Moving to a new home or office is an exciting milestone, but it can also be a whirlwind of planning, packing, and problem-solving. At Half Price Movers, we know that having the right supplies and tools can make all the difference between a smooth, stress-free move and a chaotic one. That’s why we’ve compiled this comprehensive list of essential items to ensure your move is as seamless as possible.
1. Packing Supplies: The Basics You Can’t Do Without
The first step in any move is packing. Here are the essentials to have on hand before you start:
Sturdy Boxes: Don’t skimp on boxes! Invest in a variety of sizes to fit everything from clothes to electronics. Wardrobe boxes are especially useful for transporting hanging clothes.
Packing Tape: Heavy-duty packing tape is non-negotiable. Flimsy tape will peel, split, or fail to keep your boxes sealed.
Bubble Wrap & Packing Paper: Protect your fragile items, like dishes, glassware, and electronics, with ample cushioning.
Stretch Wrap (Plastic Wrap): This versatile tool can secure furniture drawers, prevent scratches, and hold oddly shaped items together.
Tagaroom Moving Labels: Label every box clearly with its contents and the room it belongs in. Trust us you’ll thank yourself later. It’ll help the movers get the job done faster. Tagaroom Moving Labels are perfect for this and we highly recommend them.
Zip-Top Bags: Small items like screws, bolts, and remote controls can easily get lost. Use these bags to keep them organized.
2. Moving Equipment: Make Heavy Lifting Easier
Unless you plan to hire movers (which we highly recommend), you’ll need some equipment to make the process safer and faster.
4 Wheeled Dollies & Hand Trucks: Save your back and move heavy furniture and appliances with ease. There are two types — 4 wheeled dollies (for refrigerators and washers) and standard two-wheel hand trucks.
Furniture Sliders: Moving heavy furniture across wood or tile floors? These small, disc-shaped sliders prevent scratches and reduce strain on your back.
Lifting Straps: For large items that won’t fit on a dolly, lifting straps provide added leverage and reduce the load on your arms and back.
Moving Blankets: Protect furniture, mirrors, and large appliances from dings and scratches with thick, padded blankets.
3. Safety Gear: Protect Yourself & Your Belongings
Moving can be physically demanding, so it’s important to protect yourself while lifting and carrying items.
Work Gloves: Prevent blisters, cuts, and scrapes when handling heavy or sharp-edged items.
Back Support Belt: If you’ll be doing a lot of lifting, a back brace or support belt can help reduce strain.
First Aid Kit: It’s better to be safe than sorry. Keep a small kit on hand in case of minor cuts or injuries.
4. Cleaning Supplies: Leave Your Old Space Sparkling
Once everything is packed up, you’ll want to leave your old space looking spotless — especially if you want your deposit back.
All-Purpose Cleaner & Disinfectant: Clean counters, sinks, and other surfaces with a spray cleaner.
Trash Bags: You’ll inevitably generate trash and recyclables as you pack.
Sponges, Rags & Paper Towels: These come in handy for spot cleaning and wiping down surfaces.
Broom, Mop & Vacuum: Give your floors one final sweep and scrub before you lock the door.
5. Personal Essentials: Stay Comfortable & Hydrated
Moving can be an all-day event, so don’t forget to take care of yourself.
Water Bottles & Snacks: Moving is hard work. Stay hydrated and keep your energy up with quick snacks.
Change of Clothes: You’ll get sweaty. Have a fresh change of clothes for when the hard work is done.
Toiletries & Towels: If you’re moving long-distance or staying overnight in your new home, bring a basic “survival kit” of soap, shampoo, a toothbrush, toilet tissues, and towels.
Chargers & Power Banks: Keep your phone charged so you can communicate with movers, delivery drivers, and utility companies.
6. Must-Have Tools for Disassembly & Reassembly
Some furniture, appliances, and electronics will need to be taken apart and put back together. Make sure you have these tools handy:
Screwdriver (Flathead & Phillips): Essential for disassembling bed frames, tables, and electronics.
Allen Wrenches: These hex keys are often needed to disassemble furniture from brands like IKEA.
Utility Knife: Cut through tape, break down boxes, and open packages with ease.
Hammer & Pliers: These are useful for furniture assembly and small repairs along the way.
Measuring Tape: Make sure your larger items will fit through doorways and into your new space before moving them.
7. Miscellaneous Items You Might Overlook
These often-forgotten items will come in handy as you navigate your move.
Scissors: A good pair of scissors will be used more than you think.
Permanent Markers: For labeling boxes, especially those containing fragile or high-priority items.
Bungee Cords & Tie-Down Straps: Keep large items secured during transport to avoid shifting or damage.
Flashlight: If power isn't on in your new home or you’re moving at night, a flashlight is essential.
Notepad & Pen: Track important notes, make lists, or jot down reminders for yourself.
Pro Tip: Hire Professional Movers for Extra Peace of Mind
Even with all the right tools and supplies, moving can be exhausting. If you'd rather leave the heavy lifting to the experts, Half Price Movers has you covered. Our experienced movers come equipped with all the necessary supplies and equipment, so you don’t have to worry about sourcing everything yourself.
Final Thoughts
With the right tools, equipment, and supplies, your moving experience can be smooth, safe, and (dare we say it) pleasant. From packing materials to dollies and safety gear, being well-prepared reduces stress and saves you time. Let Half Price Movers handle the heavy lifting if you're feeling overwhelmed. We provide everything you need for a stress free move.
