Moving to a new home or office can be an exciting adventure, but the packing process comes with its fair share of stress and miscellaneous expenses. Whether you are doing it yourself or hiring professional movers, preparing well in advance and gathering the right supplies can save you a lot of money and time and reduce your anxiety as you organize for the big moving day.
Proper packing is the foundation for a smooth and organized move. Without the right supplies, you may incur unnecessary headaches and expenses due to damaged or lost belongings in transit.
Read on to discover essential packing supplies and tips for a breezy relocation experience
1. Cardboard Boxes
Boxes are the ultimate resource for your move, and there are different types and size to suit your moving and self-storage needs should you need extra space. Nellions provides standard small and medium boxes for a wide range of items, including tools, kitchenware, electronics, and clothing, striking a balance between size and weight. Large boxes are suitable for lightweight chunky items like beddings, cushions, pillows, and lampshades.
You may also request specialty boxes for specific items for extra protection, such as dish packs for fragile dishware, mattress boxes for beddings, and wardrobe boxes with hanger bars for clothing.
An essential packing tip is ensuring heavy items are packed in smaller boxes so they aren’t coupled with the weight if the box and become too heavy to lift. Pick the right size of box that can comfortably accommodate packed items to avoid overstuffing or excessive bulging. Finally, ensure you label the boxes with their content and handling instructions to ease the unpacking process and for the movers and friends to assist in the handling with care.
While there is no formula for determining exactly how many boxes might be needed, many experts estimate 70-150 boxes for a three-bedroom residence as a rule of thumb. It is recommendable, however, to reach out and consult with your moving partner so you know how many boxes you will need.
2. Bubble Wrap
Bubble wrap is used to cushion the bottom and walls of boxes to protect against breakage and other forms of damage during jostles and bumps in transit. You can cut smaller sheets according to the box size from a larger roll.
The wrap is flexible and versatile, making it suitable for a wide range of items, from delicate fine art to electronics to chinaware. Despite its impeccable protective abilities, bubble wrap is lightweight, minimizing the added weight to the packed items and ultimately, the shipping fees.
Bubble wrap is also eco-friendly and cost-effective as it can be reused multiple times. You may save it for a future move or repurpose it for use around the home or office.
Besides labeling wrapped items with ‘Fragile’ for movers and handlers to exercise caution for certain items and secure sealing to prevent unraveling during transportation, ensure you wrap each item individually for maximum protection, fill empty spaces in the boxes to prevent shifting, and use packing peanuts or foam for a double layer of protection.
3. Packing Tape
Packing tape is an essential resource, especially for long-distance moves such as international relocations as they keep boxes securely sealed to the final destination. It also plays a crucial role in reinforcing fragile items. The different types include;
- Clear packing tape – versatile and transparent for visible labels or markings on the boxes
- Reinforced packing tape – features added strength from fiberglass and other materials for securing bulky items and heavy boxes.
- Duct tapes – comes in handy for small repairs and reinforcement, not as reliable as standard packing tape.
4. Packing Paper
Packing paper is a versatile, eco-friendly tool for ensuring the safe and organized transport of your belongings during a move. Beyond wrapping fragile items, it may be used for;
- Wrapping and bundling small items together
- Wrapping large mirrors and artwork in layers to protect the frame and glass in transit
- Cushioning electronics such as TV screens, tablets, and cameras from scratches and minor impacts
5. Labels and Permanent Markers
You can obtain labels you prefer for your system, from numbers, letters, room type, or colors to easily identify the items in each box. The labels should be applied to the top or sides of the box so that they are readable at least from an angle. Where inclement weather is a factor, permanent markers will ensure your labels are protected from humidity and smudging.
6. Stretch Wrap
Stretch wrap, or plastic wrap, or cling film is highly suitable and effective for furniture and bulkier appliances owing to its adhesive and elastic properties. The wrap sticks to itself and leaves no residue and movers use it to safeguard doors and drawers on cabinets and other similar items.
7. Furniture Covers
Furniture covers are a simple and effective solution to furniture protection from dings, scratches, and other damage in transit. There are different types as well as DIY options to ensure your furniture arrives at your new home or office safely and in pristine condition.
Types of Furniture Covers
- Plastic Covers – durable, waterproof, and tear-resistant, making them an excellent choice for protecting furniture during a move. They are available in various sizes and can be easily secured with tape or straps.
- Fabric Covers – offer a softer, more breathable alternative. They provide protection against scratches and dust while allowing airflow to prevent moisture buildup. They are reusable and can be machine-washed for easy cleaning.
Alternative furniture covers cut cardboard pieces, blankets and sheets, moving blankets and bubble wrap or towels.
8. Packing Foam
Packing foam absorbs shocks and vibrations during transportation by acting as a cushion between objects and the box walls. It helps hold things in place by filling the spaces in boxes, keeping them from moving and possibly breaking. Packing foam offers considerable support for fragile or unusually shaped products, lowering the possibility of breakage or deformation.
9. Box Cutter or Scissors
A box cutter comes in handy when it is time to unpack. You can use it to cut precise, clear-cut edges when you need to unpack at the new home or office. With the precise cutting capabilities of box cutters and scissors, you may open boxes neatly and without causing damage to their contents. can be used for many other jobs, like trimming packaging materials, cutting tape, and assembling furniture. Ensure the cutter is sharp and proceed carefully to avoid accidents.
Where to Buy Packing and Moving Supplies in Nairobi, Kenya
Investing in high-quality packing supplies ensures the security and safety of your possessions. Although it could be alluring to save on quality or utilize improvised materials, the assurance that your belongings are adequately safeguarded is priceless. Investing in high-quality packing supplies will make your move easier, faster, and less stressful.
You can buy all of the items listed in this article at Nellions’ Moving Shop. Enjoy same-day delivery for all orders delivered to Nairobi.
Nellions – Your Moving Partner
A smooth transfer to your new house depends on careful preparation, appropriate packing methods, and the right supplies, so keep that in mind as you prepare for your move. You may lessen the difficulties of relocating and concentrate on the thrill of beginning a new chapter in your life with thorough planning and attention to detail.
Nellions Kenya can help you load and unload your items into your new unit, provide packing and unpacking services, and organize your unit. Are you interested in house and office moving services in Kenya? Call us at +254 700 000 002. You may also email us at MOVE@NELLIONS.CO.KE.
