What moving supplies will you need for a move?

If you've already begun calculating the moving supplies that you will need for your relocation, your head may be spinning. To simplify the process, we have created a complete list of the basic moving materials necessary to safely pack and transport your belongings to your new home.

 

List of basic moving supplies

Based on a four bedroom home that has been lived in for five or more years, here is a list of moving supplies that you will need for relocation:

  • Extra large moving boxes - 6
  • Large moving boxes - 8
  • Medium moving boxes - 15
  • Specialty boxes - 2
  • Wardrobe boxes - 4
  • Packing tape - 2
  • Tape dispenser - 1
  • Marker - 1
  • Rope or twine - 1
  • Labels - 1 set of 140
  • Bubble wrap or butcher paper - 1

 

The above supplies are ideal to pack and transport the average four-bedroom home in Australia. For a home of this size, it's recommended to book a 4.5 metre moving truck either for self moving or through a professional moving service.

 

How to save money on moving materials

Depending on the type of furniture you have, you may also need furniture pads, moving blankets, shrink wrap, and furniture edge protectors to prevent scratching or breakage during a move. Though, how many of these furniture supplies are absolute necessities during relocation?

Here are some cheap alternatives to furniture moving supplies:

  • Instead of using moving blankets, switch out with your own blankets or comforters to protect furniture. Since moving blankets are only used during a move, they are often a waste of money if you will not be moving again in the near future.
  • Use newspaper to protect shelves and cabinets instead of furniture edge protectors. Newspaper or butcher paper can be held in place with packing tape and will provide the similar protection.
  • Instead of furniture pads, use old carpeting or rugs.
  • Some pieces of furniture may not need special protection. Take care not to scratch or scuff furniture when loading it into the moving truck.
  • If you have enough people helping with your move or if you've hired a professional moving service, then it reduces the need to rent or buy trolleys to move furniture around.

 

Top moving tip

If you're unsure of how many boxes you will need to move your belongings, use a moving box calculator online. A moving box calculator will be able to tell you how many boxes are needed based on the room size and square footage of your home.