Packing and Moving Supplies List: The Essentials To Have on Hand

Moving in the near future? It’s never too early to start stocking up on all the essential moving supplies. In the thick of it, you’re likely to be focused on getting the job done, so why not give yourself the gift of having everything you need to pack up and get moving on hand and ready to grab? I’ve moved over 25 times, and I will never move without the following must-have packing and moving supplies lists. So take note, use this as a moving supplies list when you go shopping, and most importantly, have fun by listening to your favorite playlist along the way. Moving is a lot easier when you’re prepared, and getting the right moving supplies is the first step. 

It’s important to note, however, that this is by no means an exhaustive moving supplies list — I’ve left out a few items like cleaning supplies. And while there are a few optional things you need for moving, most are absolutely essential to get it done right. If you’re hiring traditional movers or hourly help, you should find out exactly what they include and what you need to get yourself. For example, if you’re just getting help with the loading, then you’ll need all your own packing supplies, plus you should ask about other items like stretch wrap and tie-down straps to protect furniture. Don’t leave anything about moving day to chance. 

Now, I’ve divided the things you’ll need for moving into two categories:

1. Packing essentials for moving
2. Moving supplies you’ll need on the big day

Okay, let’s get rolling.

Remember: You want a variety of box sizes, so the heavier items (like books) can go in the small ones, and lighter stuff (like clothes) can go in the larger ones.

Packing Supplies List Before Moving Day

Boxes

When it comes to moving must-haves, boxes may seem like a no-brainer. But while it may be okay to score free boxes for lighter-weight items, just know that all boxes are not created equal — size, strength, and sturdiness make a difference. You want a variety of box sizes, so the heavier items like books can go in the smaller boxes and lighter stuff like clothes can go in medium and large boxes. And you definitely don’t want boxes that are going to fall apart. Also think about if you need any specialty boxes, like flat-screen TV boxes and dish set boxes.

Q: How do you box things for moving? A: A good rule of thumb is to use larger boxes for lighter items and smaller boxes for heavier items. Put the most weight at the bottom of your box, and fill in any gaps with packing paper, towels, linens, clothing, or another lightweight item. Using as much box space as you can will help prevent damage during transit.

Did you know you can get moving supply kits? They’re great for simplifying things and ensuring you have everything necessary for a smooth move.
(Source: Karolina Grabowska via Pexels)

How Many Boxes Will You Need for Your Move?

Your moving supplies checklist should include not just moving boxes but how many you’ll need for your move. To give you a better idea of the quantity you’ll need, our breakdown below offers some general guidelines based on household size. Keep in mind that the number of boxes you’d need for a 3-bedroom, 1,200-square-foot house would be vastly different from a 3-bedroom, 2,200-square-foot house. And when it comes to how many of each size you’ll need, it really comes down to the specific items you own. Someone who owns a lot of trinkets or books will need a greater number of smaller boxes than someone who has a sprawling T-shirt collection. You can also consider getting a moving supply kit, which simplifies things by giving you an assortment of boxes and other essential supplies.

Insider Tip: What not to pack in boxes when moving? That includes the usual suspects — things like ammunition, explosives, flammables, and your household pets. What you may not think of, though, is all those valuables and irreplaceable items that you want to ensure don’t get lost in the shuffle. (Even better, add a valuables list to your overall moving supplies list, so things aren’t forgotten!) Also, it’s a good idea to stay away from packing anything perishable — no matter how short the travel time is. Even if you think those food items can make it to your new home without going bad, they’re a welcome invitation for other uninvited guests, too: pests!

Estimated # of Boxes Needed By Household Size

Studio Apartment

• Small (16 x 10 x 10): 6
• Medium (18 x 14 x 12): 12
• Large (20 x 20 x 15): 2
• Total # of boxes: 20

1-Bedroom Apartment

• Small (16 x 10 x 10): 8
• Medium (18 x 14 x 12): 20
• Large (20 x 20 x 15): 4
• Total # of boxes: 32

2-Bedroom Apartment

• Small (16 x 10 x 10): 14
• Medium (18 x 14 x 12): 30
• Large (20 x 20 x 15): 6
• Total # of boxes: 50

3-Bedroom House (With Garage)

• Small (16 x 10 x 10): 26
• Medium (18 x 14 x 12): 54
• Large (20 x 20 x 15): 12
• Total # of boxes: 92

4-Bedroom House (With Garage)

• Small (16 x 10 x 10): 40
• Medium (18 x 14 x 12): 70
• Large (20 x 20 x 15): 16
• Total # of boxes: 126

Stocking up on newspapers, mailer sheets, and even box fillers from deliveries can make the overall packing process a breeze — and it will help you save money along the way!
(Source: Cottonbro via Pexels)

Q: What are the best moving supplies for packing? A: The best materials you can have on hand are: packing paper, bubble cushioning roll, moving blankets, and stretch wrap. They’re perfect for keeping your items safe, clean, and damage-free throughout your entire move. Some of them can even be saved and reused, or recycled if they’re unusable after your move.

Extra Rolls of Packing Tape

Here’s the thing: You almost always need more packing tape than you think, so stock up! And make sure it’s the good stuff. The cheaper tape may seem like a good deal, but you’ll have to use way more of it, and it still won’t be as reliable. 

Short on time? Get moving supplies and kits delivered right to your door with fast, free shipping.

Scissors

Make sure to always have a sturdy and sharp pair of scissors at the ready when you’re packing and moving. You’ll not only need these to cut tape, but they’ll also be the first thing you reach for when you need to reopen a box (packing mistakes happen, trust me), resize a blanket, or make your own box for a custom item.

Box Cutter or Utility Knife

Okay, so lots of folks skip the box cutter because it can seem redundant when you’ve got a trusty pair of scissors. But that would be a mistake. Box cutters are one of the packing essentials for moving because they can easily slice through boxes like they’re butter. This is key when you’re tired and breaking down your boxes at the end of your move. They’re also great for cutting through thick plastic zip ties, which can break scissors. Here are the best options out there, according to USA Today.

Painter’s tape is like a Swiss Army knife — it’s versatile, so you can use it for other purposes, like labeling boxes or even safely holding together loose items.
(Source: Blue Summit Supplies Store via Amazon.com)

Pro Tip: Want to know how to pack and move efficiently? Know where to start packing when moving. I go with the stuff I use/touch/see the least. The attic, for example, is the perfect place to start. As an added bonus, it’s usually a little easier to get those least-used items out of the way, since they don’t affect your everyday life. After that, I like to move on to anything that’s out of season, like sports equipment/garage stuff and any clothing that I won’t be needing in the near future. From there, I just keep working my way through everything until I get to the point where I need to pack up that separate box or bag of things that I need to have on hand for the first night in my new place.

Heavy-Duty or Flexible Trash Bags

Always buy more trash bags than you think you need because — spoiler alert! — you’re going to want to use these for much more than just trash. Run out of boxes? No problem! Just sub in a trash bag. Don’t want to waste money on boxes for your clothes? Trash bag. Got linens? Trash bag. Random cushions or pillows? You guessed it: trash bag. And, yes, you’re also going to have a ton of trash. 

Pro Tip: Go for the heavy-duty or reinforced flexible trash bags, so you can skip the double-bagging and worries over the bag ripping.

Thick Marker

You won’t know what’s in your boxes unless you’re able to write everything down. Skip the pens and pencils and opt for a thick marker (or a 12 pack, if you lose things easily). How thick? Do the glance test. Make sure you can see what you’ve scrawled on the side of a box just by glancing at it. You don’t really want to go any thinner than a regular-tipped 4-mm permanent marker or any thicker than a 5-mm chiseled-edge marker. 

Pro Tip: To stay organized and avoid misplacing your scissors, marker, and other essential packing tools, pack one room at a time. Even in one room, it’s so, so easy to lose this stuff! When you put your scissors and tools down, always put them in the same place, or in a conspicuous spot, like a window ledge. You can also keep all these tools together in a small, clear box, bowl, or other handy carrier.

Labels and Colored Stickers

While not one of the moving must-haves, some super-organized folks prefer to use labels and colored stickers or dots. Color-coding can be a huge help when you’re moving a large household, as you can place them on every box and non-boxed item to keep track of what belongs in which room. If you’re using multiple moving containers, color-coding can help guide which items go in each container. And the best part? If you’re using help with the heavy lifting, your color-coding could help shave down some serious time, since they won’t have to keep asking you where to put everything. For more about organizing a containerized move, check out these first-hand tips.

To protect the floor, your furniture, and your back, place a heavy item, like a dresser, heavy box, or mattress onto a moving blanket and then pull it across the floor.

Moving Supplies List for Moving Day

Mattress Bag

Mattress bags are sometimes one of the overlooked packing essentials for moving, but they’re inexpensive and effective ways to keep your expensive mattress clean during a move. Do not be fooled into thinking you can transport your mattress without one and keep it clean! Want more guidance? We’ve got extra tips on the best way to move your mattress.

Ratchet Straps or Rope

If you’re loading your own rental truck or moving container, you need to use strong straps or rope to tie down and secure your belongings at regular intervals. This will help keep your stuff in place to prevent damage from shifting inside during the transport process.

Disc Lock

To keep your belongings safe, you’ll need your own lock to secure your rental truck or moving container. A durable disc lock is what the pros recommend. Just make sure you keep the key with you in a safe place where it won’t get lost!

Q: What equipment do I need to move? A: Your moving supplies list should include ratchet straps, rope, a disc lock, and anything on wheels that can help you transport and load items. Two of the best things you can have are a dolly or cart, to move large furniture pieces once they’re outside your home, and a wagon, for moving multiple boxes at once. These are especially great if you live in an apartment and have to walk back and forth from the parking lot or street. Less trips, less hassle!

Add PODS to Your Moving Supplies List

Sure, PODS offers moving supplies, boxes, and — of course — the moving and storage services you need to get from point A to point B, but did you also know that they can recommend packing and loading pros in your area? That’s right! Whether you need a helping hand boxing up your kitchen or are looking for someone to pack up your whole home, they’ll point you in the direction of someone who can get the job done right. Want to make sure your boxes are expertly loaded into your portable moving containers? They can help with that, too!

Ready to take the first step and start collecting your supplies? For more tips on how to save time, money, and unnecessary hassles, check out my best hacks for packing and moving on the PODS Blog.

Alex Keight is a frequent contributor to the PODS Blog who has moved 20+ times because she loves to experience new places.