your things a breeze. Plus, most luggage has wheels, which makes transporting it a breeze.

• Duffel bags

Duffel bags are an excellent alternative to boxes because they’re durable and spacious – and they usually have straps that make them easy to carry! Therefore, if you already have some in your home, don’t hesitate to use them.

Which Supplies Should You Pick for Wrapping and Padding?

There are several options to choose from when it comes to wrapping materials for moving.  One option is bubble wrap. It contains air bubbles that will keep even the most fragile of your belongings safe. Besides bubble wrap, you can also use more affordable and eco-friendly materials, such as packing paper.

Note that both of these supplies can be used for padding and filling empty spaces in boxes – you can use them alongside foam peanuts. It may be helpful to use a combination of these two materials for the most secure and protected move. First, wrap your belongings in paper, then add bubble wrap and secure it in place with tape.

While a newspaper may be a readily available option for wrapping, it is not the best choice. The ink on the paper can rub off onto your valuable goods, and the thin material can easily rip or tear. On the other hand, you can also use stretch for some of your items – just keep in mind it provides less protection than bubble wrap and isn’t recommended for items made of wood or leather.

Some Materials Can Be Found in Your Home, as Well

One other way to save money when relocating to a new home is to use materials you already have around your home. With a little creativity, you can find plenty of wrapping materials in your home that will protect your belongings during the interstate move. You can use old sheets and towels as padding, line up storing spaces with cotton clothes, or pack glasses with the help of your socks.

For some additional ingenious tips and tricks you can use when relocating long-distance, take a look at the following video:

Relocation Blankets Are a Must When You Wish to Move Furniture Safely

In addition to mentioning wrapping material, you’ll also need to place getting relocation blankets on your to-do list. They are used to protect your furniture from scratches, dents, and other damage that can occur during the relocation day preparations.

Note that you’ll need to cover all surfaces of your furniture with a blanket – including the top, sides, and any exposed areas such as legs or handles. Be sure to tuck the blanket in so that it doesn’t come loose during the move and remember to secure any loose items such as drawers or doors. Don’t hesitate to use multiple blankets for larger pieces of furniture and appliances.

Don’t Forget About the Equipment You’ll Need for Relocating Heavy Items

Trust us, you don’t want to be caught without the right equipment when it comes time to relocate furniture and other heavy pieces, and a dolly is one of your best options. Dollies make it possible to move large and heavy objects without having to lift them manually – so renting it must not be one of the things you forget to do.

This is not only helpful in terms of saving your back from strain, but it also helps prevent dropping and damaging your belongings. When choosing a dolly, be sure to pick one that is rated for the weight of your items and that has tires that can easily roll over thresholds and onto carpeting. Instead of dollies, you can also use lifting straps – but you’ll usually need help from a friend to carry heavy items with them.

Don’t Forget About Additional Packing Supplies for Moving

In addition to boxes and other supplies mentioned above, when organizing a move, you’re going to need a lot of packing tape. Don’t make the common relocation mistake of choosing cheap tape – get the kind that’s strong and won’t tear easily. You don’t want your boxes coming open in the middle of the move and losing all your stuff.

You’ll also need markers – Sharpies work great – to label your boxes, so make them a part of your relocation checklist. This will save you a ton of time when you’re trying to find things later on down the road. You’ll be glad you put relocation labels on boxes when you’re looking for your toothbrush and it’s buried under a bunch of other boxes. Additionally, you’ll need scissors to help you with all that cutting through paper, bubble wrap, and boxes.

Let Cross-Country Movers Pack Your Things, and Leave the Most Daunting Task to the Professionals

If you’re planning a cross-country move, one of the best decisions you can make is to let the professionals gather the right boxes and packing supplies and pack your belongings. That is a time-consuming and tedious task, and it’s one that’s best left to those with experience. Hiring movers from Seattle to California (or movers from California to Seattle) will save you time and give you peace of mind knowing that your things are being packed securely. So if you’re looking for a stress-free move, be sure to hire packers from a reputable long-distance moving company and let them handle everything for you.