Packing is the foundation of every successful move. Whether you’re moving locally or embarking on a long-distance relocation, using the correct packaging materials is vital for protecting your belongings, saving time, and reducing stress on moving day.
At Best London Removals, we’ve seen firsthand the difference that proper packing makes — not just in safeguarding items, but in streamlining the entire process. Here’s a practical breakdown of the essential packaging materials you should have on hand before moving day.
Sturdy cardboard boxes – the backbone of every move
No move is complete without a range of strong cardboard boxes. These are the go-to containers for most household items.
Key tips for using cardboard boxes effectively:
- Use a variety of sizes:
Smaller boxes are best for heavy items like books, tools, or tinned goods. Larger boxes are ideal for lighter items such as clothing, cushions, or bedding. - Choose double-walled boxes:
For fragile or valuable items, double-walled cardboard adds extra strength and reduces the risk of collapse under weight. - Use specialist boxes where needed:
Consider wardrobe boxes with hanging rails for clothes, dish-pack boxes with dividers for crockery, or flat-screen TV boxes with foam inserts.
Plastic crates – durable, reusable, and water-resistant
Plastic crates or bins are a fantastic alternative to traditional cardboard boxes — especially for frequent movers or for added protection during longer-distance moves.
Why they’re worth considering:
- Reusable and eco-friendly
They can be used multiple times, making them a greener solution compared to disposable boxes. - Waterproof
Particularly useful during rainy weather or if loading/unloading takes place outdoors. - Transparent and stackable
Being able to see contents helps with unpacking and locating priority items.
Bubble wrap and packing paper – your first line of defence
When it comes to fragile belongings, padding and wrapping are non-negotiable.
How to use them effectively:
- Wrap each item individually and fill any empty space inside boxes with crumpled packing paper.
- Use bubble wrap for delicate items like vases, ceramics, picture frames, and electronics.
- Clearly label all boxes with fragile contents — ideally on multiple sides.
High-quality packing tape – don’t cut corners
Cheap tape peels off or snaps under tension. Invest in quality packing tape to avoid frustrating re-dos or accidents during loading.
Pro tips:
- Use a tape gun or dispenser to speed up sealing and reduce waste.
- Reinforce the bottoms of all boxes with two or more strips of tape for added strength.
- Don’t forget to tape across the top seams, too — especially on heavier loads.
Foam padding and packing peanuts – for extra-fragile cargo
Foam inserts and packing peanuts are ideal when transporting ultra-sensitive items such as crystal, electronics, or collectibles.
Fill in gaps and corners to prevent movement during transit.
Use in combination with bubble wrap and strong boxes for layered protection.
Be mindful not to overuse — excessive packing peanuts can make unpacking messy and difficult.
Furniture covers and moving blankets – protect against scratches and scuffs
Protect larger pieces such as sofas, mattresses, dining tables, and dressers with the right coverings.
- Use stretch-wrap for upholstered furniture and fabric covers for mattresses.
- Moving blankets can cushion furniture during loading and prevent scrapes in tight doorways or stairwells.
- Tape or tie covers securely in place to avoid slippage during transport.
Labelling and organisation – don’t skip this step
The most overlooked packing tool is an organised labelling system. It can save hours of confusion at your new home.
- Colour-coded labels: Assign each room a colour and mark the corresponding boxes.
- Clear descriptions: Write contents on each box to avoid digging through everything later.
- Create an essentials box: Pack daily-use items (kettle, phone charger, toilet paper, etc.) and label this box for immediate access.
Pro tips:
- Don’t overfill boxes. Heavy boxes are more likely to break and harder to carry.
- Wrap and pad electronics well. Original packaging is ideal — if not, wrap securely in multiple layers and box separately.
- Use corner guards for framed art and mirrors. These inexpensive protectors prevent chips and cracks.
Final thoughts
Choosing the right packaging materials isn’t just about what you pack — it’s about how you pack. Properly protected items are far less likely to suffer damage, and a well-organised packing system makes loading, transport, and unpacking far easier.
At Best London Removals, we offer a full range of packing services and materials, from premium double-walled boxes to custom crate solutions for artwork and antiques. If you’re unsure what you need, our team is always happy to advise or provide everything as part of our tailored moving packages.
