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Moving Supplies for a Move in Tacoma, WA

The Right Moving Supplies Makes All the Difference

Ever tried to move using grocery bags and old newspapers? Chances are, you ended up with a mess. Good packing materials protect your valuables and make moving day a breeze. Western Van and Storage has been providing professional moves since 1949 and we know exactly what you need!

What are Essential Moving Supplies?

Boxes That Actually Hold Up

Not all boxes are created equal! 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 ft x 2 ft.
  • 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 recommending that they should meet the suggestions above.

Closeup of an Allied Van Lines shipping box

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

Protective Packing Materials

Keep your belongings safe with:

  • Bubble wrap (for fragile items)
  • Packing paper (won’t leave ink marks like newspapers)
  • 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 is far too easy to cut corners and skimp on proper packing material just to regret not having more.


Sealing & Labeling Products & Tools

Skip the duct tape, you want 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 some things that just make moving a bit 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

When you want to save money, consider:

  • Look for complimentary boxes at supermarkets and liquor shops
  • Repurpose soft household items for cushioning breakables
  • Save newspapers for weeks before moving to use as extra packing material
  • Ask friends who recently moved if they have supplies to pass on

 

No Time to Track Down Supplies for Your Upcoming Move?

Get A Free Packing Quote for Tacoma from Western Van and Storage, Including supplies to make your move easy.