Packing up and moving your stuff into a self-storage unit can be time-consuming and exhausting work. From organizing your items into boxes to ensuring that everything is packed safely, it's difficult to know where to start or what materials you'll need to get the job done efficiently. However, gathering the following must-have packing supplies beforehand can help make the moving process smooth and easy.

1) Boxes and Markers

Getting boxes seems like a no-brainer for a big moving project, but it's important to know the sizes and amount of boxes you'll need. Choose a range of sizes, including small, medium, and large boxes to help ensure that none of your boxes get too heavy for you to actually move. Heavy items (like books, canned goods, and tools) are best in the smaller boxes, while lightweight items (such as pillows, lampshades, stuffed animals, and linens) should go in larger boxes. Medium boxes are ideal for small appliances, board games, and shoes. Always have a few extra boxes on hand, even if you think that you might not use them. To guarantee that you always know what is inside each box, you should also be sure to have some markers on hand. This is particularly crucial if you are moving your items into a storage unit, as you may not visit the storage facility often and may eventually forget what is in each box. You can label your boxes using different colored markers for each room or simply use a basic black marking pen.

2) Bubble Wrap or Packing Paper

There's nothing more frustrating than transporting something fragile from one place to another and finding that the item has been broken during the move. Bubble wrap can protect your delicate items from serious damage, and it is very easy to use and quite affordable. This wrapping is perfect for dishes, glasses, mirrors, small figurines, and large picture frames. The bubble side should face towards the item to provide a protective cushion, just in case the item is jostled around inside the box during the move. Packing paper is a great alternative to bubble wrap that can fill up empty spaces in your boxes and create additional padding for breakable items.

3) Heavy Duty Tape

Your boxes are no good if they are not properly reinforced. Heavy-duty packing tape will help make your boxes strong and secure. Be sure to select a tape that is designated for packing, because masking tape or other less sturdy types of tape may not be able to adequately keep the boxes closed. For the best support and structure, take the time to wrap a few pieces of tape around the sides of the box as well as across the top. You may also want to use a tape gun to save time and effort, instead of cutting strips of tape with scissors.

Moving can be stressful, but with a little help from friends and the packing supplies above, you'll be all set for your big moving day.