The Most Protective Packing Materials To Use When Moving

Know What Works For Your Move: Avoid Damage & Save Money

Packing is one of the most important steps when planning a move. Using the right materials is just as important as hiring the right Gilbert moving company, especially if you want to keep your belongings safe and make unpacking easier and less stressful. From fragile glassware to heavy furniture, each item requires a different level of protection. 

By choosing the most effective packing supplies, you can avoid damage, save money on replacements, and ensure a smoother moving experience. You may need packing paper and foam rolls for a few things and heavy blankets for others; the thing is knowing what exactly works best for your entire move, and that’s what we’re ready to explain in this article.

Bubble Wrap

There’s a reason bubble wrap still gets tossed into moving boxes after all these years: it just works. Those tiny air pockets might not look like much, but they’re surprisingly good at resisting bumps and keeping fragile stuff from getting damaged. Think glassware, electronics, mugs, and so on.

It’s also super light and easy to work with, which is nice when you’re trying not to turn every box into a workout. A solid approach? Wrap things in packing paper first, then go over it with bubble wrap, and tape it up so it stays put. If there’s any space left in the box, crumple up some paper and place it properly to keep things from sliding around. 

If you’re working with a moving company in Gilbert, there’s a good chance they can give you some bubble wrap rolls. Some of them will even pack your items for you using heavy-duty materials, which might save you the headache.

Packing Paper

Packing paper is one of those moving essentials that’s easy to ignore but it’s still incredibly useful. It’s clean, recyclable, and works well for wrapping a wide range of household items. Think kitchenware like plates, mugs, and glasses, but also things like small appliances, framed photos, or decorative pieces that need a bit of protection.

When it comes to fragile items, don’t hold back. Layer the paper generously and be sure to stuff the inside of bowls or cups to help prevent cracks or chips. Crumpled paper also comes in handy for filling gaps inside boxes, which helps keep things from shifting around in transit.

That said, while packing paper is affordable and light, it doesn’t always provide enough padding on its own (especially to protect delicate pieces). In those cases, it’s a good idea to add an extra layer of protection, like foam sheets or bubble wrap, just to be safe.

If you have doubts regarding how to protect your fragile items, feel free to ask your local moving company as they usually have the necessary tools and guidance to help you with your move. 

Foam Sheets & Rolls

Packing foam is another great option when it comes to protecting fragile items. It’s available in different forms—sheets, rolls, pouches, and even special corner protectors for things like picture frames or flat-screen TVs. Foam pouches, in particular, are incredibly handy: you just slip the item in, seal it, and it’s ready to go into the box.

It works especially well for smaller, delicate items like dishes, jewelry, ornaments, and framed photos. For bulkier pieces, like laptops or countertop appliances, foam sheets or rolls can provide the kind of full coverage that helps prevent damage during the move.

While it does tend to cost a bit more than packing paper or bubble wrap, the convenience and added protection often make it a worthwhile upgrade.

Packing Peanuts & Alternatives

Packing peanuts and styrofoam blocks might not offer much protection on their own, but they’re incredibly effective when it comes to filling empty space in moving boxes. They help keep your already-wrapped items from sliding around, which can make a big difference during transit.

A good approach is to pour a layer of peanuts at the bottom of the box, set your wrapped item on top, and then fill in the sides and the top before sealing everything up. That said, it’s important to remember that peanuts work best when paired with other materials—like packing paper, bubble wrap, or foam—since they’re meant more for cushioning movement than preventing direct impact.

Moving Blankets & Furniture Pads

Ask any local moving company about heavy-duty moving blankets and they will all answer probably the same: These are the perfect choice for protecting large items that don’t fit into boxes. Heavy-duty moving blankets are a great option to protect furniture, appliances, or musical instruments. 

Their thick, padded material does a great job absorbing bumps and guarding against scratches, dents, or scuffs, especially during the more hectic parts of the move like loading and unloading. They’re particularly useful in tight spaces like narrow doorways, hallways, or staircases (where accidental knocks are harder to avoid).

To use them, just wrap the blanket around the item and secure it with stretch wrap, straps, or even heavy-duty tape to keep everything in place. Many professional movers bring their own as part of their standard gear, but if you’re managing the move on your own, they’re easy enough to rent or buy from most moving supply stores.

Sturdy Moving Boxes

Sturdy moving boxes are the foundation of just about every successful move. A well-constructed box does more than just hold your belongings—it helps protect them from pressure, stacking weight, and the inevitable jostling that comes with transport. 

Whether you’re packing books, kitchenware, clothes, or electronics, having the right box makes a noticeable difference.

It’s crucial to choose boxes specifically designed for moving rather than reusing old or flimsy ones. Moving boxes are typically built with thicker cardboard and reinforced edges, which makes them far more reliable when stacked or carried. They also come in a range of sizes to suit different items, from small, heavy-duty boxes for books to larger ones for bedding or lightweight household goods.

If you’re buying boxes yourself, many moving supply stores sell kits that include different sizes, plus labels and tape. Alternatively, if you’re working with a moving company, they might supply boxes as part of their service or offer them at a discount.

Additional Packing Tips For a Smooth & Safe Move

Even with the best packing materials, you still need to pack and organize your boxes properly to protect your items the best way possible. Here’s a list of some tips to make your packing as easy and effective as possible:

• Label boxes clearly: Write directly on the box with a bold, waterproof marker, identifying not only what’s inside but whether it’s fragile or should be kept upright.
• Use “Fragile” tape: This not only reinforces the box but also provides a clear visual warning for anyone carrying it, ensuring extra caution during handling.
• Don’t overpack boxes: Cramming too many items in a single box makes it heavy, hard to lift, and more prone to collapsing. Spread weight evenly and stick to manageable loads.
• Seal boxes properly: Use strong packing tape on all seams, especially on the bottom. Reinforce corners and edges to avoid splitting under pressure.

If you’re not sure how to safely pack certain items (or just want to skip the stress entirely) working with an affordable moving company that provides storage moving services is a smart choice. Consider it for a smart and time-saving move. 

Protect What Matters With Trusted Gilbert Moving Experts

Whether you’re packing everything up on your own or getting a hand from the pros, having the right materials on hand can really impact how smoothly the move goes.

At A to Z Valleywide Movers, we understand how important it is to keep your belongings safe—and we’re here to help you do that. As an affordable Arizona-based moving company, we’re committed to making your move as stress-free as possible, from the first box to the final drop-off. Feel free to reach out!