When it comes to purchasing packing supplies to prepare for a move, many families only thinking about buying boxes. While boxes are undoubtedly the most important thing you'll need, you'll be lost come moving day if that's all you have. Here are three more important things to pick up when you're shopping for packing supplies and how to use them.
1. Void Fill
One of the most important packing supplies you'll need is some kind of void fill. As the name suggests, void fill fills up any gaps in your box to prevent things from moving around, knocking against each other and getting damaged during transit. There are several types of void fill you can choose. Packing paper is the most common; wrap a few sheets around each item, then scrunch it up to fill gaps. You can also use bubble wrap, packing peanuts or even old blankets depending on your needs and budget.
2. Packing Tape
No matter how carefully and safely you've packed up your belongings, they're unlikely to stay in good shape during the move if they're not sealed with packing tape. To prevent anything from falling out of its box in the truck, invest in some high-quality, wide, waterproof tape. Ideally, you should pick up a tape dispenser gun as well to make sealing your boxes easier. The best way to ensure your box stays sealed is to use the 'H' method: first, tape along the long seam of the box, then tape down the short seams (this will look like the letter H when you're done). Remember to tape both sides of the box securely, and don't be afraid to use a second layer of tape in an X pattern across the top for extra security.
3. Marker Pens and Labels
Once the moving truck arrives at your new house and unloads everything, you'll be left with stacks and stacks of identical, sealed boxes. If you want to have any hope of keeping your sanity while unpacking, you'll need to know what's inside those boxes. That's why marker pens and labels are very important packing supplies. Before sealing each of your packing boxes, stick on a label and write down what's inside—for example, kitchen utensils or toys. To make things even easier, pick a different coloured label for each room of your house; this will also help your moving team unload boxes into the right part of the house.