Important Supplies for Packing

• Plastic bags for smaller items
• Labels to identify contents of a box or bag
• Foam peanuts, Styrofoam "popcorn" or bubble wrap
• Tissue paper for delicate items
• Newspaper (don't use newspaper on anything you wouldn't want ink to smudge onto)
• Tape for sealing boxes (at least 1 ½ inches thick)
• Permanent markers
• Notebook paper or a computer-printed list to list your items or make important notes
• Scissors and box cutter
• Packing boxes of all shapes and sizes
• Large bags for items such as mattresses, large blankets or other large items

Here is a breakdown of each item you will need for packing.

Boxes
Moving companies and many office supply stores will sell boxes and packing supplies to help with your move. You can also get used boxes from grocery stores, liquor stores and other retail organizations. It's important to use strong, durable boxes - if you get used boxes for your move, make sure they are in good shape for potentially heavy items.

Remember, you will probably need a lot of boxes - more than you originally thought. It's better to have extra than not enough. If you buy boxes from a store or moving company, be sure to keep the receipt - you can return your unused boxes. Also, don't underestimate the amount of items you will have to pack the day of your move. If you have original boxes for any of your belongings, it's ideal to use those - not only is that one less box you will have to purchase, but you won't have to label it either.

When packing your boxes, do not let them burst at the seams and do not pack them too heavy. Not only will it make it harder to lift, but this increases the potential for broken boxes or belongings.

Labeling
To minimize confusion, it's important to label your boxes. A great way to organize your boxes is by marking them with colored stickers or another color coding system. When you start your move, decide what colors need to be unpacked first and follow this system. In addition, put labels on multiple sides as well as the top of your boxes.

Wrapping Materials Try to use unprinted newspaper to avoid getting ink on your stuff. The few weeks or months before your move, gather things you can use for cushioning, such as grocery bags, scrap paper, stuffing from things you purchase, etc. When in doubt, use extra paper - there's no point in cushioning a box if it's too little. Make sure you have enough to protect your items on all sides.

Remember to wrap fragile items separately to keep them from breaking. You should also buy brightly colored tissue paper for small items to avoid oversight when you unpack. When wrapping other fragile items, such as dishes, wrap each piece in bubble wrap or other cushioning and stuff the finished box with newspaper or tissue paper.

Tape
Strong, wide tape is ideal for sealing boxes. Try to get tape that comes on a roll with a cutter to make things easier for you. Tape each box on the top and bottom at least half way down the sides. Don't be afraid to use too much tape - better to use too much than not enough.

Scissors
Have a few pairs of inexpensive scissors, that way you will have an extra pair and won't be upset if it breaks.

Plastic Bags
Get multiple sizes of plastic bags for containing smaller items. You can group similar things together more easily this way, making packing and unpacking go more quickly.

Trash Bags
Keep trash bags around to throw items away as you pack - the less you will have to bring to your new home.

Again, you'll need more supplies than you think. Get extra so the packing can go smoothly. Return any unused supplies after the truck is packed.