Finding the right packing supplies at the optimal time ensures your belongings arrive safely at your new home.
Moving to a new home can be stressful. Gathering supplies like boxes, bubble wrap, and tape takes planning so you’re prepared when packing day arrives.
This article will discuss tips on when to buy packing materials based on your move timeline.
We’ll cover when to purchase supplies like packing materials near me so they’re on-hand when you need them.
We’ll also provide a checklist of essentials like boxes, tape, markers, and more to pack and protect belongings. Read on to find out the optimal time to stock up before your move.
Why Timing Matters When Purchasing Packing Supplies?
Buying packing supplies too early or late can leave you scrambling. Use this guide on when to purchase to avoid last-minute shortages.
Preparing for a big move takes thought and care. Packing materials help protect your valued possessions on their journey to your new place.
However, supplies like boxes and bubble wrap piles up quickly. If you buy too early, they take up space. Too late, and you may not get what you need.
Follow this guide on ideal timing to ensure no shortages. We’ll also cover the key materials like boxes, tape, paper, and more that every move requires. Let’s dive into planning your packing supply purchases.
6-8 Weeks Before Your Move: Make a Detailed Inventory
Catalog all your possessions so you know how many boxes and supplies you need.
The first step is taking a home inventory around 2 months prior to your move date. Walk through each room and garage/storage space with pen and paper.
Write down every item, especially larger things like furniture and appliances. This tally gives a realistic count of boxes and materials required to safely pack your household.
Tips for making a thorough home inventory:
- Check all closets, cupboards, drawers, and shelves
- Don’t forget the garage, attic, basement, or storage units
- Categorize by room then box type needed
- Note items needing specialty packing like mirrors or artwork
With an itemized list in hand, you can estimate quantities of each supply type to purchase. Common packing materials include:
- Cardboard boxes
- Packing paper or bubble wrap
- Tape and dispensers
- Permanent markers
- Scissors
- Specialty containers
Use your inventory to create a purchasing checklist. Having this prepared makes shopping for supplies efficient.
4 Weeks Before Call Moving Companies for Boxes
Many moving companies provide used boxes for free if you book services with them.
One money saver when buying packing materials is sourcing free moving boxes. Around 4 weeks pre-move, call moving companies and ask if they have used boxes available. Most will provide clean, sturdy boxes at no cost if you hire them to assist your move.
Free boxes from movers is convenient, eco-friendly, and cuts purchase costs. However, assess if they meet all your needs.
Supplement with bought boxes and materials if the freebies don’t suffice. Don’t compromise protection of belongings by making do with boxes that don’t properly fit items.
If hiring movers and using their boxes, schedule a drop-off 2-3 weeks before your pack date. Reuse bags, sheets, and blankets from your last move to further reduce supplies to buy.
2-3 Weeks Out: Buy Remaining Essentials In-Store
Shop local stores in person for any specialty boxes and wrapping materials you still need.
With used boxes secured, hit nearby packing supply shops a few weeks pre-move. Stores like U-Haul and The Home Depot have moving categories stocked with tape, bubble wrap, newsprint paper, labels, and more.
Shopping in person lets you inspect quality and fit. Bring your packing inventory list to avoid over or under-buying. Having totals needed makes purchasing efficient.
Things to look for when buying supplies:
- Boxes: Clean, sturdy, with intact corners. A mix of sizes like small, medium, large, and wardrobe boxes.
- Bubble wrap: Thick bubbles that pop easily to absorb shock. Get bubble sheets or rolls depending on the items.
- Paper: Plain newsprint or colored tissue/craft paper. Use for delicate items or cushioning.
- Tape and dispensers: Strong clear packing tape in rolls, with dispensers. Also get specialty tape for heavier items or plastic-friendly types.
- Labels or markers: Sharpie permanent markers or pre-made vinyl labels. Use to mark box contents and room destinations.
- Specialty boxes: Purchase dish barrel boxes, mirror cartons, mattress bags, garment boxes, etc. if needed based on inventory.
Shopping ahead ensures you get specialty supplies not available for rush delivery. With materials bought, prep packing areas and containers.
1 Week Until Moving Day: Finalize Supplies
Make a last sweep for forgotten items and get any remaining small moving supplies.
Perform a final pre-pack walkthrough of your home about 1 week before moving day. Check areas again for things that require supplies to pack up safely:
- Toolsheds
- Storage spaces
- Drawers and closets
- Under beds and furniture
Take more detailed inventory if you discover items not already listed. Get additional boxes, paper, or bubble wrap if needed for the new items.
You can purchase final supplies at:
- Local packing and moving shops
- Office supply, grocery, or liquor stores
- Online retailers like Uline or Amazon for rush delivery
Priority items to buy last-minute if running short:
- Packing tape
- Permanent markers
- Scissors
- Specialty wrap like foam sheets or padded envelopes
Having backup tape, scissors, and markers ensures you don’t halt for lack of something small. With all materials bought, it’s time to start packing.
Key Takeaways: When to Buy Packing Supplies for an Upcoming Move
Follow this schedule to purchase boxes, tape, paper and all necessities at the optimal times.
| Weeks Before Moving | Task |
| 6-8 weeks | Catalog household inventory |
| 4 weeks | Call movers for free used boxes |
| 2-3 weeks | Buy essential supplies like containers, wrap, tape, labels |
| 1 week | Get packing materials for forgotten items |
Check all items off this timeline for stress-free packing and a smooth moving day. Investing thought into purchasing boxes, wraps, tape, and accessories ensures your valuables stay protected.
Isn’t it satisfying to envision your belongings safe in quality packing supplies as movers drive you to your exciting new chapter?
Following this guide on when to buy moving materials sets you up for packing success.
Use the recommendations as a checklist so all your possessions arrive safely in their new home. Happy moving and good luck on your upcoming relocation!
