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7 Must-Have Moving Supplies for a Smooth Transition

A woman packs up dishes

Moving to a new home can be an exciting but challenging experience. Whether you're relocating across the country or across town, having the right moving supplies at your disposal can make the process significantly smoother and more efficient. To ensure a successful move, make sure to equip yourself with the following must-have supplies:

1. Packing Tape

Packing tape is the unsung hero of any successful move. It's a versatile tool that can be used to seal boxes securely, reinforce weak spots and even bundle loose items together. Invest in high-quality packing tape to avoid frustrating mishaps during the move.

2. Packing Materials

To protect your belongings during transit, you'll need packing materials like bubble wrap and newsprint. Bubble wrap is ideal for wrapping fragile items such as glassware and electronics, providing a cushion against impact. Newsprint or packing paper is perfect for wrapping dishes before stacking or filling empty spaces within boxes to prevent items from shifting during the move.

3. Sturdy Boxes

One of the foundations of a successful move is having the right boxes. Invest in sturdy, reliable moving boxes in various sizes to accommodate different items. Ensure that the bottoms of the boxes are secure to prevent items from falling through during the move. Consider getting specialized boxes for specific items, like wardrobe boxes for clothing.

4. Labels

Effective labeling is key to an organized move. Use labels to mark the contents of each box, along with its intended destination in your new home. This will save you time and frustration when unpacking, as you'll know exactly where each box belongs. Don’t have labels? No problem. Use markers instead to employ this efficient color-coding system.

5. Mattress and Furniture Bags or Covers

Protecting your furniture and mattresses is crucial during a move. Dust and damage can easily occur if these items are not adequately shielded. Mattress bags and furniture covers will keep your belongings clean and in good condition.

6. Rope, Bungee Cords and Tie-Downs

When loading your belongings into a truck or van, tie-downs, bungee cords and strong rope are essential for securing items in place. They prevent shifting and potential damage during transport. These items are also handy for securing the drawers and doors of furniture, appliances, and other large items before loading onto the truck.

7. Hand Trucks

Make the heavy lifting a little easier by renting a hand truck to guide heavy items and boxes downstairs and into your rental truck. Each hand truck even has a stair climber to help you move heavy items between floors without an elevator. Reserve your hand truck when you reserve your vehicle, and we’ll have it loaded and ready at pickup.

In addition to these must-have supplies, it's also important to have reliable transportation to get everything to your new home. With over 50 years of truck rental experience, Penske can provide the right vehicle for your needs and additional moving supplies when required. We can even supply tunes for the road with our curated Penske Spotify playlists.

A successful move begins with the right tools and supplies. By having everything on hand, you'll be well-prepared for a smooth, more efficient, stress-free transition to your new home.

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