When preparing for a move, selecting the right packing materials is crucial for protecting your belongings. Different household items require specific types of protection to ensure they arrive at your new home in the same condition they left. Here’s a guide to the best packing materials for various types of household items.
1. Boxes:
- Standard Moving Boxes: Available in multiple sizes (small, medium, large, extra-large), these are versatile and can be used for a variety of household items. Small boxes are ideal for heavy items like books or tools, while larger boxes are better for lighter items such as bedding or clothing.
- Wardrobe Boxes: These are perfect for hanging clothing. They come with a metal hanging bar at the top, allowing clothes to be moved directly from closet to box without folding.
- Dish Pack Boxes: These are thicker and more durable, designed specifically for fragile items like dishes and glassware.
- Mirror Boxes: These are flat, slim boxes that are adjustable and perfect for packing mirrors, artwork, and frames.
2. Wrapping Materials:
- Bubble Wrap: Ideal for wrapping fragile items to prevent breakage. It’s perfect for dishes, glassware, figurines, and electronics.
- Packing Paper: Plain newsprint is used to wrap items before placing them in boxes. It provides protection without the risk of ink transfer that newspaper can cause.
- Stretch Plastic Wrap: Used to secure drawers and doors on furniture or to bundle items together without sticky residue.
3. Cushioning Materials:
- Packing Peanuts: These are great for filling gaps in boxes to prevent items from shifting during transport.
- Foam Sheets: Provide excellent protection for dishes and glassware, fitting snugly between individual pieces.
4. Protective Covers and Blankets:
- Furniture Pads or Moving Blankets: These are used to cover furniture and appliances, protecting them from scratches, dents, and dirt during the move.
- Mattress Bags: Available in various sizes, these protect your mattress and box spring from dirt, moisture, and damage.
5. Sealing Tape:
- Packing Tape: A strong tape is necessary for sealing boxes securely. Use a tape that is at least two inches wide.
- Labelling Tape: Different coloured tape or labels can help identify the contents of boxes for easier unpacking.
6. Specialty Items:
- Corner Protectors: These can be used to protect the corners of framed art or furniture.
- Custom Crating: For extremely valuable or unusually shaped items, custom wooden crates may be necessary to provide adequate protection.
7. Miscellaneous:
- Tool Kit: Always handy for last-minute furniture disassembly and reassembly at your new home.
- Marker Pens: Essential for labelling boxes with contents and room destination for efficient unpacking.
Using the appropriate packing materials for each type of item not only ensures their safety but can also ease the unpacking process. Investing in quality packing supplies is an investment in the protection of your belongings during a move.
