11 Supplies You Need to Make Your Move Go Smoothly

By Lorena Roberts on November 9, 2017

We all know moving is a pain in the butt: packing up all of your stuff, driving it to God knows where, unloading your boxes and carrying them upstairs, organizing all of your crap into your new digs, and ultimately deciding that you own way too much stuff and you’ll never move again. Or if you do move, you’ll give away everything so there’s nothing left to move.

Well, to make your move a little easier, invest in some of these handy dandy doo-dads. You won’t regret it.

1. Fresh Sharpies

You should label every box. And when I say “every box,” I actually mean every. single. box. When you throw something important into a box, you should write it on the box!

When you get to your new digs, you’ll be looking for something specific and have NO IDEA where it went; all you’ll remember is that you threw it into some random box.

2. Reusable tubs

Cardboard boxes are a pain in the butt. If you invest in some reusable tubs they’ll probably be stackable and much easier to handle. The snapping shut lids will ensure your stuff doesn’t fall out. If you get clear tubs, it’ll be even easier to remember where you put what things.

3. Box cutter

A brand new, shiny box cutter is the perfect tool for unpacking once you get to your new place. If you don’t want to continue to break your nails, pick up one of these at your local hardware store. You’ll be glad you did.

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4. Trash bags

I know. You’re thinking, “who doesn’t have trash bags handy during a move?” I know plenty.

Using trash bags for trash is conventional. Think of ways you can use these to your advantage! You can bag up hanging clothes, store towels and washcloths, or even a few pairs of shoes!

5. Cleaning supplies

Either before you leave your old place or before you want to start unpacking at the new place, you’re going to want to at least wipe down some surfaces. If you have your mom helping, she’ll probably want to bleach the baseboards, bless her heart. You’ll be thankful you at least have any kind of multi-surface cleaner. You’ll want to make your new home as comfortable as possible.

6. Mattress cover

Mattresses are hard to move — and isn’t it creepy to sleep on a mattress that’s been driven across the state in the outdoor elements? No thank you. Mattress covers are the solution to keeping your mattress in pristine condition.

7. Speakers

Music will pump any group of people up — especially your loved ones, who you have so sweetly conned into helping you move your crap. If you’re trying to lighten the mood on moving day, grab a Bluetooth speaker and pump out some tunes!

8. Dish kit

I didn’t even know these existed! Keep your dishes safe by packing them in containers made specifically for them! These kits come with reusable pouches and dividers should you decide to move again.

9. Saran Wrap

This plastic just became your new best friend. Cover your toiletries and then put the lids back on to ensure a “no-mess” move. You’ll be glad you did so when your boxes get jostled around!

10. Sandwich bags

These are handy for keeping small parts together. If you have to disassemble anything, you’ll want to tape a bag full of parts to the back! This came in handy when I was moving my TV and wall mount as well as my curtains! I knew exactly which screws I had used for which item in my room. Reassembling everything upon arrival was much quicker.

11. Colored tape

If you really want to get fancy, color code your move! You’ll be surprised how much easier everything is when you’ve assigned each category a color. If you’re hiring a moving company, this is especially helpful.

Before you move … 

Take pictures

Before you leave your old place for the last time, snap some photos. Whether you’re renting or you just sold it, you’ll want to have pictures for proof (and memories :) ).

Remember to change your address

To avoid losing your mail or missing any kind of important deliveries, change your address about two weeks before you’ll be moving out. This gives the postal service plenty of time to get things in order for you!

Sell your stuff

If you’ve decided that you absolutely, completely, most definitely have too many things, consider selling them! Facebook marketplace has made this so easy. There’s no excuse for not doing it! It’s a quick way to make some cash while also getting rid of what you don’t need.

Putty your nail holes

Before you leave, make sure to fill in all the holes you created by hanging your lovely decorations. Your landlord, or the new tenant, will be incredibly thankful.

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