Moving to a new apartment in Plano can be exciting—but let’s be honest, the packing process is rarely anyone’s favorite part. Whether you’re relocating across town or making a long-distance move, the packing materials you choose can make the difference between a smooth, stress-free experience and a frustrating one filled with broken items and messy boxes.
At The Move Place, we’ve seen firsthand how important the right supplies are. This guide will walk you through the best packing materials for apartments, why they matter, and how they simplify your move.
Why Packing Materials Matter
Packing isn’t just about throwing things in boxes. It’s about protecting your belongings, keeping everything organized, and making both loading and unpacking easier. Using the wrong supplies—or not enough—can result in:
- Damaged electronics and fragile items.
- Boxes that collapse or rip during the move.
- Wasted time looking for essentials because boxes aren’t labeled or organized.
- Extra stress during an already stressful time.
Investing in the right packing materials upfront saves you time, money, and headaches later.
The Best Packing Materials for Apartment Moves
Here are the essential materials every Plano apartment mover should consider:
1. Sturdy Moving Boxes
Not all boxes are created equal. While grocery store boxes might work in a pinch, professional-grade moving boxes are designed to handle heavy loads without falling apart.
- Small boxes (1.5 cu. ft.): Perfect for books, canned goods, and heavy items.
- Medium boxes (3 cu. ft.): Great for kitchenware, shoes, and small appliances.
- Large boxes (4.5 cu. ft. and up): Ideal for lightweight but bulky items like bedding, pillows, and linens.
- Wardrobe boxes: These tall boxes come with a hanging bar, making it easy to move clothes directly from your closet.
2. Bubble Wrap and Packing Paper
Fragile items need cushioning. Bubble wrap protects dishes, electronics, and collectibles, while packing paper is perfect for wrapping glassware or filling empty spaces in boxes to prevent shifting.
Pro Tip: Avoid using newspaper—it can leave ink stains on your items.
3. Packing Tape and Dispensers
Heavy-duty packing tape is essential for sealing boxes securely. Don’t skimp on tape; cheap tape peels easily and weakens under pressure. A tape dispenser can also save time and frustration.
4. Plastic Wrap (Stretch Wrap)
Plastic stretch wrap is one of the most underrated moving materials. It keeps furniture drawers closed, bundles items together, and protects surfaces from scratches. Movers use it to wrap dressers, couches, and tables quickly and effectively.
5. Mattress and Furniture Covers
If you’re moving into or out of a Plano apartment building, you’ll likely encounter narrow hallways, stairwells, or elevators. Mattress bags and furniture covers protect your items from dirt, dust, and accidental rips while being moved through tight spaces.
6. Labels and Markers
Organization is key. Labels and permanent markers help you identify which box belongs in which room. Some movers also use color-coded labels (e.g., red for kitchen, blue for living room) to make unpacking even easier.
7. Specialty Packing Kits
For apartments, certain items require specialty kits, such as:
- Dish pack boxes with dividers.
- Picture and mirror boxes.
- TV boxes designed for flat-screen protection.
These kits are worth it when it comes to protecting high-value, fragile belongings.
8. Moving Blankets
Professional movers rely on moving blankets to wrap and protect furniture. They provide padding that reduces scratches and dents during transport. Even if you’re handling the move yourself, renting or purchasing a few can be a lifesaver.
DIY vs Professional Packing Materials
You may wonder: Should I buy packing supplies myself or rely on movers to bring them?
- DIY supplies: Cheaper, but quality can vary. You’ll need to spend time finding the right materials.
- Professional supplies (from local movers like The Move Place): Higher-quality, durable, and often included in packing services. Movers also know how to maximize efficiency using these materials.
For Plano residents with busy schedules, professional packing services often save both time and money in the long run.
How to Save Money on Packing Materials
Apartment moves can get expensive, but here are a few ways to cut costs without sacrificing safety:
- Declutter before moving: The fewer items you pack, the fewer supplies you need.
- Reuse boxes: Ask neighbors or local stores for gently used moving boxes.
- Mix DIY with professional supplies: Buy basics like tape and labels yourself but rely on movers for specialty materials.
- Rent supplies: Some local moving companies rent wardrobe boxes, moving blankets, and dollies.
Packing Tips for Apartment Moves in Plano
- Start early: Don’t wait until the week of your move to begin packing.
- Pack one room at a time: Keeps things organized and manageable.
- Keep essentials separate: Pack a “first night” bag with toiletries, clothes, and chargers.
- Label clearly: Write the destination room and contents on each box.
- Don’t overload boxes: Keep them under 50 lbs for easier lifting.
Why Plano Residents Choose The Move Place
The Move Place specializes in apartment moving services in Plano, TX, including professional packing and unpacking help. Our team brings the right supplies, experience, and equipment to ensure your belongings are safe from start to finish.
Services include:
- Apartment and residential moves.
- Local and long-distance moving.
- Packing/unpacking services.
- Loading/unloading and storage solutions.
When you hire us, you don’t have to worry about sourcing the best packing materials—we’ve already got everything you need.
Final Thoughts
The packing materials you choose can make or break your moving experience. Investing in sturdy boxes, protective wraps, covers, and labels will not only protect your belongings but also make unpacking faster and more organized.
For residents in Plano, the easiest way to ensure a stress-free move is to combine quality packing materials with the expertise of local movers like The Move Place. Whether you want full-service packing or just a little extra help, we’re here to simplify your move.
