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Moving Supplies for a Move in Tacoma, WA

Choosing the Best Moving Supplies Really Matters

Ever tried to move using grocery bags and old newspapers? Yeah, it doesn't end well. When you use proper supplies, your belongings stay safe and your move is much smoother. Starving Students has been providing professional moves since 1973 and we’re experts in choosing the perfect moving supplies!

What are Essential Moving Supplies?

Boxes That Actually Hold Up

Don’t assume every box is up for the job! You want sturdy boxes in various sizes, like:

  • 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 ft x 2 ft.
  • Large boxes (great for linens, pillows, and light items)
  • Wardrobe boxes (move clothes keeping them on hangers)
  • Dish packs (specially designed for kitchenware)

No one’s saying you have to buy everything new, simply recommending that they meet the criteria provided above.

Cardboard box sitting on the step of a house, while in the background men load a couch into a 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 (won’t stain like newsprint)
  • Furniture pads or moving blankets (prevent scratches and dings)
  • 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 try to skimp on proper packing material just to regret not having more.


Sealing & Labeling Products & Tools

Leave the duct tape for duct work, you want to use packing tape, which is for, ahem, packing. 

  • Heavy-duty packing tape (don't skimp here!)
  • Tape dispensers (trust us, your teeth and sanity will be grateful)
  • 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 Tacoma

Looking to cut costs for your move, consider:

  • Check grocery stores and liquor stores for free boxes
  • Use towels, stuffed animals, toilet paper rolls, paper towel rolls, and clothing as padding for fragile items
  • Keep daily newspapers for extra wrapping and filling gaps
  • 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 Tacoma from Starving Students, Including supplies to make your move as smooth as possible.