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10 Moving Supplies You Should Never Move Without

A smooth move doesn’t start on moving day – it starts with the right supplies. After helping countless customers move homes and apartments, we’ve learned which items actually make a difference and which ones just waste money.

Here are 10 moving essentials we recommend having ready before the first box is packed.

1. Heavy-Duty Moving Boxes

Cheap, flimsy boxes collapse, crush, and can damage your belongings. Heavy-duty boxes are stronger and stack safely in a truck or storage unit.

Shop heavy-duty moving boxes on Amazon »

2. Extra-Large Zippered Moving Bags

Moving bags are perfect for clothes, bedding, pillows, and soft items that don’t need the structure of a box. They pack easily in cars, elevators, and tight spaces.

See our favorite extra-large moving bags »

3. Quality Packing Tape & Dispenser

Boxes are only as strong as the tape holding them together. A good tape gun keeps tape from tangling and speeds up packing a lot.

Get a solid packing tape & dispenser set »

4. Moving Blankets / Furniture Pads

Furniture pads protect wood, glass, and appliances from scratches, dents, and dust. They’re essential for keeping high-value items in good shape.

Check out moving blanket bundles on Amazon »

5. Stretch Wrap / Shrink Wrap

Stretch wrap keeps drawers closed, doors from swinging, and loose items together. It’s perfect for dressers, cabinets, and bundles of small items.

Shop stretch wrap rolls for moving »

6. Mattress Covers

Mattresses are expensive and hard to clean. A simple plastic or fabric cover protects them from dirt, moisture, and tears on moving day.

Find mattress covers for your bed size »

7. Furniture Sliders

Sliders go under furniture legs and let heavy items glide across floors with less effort. They also help protect hardwood and tile from scratches.

Browse furniture sliders for carpet and hard floors »

8. Hand Truck / Dolly

A hand truck takes the strain off your back and lets one person move stacks of boxes, appliances, and heavy items safely.

See hand trucks and dollies on Amazon »

9. Ratchet Straps & Tie-Downs

Once everything is loaded, you need to keep it from shifting in the truck or trailer. Ratchet straps are stronger and more secure than basic rope or bungee cords.

Shop ratchet straps and tie-down kits »

10. Labels & Room Markers

Labeling each box with its destination room saves a ton of time when unloading. Color-coded labels and clear markers make it easy for everyone to know where things go.

Get moving labels and markers for organized unpacking »

Make Your Next Move Easier

With the right supplies, moving day runs faster, safer, and with fewer surprises. Use this list as your shopping checklist so you’re ready long before the truck arrives.

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