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Moving Supplies for a Move in Sterling, VA

The Right Moving Supplies Makes All the Difference

Moving with the wrong materials—like plastic bags or newspapers—rarely goes smoothly. Yeah, it doesn't end well. When you use proper supplies, your belongings stay safe and your move is much smoother. Shoreview Moving and Storage has been providing professional moves since 1920 and we know exactly what you need!

What are Essential Moving Supplies?

Boxes That Actually Hold Up

There’s a big difference between flimsy and durable boxes! It’s smart to have heavy-duty boxes in multiple sizes, for example:

  • Small boxes (perfect for books and heavy items) This is typically a 1”x1”x24” box.
  • Medium boxes (ideal for most household goods) This is 2’x2’.
  • Large boxes (great for linens, pillows, and light items)
  • Wardrobe boxes (move clothes on their hangers)
  • Dish packs (specially designed for kitchenware)

No one’s saying you have to buy everything new, simply suggesting that they meet the specifications above.

North American Van Lines cardboard box sitting on ground in front of truck

Stack of cardboard boxes, bubble wrap, packing peanuts, and other protective shipping supplies

Protective Packing Materials

Keep your items protected with:

  • Bubble wrap (for fragile items)
  • Packing paper (cleaner than newspaper and won't leave ink marks)
  • Furniture pads AKA moving blankets (prevent damage)
  • Mattress bags (keep your bed clean during the move)
  • Stretch wrap (secure drawers and bundle items together)
  • Bungee, ratchet, and/or tie-down straps for things you might move yourself

It’s far too easy to attempt to skimp on proper packing material just to regret not having more.


Sealing & Labeling Products & Tools

Leave the duct tape in the tool box, you need packing tape, which is for, ahem, packing. 

  • Heavy-duty packing tape (don't skimp here!)
  • Tape dispensers (your teeth and sanity will thank you)
  • Permanent markers (for labeling boxes)
  • Pre-printed labels or stickers (for room identification)
  • Pre-printed fragile labels or big red markers!
Close-up of packing box being taped shut

Mover's dolly with boxes

Moving Tools & Helpful Accessories

Here are a few things that are going to make moving much easier. 

  • A dolly cart will save a lot of back aches and hassle
  • Furniture sliders can be very helpful
  • Bungies and ratchet straps often come in handy
  • Visqueen or tarps are important if you’re DIY moving with pickup trucks or open trailers
  • Box cutters will be important to have when you start unpacking

Tips for Money-Saving Packing in Sterling

When you want to save money, consider:

  • Pick up sturdy used boxes from local retailers
  • Use towels, stuffed animals, toilet paper rolls, paper towel rolls, and clothing as padding for fragile items
  • Collect old papers ahead of time for extra padding
  • Reach out to recent movers for leftover boxes and packing tools

 

No Time to Track Down Supplies for Your Upcoming Move?

Get A Free Packing Quote for Sterling from Shoreview Moving and Storage, Including supplies to make your move as smooth as possible.