WHAT ARE ESSENTIAL PACKING SUPPLIES?
When preparing for a residential or commercial move, having the right supplies is crucial for ensuring a smooth transition and keeping your belongings safe during transportation. Whether you’re moving down the road or across the province, a few essentials will streamline your move and provide you with peace of mind, knowing your precious items are safe.
Here are some must-haves for any move:
- High-quality boxes in various sizes: These allow you to pack items of different shapes and dimensions without crowding them.
- Sturdy packing tape: This helps you seal your boxes securely and prevents the bottom from falling out when you’re bringing them in and out of your space.
- Bubble wrap/packing paper: When packing anything fragile or precious, cushioning your items with bubble wrap provides an additional layer of protection.
- Furniture pads: These protect your furniture against scratches and also protect your walls and doors from being damaged on the way out.
- Markers/label makers: Clearly organizing and labeling your boxes will make unpacking a breeze and help you settle into your new space more quickly.
- Tools and equipment: Box cutters, Allen keys, and hammers are helpful for disassembling furniture and efficiently unpacking once you’ve arrived. Keeping your toolkit on standby is a great way to stay prepared for the unexpected.
Do Tape Dispensers Make Packing More Efficient?
While packing tape is essential for moving, it can sometimes be troublesome to use. It can quickly become tangled, and searching for the opening to unroll the tape can be frustrating. Manually tearing off tape strips can also result in uneven or crooked tape.
A packing tape dispenser offers a solution. It securely holds your tape in place and allows for easy dispensing. This can significantly speed up your packing process. With a dispenser, you'll spend less time fumbling with tape and more time efficiently securing your belongings. It's a simple tool that can make a big difference in your moving experience.
When Should You Use Furniture Pads and Moving Blankets?
Furniture pads and moving blankets are essential for protecting your belongings during a move. Made from thick materials like cardboard, foam, or heavy-duty fabric, they help cushion items and prevent scratches, dents, or other damage.
For delicate or valuable pieces, you can use furniture pads to create a protective base and wrap the items in moving blankets before securing them with packing tape. Adding bubble wrap provides extra protection.
These materials ensure your belongings arrive safely, which is especially crucial for large or easily damaged items.
Why Should You Label Your Moving Boxes?
Clear and simple labels can make all the difference when unpacking at your new home. Instead of hunting through boxes for essentials, a good labeling system helps you quickly find what you need, keeping your move organized. Labeling by room and adding a few items listed on each box saves time and reduces stress.
What's the Best Way to Label Boxes for Moving?
When labeling moving boxes, keep things simple yet detailed enough to make unpacking a breeze. Use a permanent marker or label maker to write large, clear labels that anyone can read at a glance.
Include the room the box belongs to, a quick description of the contents, and a priority level, like "Kitchen, Essentials, 1," so you know what to unpack first. It helps to also include your name on the label.
Make sure you're labeling the top and at least one side of each box. Adding a color-coding system for different rooms or categories can make things even easier.
This extra effort upfront will save you tons of time and stress when you're settling in.
HOW MANY BOXES WILL YOU NEED FOR A RESIDENTIAL MOVE?
One of the most challenging parts of packing is accurately estimating the number of boxes and packing supplies you’ll need to transport your stuff safely. If you live in a fully furnished apartment and are leaving many big things behind, a dozen moving boxes may be suitable. However, larger homes often require many boxes and specialty containers.
Before buying boxes, make sure you declutter your belongings and make up your mind about what you’re bringing with you to your new home. For one person, moving out of a home can often be accomplished with fewer than 30 boxes. However, multi-bedroom and family homes may require upwards of 50 boxes, depending on how long you’ve lived there and how much you’re moving.
Try to assess your belongings ahead of time so you’ll have a clear idea of how many boxes and bags you’ll need.
HOW DO YOU PREPARE FOR YOUR MOVE?
When carefully planned and organized, moving into a new house or relocating to a new office space can be seamless and stress-free. It’s no secret that moving can be extremely overwhelming. However, when you take proactive steps to prepare for the move, the experience will be a breeze.
Whether you’re leading up to a residential or commercial move, we recommend following these steps to get organized:
- Prepare as early as possible: Create a comprehensive checklist and timeline leading up to your move, ideally around six to eight weeks before your moving date.
- Declutter: Once your moving date is established, try to declutter your space by going through your storage and non-essential items and deciding what you need to bring with you. Sell, donate, or recycle any items that are taking up space unnecessarily.
- Partner with a reputable moving company: Hiring professional movers to do the heavy lifting is one of the best ways to facilitate a large-scale move.
- Notify parties of your address change: From your employer to your bank to your subscription services, it’s important to notify related parties that you’ll be changing addresses.
GETTING ORGANIZED FOR A RESIDENTIAL MOVE
When you’re in the early stages of preparing for your residential move, getting organized can ensure you don’t leave anything behind, your mail is forwarded to your new address, and you aren’t waiting weeks for electricity or internet. We recommend getting a binder or digital planner to keep track of all your important documents and belongings and developing a coherent packing strategy.
Going room-by-room, evaluate how much stuff you have and determine what you’ll bring. Starting with the least frequented areas of your home, organize items and flag things you’ll need help with, like heavy furniture or fragile belongings. Having every room organized before you begin packing will make the process quicker and easier.
WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO PACK FRAGILE ITEMS?
Every homeowner’s biggest fear during moving is damaging precious, fragile items while packing and transporting them. When packing fragile items, using proper techniques and best practices is crucial. Once you’ve secured your packing supplies, you can carefully wrap your items with bubble wrap.
Before packing, assemble your boxes with tape and verify how much weight they can hold without the bottom giving out. Line the bottom of the box with cushioning before placing heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones on top, and then fill the empty space with packing peanuts or crumpled paper. Clearly label your boxes as “fragile” and indicate which side of the box should be kept upright.
How to Choose the Right Packing Materials
When preparing for a local or long-distance move, selecting the appropriate packing supplies is crucial to ensure the safety and security of your belongings throughout the journey. Even if you're only embarking on a short journey, a bumpy road or tight hallways put family heirlooms, office equipment, and other valuables at risk of damage. With the proper wraps, tapes, and boxes, you don't have to worry about minor mishaps that can lead to scuffs, scratches, or breakage.
Here's a guide to help you choose the right supplies:
- Assess the nature of your belongings, especially fragile items.
- Evaluate the size and weight of items to ensure proper support.
- Take into account climate conditions for insulation and protection.
There are questions you should ask yourself during the planning stages of your move, too, such as:
- How many items do I need to pack?
- What is my budget for packing supplies?
- Are there any specific requirements or regulations from the moving company?
Yellowknife’s only source of reusable plastic tubs!! (The Best Boxes)
Dimension: 24” X 20” X 12” Volume: 70 litres (2.4 Cubic Feet)
Not everyone needs to hold on to their packing supplies after they conclude their relocation. Some people might want to discard their boxes or tubs immediately. If you're one of those people, we have a solution for you. Through our moving company, you can rent plastic tubs for manageable rates.
Best Movers's Rental Boxes and Tubs
Our plastic tubs, with dimensions of 24" X 20" X 12" and a volume of 70 liters (2.4 Cubic Feet), offer a sturdy and reusable alternative to traditional cardboard boxes. These plastic tubs are ideal for storing a wide range of items, including clothing, linens, books, kitchenware, and toys. Their durable construction means that your belongings remain protected during transit and storage. They also have a stackable design, which maximizes space efficiency. These features make them perfect for both local and long-distance moves.
Prices are for a two week rental
- 25 Best Boxes – $99.99
- 35 Best Boxes – $129.99
- 50 Best Boxes – $169.99
- 75 Best Boxes – $219.99
ARE PLASTIC TUBS OR BOXES BETTER FOR MOVING?
When it comes to moving, both plastic tubs and cardboard boxes have their own advantages and drawbacks.
Plastic tubs are known for their durability and reusability. They’re also water-resistant, making them an excellent choice for protecting your belongings from moisture and potential water damage.
On the other hand, cardboard boxes are lightweight, easy to assemble, and often more cost-effective. They can be easily labeled and are available in various sizes to accommodate different items. While they may not offer the same level of protection against water damage as plastic tubs, cardboard boxes are usually sufficient for most short-term moving needs.
Why Are Rental Moving Boxes Helpful?
By investing in rental moving boxes, you're never left with mountains of cardboard boxes after concluding a move. You don't have to worry about breaking the boxes down, bringing them to recycling depots, or safely storing them in a space-efficient manner. Instead, you can simply return them to our office once you have concluded the move.
There are many other benefits to using plastic tubs over cardboard boxes, including:
- Plastic is less flexible, meaning it's less likely to cave in if something heavy is on top, and it provides a better platform for stacking.
- Plastic is more resistant to punctures, decreasing the chance of something sharp going through the box and damaging your belongings.
- Plastic is more water-resistant, lowering the risk of water damage to your items, while also maintaining better structural integrity in the event of water impacting your boxes.
HOW DO YOU DETERMINE WHAT SIZE BOX YOU NEED?
Selecting the right size box for your items is crucial to ensure their safety and maximize space efficiency during your move.
Here are a few tips to help determine the appropriate box size:
- Assess the item's dimensions: Measure the length, width, and height of the item you need to pack. Add a few inches on each side to account for padding materials such as bubble wrap or packing paper.
- Categorize your belongings: Group similar items together. Use small boxes for heavy items like books or canned goods to avoid making the box too heavy to lift. Larger boxes are better suited for lightweight, bulky items such as pillows or clothing.
- Consider the box's strength: If you're packing fragile or heavy items, look for boxes that are double-walled or have a high burst strength rating. These boxes can withstand more weight and provide better protection.
- Multi-use boxes: Opt for medium-sized boxes, which are versatile and can be used for a variety of items. They provide a good balance between capacity and manageability.
- Specialty boxes: For specific items, consider specialty boxes like wardrobe boxes for clothes on hangers or flat-screen TV boxes for valuable electronics.
IS IT WORTH BUYING BOXES FOR MOVING?
There are a few factors to consider when deciding whether to purchase boxes for your move or opt for rental moving boxes. Purchasing boxes can be cost-effective if you plan on reusing them multiple times and if you have enough storage space to store them after the move. However, if you only need boxes for a one-time move, renting may be more economical.
Ultimately, it is worth evaluating your individual needs and budget before making a decision. Consider the durability and protection provided by different types of boxes, as well as the convenience factor in terms of storage and disposal.
Whichever option you choose, proper packing materials are crucial for ensuring your belongings arrive safely at their new destination.
DO MOVERS PREFER BOXES OR BAGS?
When it comes to packing, professional movers generally prefer boxes over bags for several reasons. Boxes provide a sturdy and uniform shape, which makes them easier to stack and transport securely within a moving truck. This uniformity helps maximize the available space, ensuring that items are packed efficiently and remain stable during transit.
In contrast, bags, particularly if they are not sealed tightly, can become misshapen and are more difficult to stack, potentially leading to a disorganized and inefficient move. Additionally, boxes offer better protection for fragile items, reducing the risk of damage compared to the less structured support that bags provide.
Overall, using boxes can streamline the moving process, making it more organized and safer for your belongings.
Our Full Suite of Moving Supplies
Here, you’ll find all the packing and moving supplies you need for your upcoming move. Whether you’re planning an office relocation, a long-distance move for your family, or you intend on storing your belongings in a warehouse, you won’t have to look anywhere else for your supplies.
Look to us when you need:
How Heavy Should You Pack a Box?
When packing a box for a move, it's essential to consider its weight to ensure both the safety of your belongings and the ease of handling for yourself and movers. As a general rule, aim to keep the weight of each box manageable, typically between 30 to 50 pounds (13 to 23 kilograms). Boxes that are too heavy can increase the risk of injury when lifting and carrying, as well as potentially causing the box to break or items to shift during transit.
Conversely, you never want to pack a box too lightly either. Boxes that are too light may not provide enough stability for stacking, potentially damaging the contents. A box that is mostly empty might result in rattling and shattering items.
When Should You Choose Bubble Wrap Over Packing Paper?
Some items require more protection than others during a move. It might be easy to spot which items these might be. Knowing which packing materials to use in these situations might require a little bit of research, though. When deciding between bubble wrap and packing paper, consider the fragility and shape of the items being packed.
Bubble wrap offers superior cushioning and protection for delicate or irregularly shaped items such as:
- Glassware
- Electronics
- Artwork
- Vases
- Ceramics
The wrap's air-filled bubbles absorb shocks and vibrations during transit, significantly reducing the risk of breakage or damage. Bubble wrap is particularly suitable for items with protruding or uneven surfaces that may be susceptible to impact.
Packing paper is versatile and more environmentally friendly, making it a preferable option for wrapping items that are less fragile or have smoother surfaces. It is also lighter and easier to manipulate, making it ideal for wrapping multiple items together or filling empty spaces within boxes to prevent shifting. Packing paper's recyclable nature makes it an attractive choice for those concerned about environmental impact.
HOW MUCH BUBBLE WRAP WILL YOU NEED FOR FRAGILE ITEMS?
Determining the amount of bubble wrap you'll need depends on the quantity and fragility of your items.
For particularly delicate or valuable objects, such as glassware, ceramics, and electronics, consider using two to three layers of bubble wrap to ensure adequate protection. Additionally, wrapping individual items separately and filling any gaps within the boxes with additional padding can further safeguard your belongings from damage during transit.
Always stay on the side of caution and have extra bubble wrap on hand to avoid last-minute shortages.
SHOULD BUBBLE WRAP BE FACING IN OR OUT?
For optimal protection, the bubbles should face inward towards the item you're wrapping. This positioning provides a cushioning effect, absorbing shocks and impacts that might occur during transit. The smooth side on the outside helps to reduce friction and makes it easier to slide wrapped items into boxes. Ensuring the bubbles face inward helps protect the surface of your items, keeping them safe from potential damage.
Are Packing Peanuts Recyclable?
We live in an age where we think about the environment and sustainability even when we're planning a residential relocation. No one wants to produce any more waste than necessary during a moving assignment. They want boxes that they can reuse, wraps and tissue that they can recycle, and more.
Packing peanuts, while technically recyclable, are usually not accepted by most recycling programs. That said, they are safe for reuse. Shipping stores, warehouses, and moving companies often accept them for professional reuse, as well.
Why don't recycling depots accept packing peanuts? Packing peanuts are typically made from expanded polystyrene (EPS). This material is lightweight and has a low density, which makes it inefficient to transport and process in recycling facilities. Standard peanuts are not easily biodegradable, either.
Should You Use Furniture Bags for Couches and Chairs?
Furniture bags help make your move stress-free by adding another layer of protection for your furniture. These sturdy, reusable bags offer exceptional protection for your upholstered furniture. Their waterproof material keeps spills and stains at bay, while the interior helps prevent scratches and dents on your favorite couches and chairs.
Just slip your furniture into the bag, close it up, and you’re ready to go—no wrestling with awkward angles or worrying about damage.
How Do You Protect Your Mattress During a Move?
Proper protection is key to preserving your mattress’s condition when it’s stored for an extended period of time. The best way to cover your mattress for storage is with a high-quality, breathable mattress cover. Breathable fabric covers allow airflow while still shielding your mattress from dust, dirt, and pests.
Before covering, make sure your mattress is completely clean and dry to prevent moisture buildup during storage. It’s also a good idea to place your mattress on a flat surface away from heavy items that could cause sagging or indentations. Elevating it slightly off the floor can help with air circulation and further protect it from potential damage.
These simple steps will keep your mattress fresh and ready to use when you bring it back out of storage.
HOW SHOULD YOU PACK YOUR STUFF FOR LONG-TERM STORAGE?
Packing your belongings for long-term storage requires careful planning and preparation to ensure they remain in good condition.
Here are some essential steps to follow:
- Clean and dry all items: Before packing, thoroughly clean and dry your belongings to prevent mold, mildew, and unpleasant odors from developing over time.
- Use high-quality packing materials: Invest in durable boxes or plastic tubs, bubble wrap, packing paper, and strong packing tape. These materials will provide better protection against dust, moisture, and potential damage.
- Label and inventory your boxes: Clearly label each box with its contents and create an inventory list. This will help you easily locate items when you need them and keep track of everything stored.
- Avoid plastic bags: Use breathable materials such as fabric or canvas storage bags for clothing and textiles to prevent moisture buildup and potential mildew.
- Store items strategically: Place heavier boxes at the bottom and lighter ones on top. Keep frequently accessed items near the front of your storage unit and less frequently used items towards the back.
How Do You Organize and Label Storage Boxes?
Moving boxes and storage boxes differ primarily in purpose and frequency of access, and thus should be labeled differently.
Moving box labels should prioritize quick identification and unpacking. They might include room assignments and urgency levels, like "Bedroom - Essentials," to streamline the moving process and ensure the items you use all the time are easily accessed right away.
In contrast, storage boxes are typically used for long-term organization, so labels should focus on detailed descriptions of contents and frequency of use, such as "Winter Clothes - Rarely Used." These labels help you identify what’s inside without frequent handling.
Here’s a breakdown of what your storage box labels should include:
- What type of items are inside the box—e.g., holiday decorations, winter clothes, shoes, etc.
- A brief list of specific items in the box—e.g., Christmas lights, ornaments, vacation sandals, etc.
- A label that describes frequency access—e.g., seasonal, rarely used, etc.
- The date when you last opened the box
- The room where the items will be used or belong—e.g., living room, garage, etc.
Should You Label Every Storage Box?
Yes. Label every box if you have the time and materials to do so. Your future self will thank you when you don’t have to dig to the bottom and back of your storage facility to find a specific item.
HOW DO YOU PREVENT MOISTURE IN PACKAGING?
Preventing moisture in packaging is essential to protect your belongings from mold, mildew, and other forms of damage.
One effective method is to use silica gel packs, which absorb moisture and help maintain a dry environment within your boxes. You can place these packets inside individual containers or larger boxes, depending on your needs.
Another approach is to line the interior of your boxes with plastic liners or trash bags, which act as a barrier against dampness. Additionally, consider using climate-controlled storage units if you plan to store items for an extended period, as they regulate temperature and humidity levels.
HOW EARLY SHOULD YOU START PACKING YOUR BELONGINGS?
Customers regularly ask us how early they should start packing. Our advice? Start the packing process as soon as you know the date you’re moving, and give yourself a minimum of four weeks to get organized and packed up.
Starting your packing early allows you to tackle the task at a reasonable pace, reducing your stress and giving you the time to ensure no detail is overlooked. Starting with things like seasonal decorations, out-of-season clothing, and infrequently used equipment, you can move your belongings into one designated area to help you keep track of what you’re bringing and what you’re disposing of.
In our experience, packing takes longer than you expect. By beginning early, you’ll have the flexibility to adapt to unexpected challenges.
DO COMMERCIAL MOVES REQUIRE SPECIAL PACKING EQUIPMENT?
While commercial and residential moves have similarities, commercial relocation is often more complicated and requires specialized packing equipment to transport furniture, equipment, and company documents safely. From custom crates that support industrial equipment moves to anti-static packaging for shipping electronics, several strategies are used to safely relocate business inventory.
If you’re moving into a new business or office space, talk to our team about the strategies we’ll employ to make your relocation hassle-free.
How Do You Pack Office Furniture?
Packing office furniture takes some planning, but with the right approach, you can make the process fast and efficient.
Start by disassembling larger items like desks and cabinets to make them easier to move and handle. Consider taking photos or making notes of how certain furniture pieces were assembled to streamline the setup process once you arrive at your new location. Having a step-by-step plan for reassembling key pieces of furniture can save time and reduce stress during the final stages of the move. Make sure to wrap sharp edges or fragile corners with bubble wrap or packing paper to avoid bumps and scratches.
To cover chairs, sofas, and other upholstered pieces, use furniture blankets or moving pads to protect them from stains and tears. For smaller items like lamps or office supplies, pack them in sturdy cardboard boxes, filling any gaps with packing materials to keep them from shifting during your move.
Electronic equipment, such as computers, monitors, printers, and other office devices, will have many cords and cables. It’s essential to organize these items carefully to avoid tangling or misplacing important accessories. Before disassembling electronics, take pictures of the cable setups for reference when reassembling them in your new space.
Careful planning, the right materials, and organized labeling are key to ensuring your office furniture is packed and transported efficiently and without damage.
Be Prepared For Your Move
An essential part of any move is accumulating all of the necessary supplies. From boxes to packing peanuts, there are many things you need to guarantee your possessions arrive at their destination in one piece.
For all of your packing needs, Best Movers is here for you. We stock a wide range of packing supplies, and are Yellowknife's one stop shop for everything required for your move.