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Moving Supplies Checklist: All That You’ll Need for Your Big Move

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A man taping up a cardboard box in a living room in this image from Shutterstock

You can be just as good as a professional mover with the right supplies. (Image: Shutterstock)

Preparing for a big move can be daunting for anyone, but having the right supplies on hand can make the process smoother and more efficient. Whether you're relocating across town or across the country, a comprehensive checklist of moving supplies will ensure you’re well-prepared for the task ahead. From sturdy boxes and packing tape to bubble wrap and furniture covers, this article will guide you through all the essential items you'll need to organize your move like a pro. Keep reading to find out how to equip yourself with the necessary tools to make your moving day a stress-free success.

The Complete Moving Supplies Checklist

For packing

  • Boxes of all sizes
  • Packing tape
  • Stretch wrap
  • Bubble wrap
  • Packing paper
  • Labels
  • Markers
  • Plastic baggies
  • Scotch tape
  • Scissors
  • Mattress covers/bags

For moving

  • Dollies
  • Hand carts
  • Cargo straps
  • Bungee cords
  • Moving blankets
  • Gloves
  • Doorstops
  • Door protectors (or use moving blankets)

General tools and supplies

  • Box cutter/utility knife
  • Screwdrivers
  • Hex wrenches
  • Trash bags
  • Paper towels
  • Cleaning sprays and scrubs

And Don’t Forget…

Checklists

A woman sits on a couch, writing a checklist on a clipboard in this image from Shutterstock
A checklist will help you keep track of everything during your move. (Image: Shutterstock)

Yes, we are listing checklists on this checklist!

If you want to stay on top of your moving process, you need to create a moving checklist. You might even want to go above and beyond and create multiple lists. What needs to be packed or unpacked and in what order, people you need to contact, important dates to remember — these can be listed and prepared for.

Your Phone

Your phone can prove instrumental in keeping the moving process smooth. Countless apps can help streamline the process or keep track of important information. It’s also a connection to other members of your household to keep track of their process. It can act as a GPS on moving day and lead you to your new home. Unpacking? Use your favorite music app to supply the tunes and make the process more enjoyable. It may not be a “supply” traditionally, but its value can’t be understated.

Your “Go Bag” or “Emergency Bag”

The thing about packing smart and well in advance is that a lot of your everyday essentials end up buried in boxes. That’s OK — but if you want to stay sane on the day of the big move, we recommend putting together a bag of essentials. That means food for your journey, basic cleaning supplies for tidying up your new space, some disposable utensils and plates for the last meal you have before unpacking, and a first-aid kit. Plus, it entails anything else that you think you might need in the time between when you close the last moving box at your old place and when you open the first one at your new place. This is especially important for big moves across state lines, but it’s still a good tip even if you’re just moving across town.