Move/WorkbookEstimate boxes
Tools/Packing supplies calculator
Shopping list / Packaging materials

What packing supplies do you need?

Turn your box count and special-item inventory into a transparent starting list for sealing, labeling, cushioning, and protecting the load.

What you are packing

Start with the box estimate, then add special items.

Already know only the room count?

Use the moving box calculator first. This tool deliberately starts from an actual box estimate instead of guessing the same inventory twice.

Packaging formats vary. Compare the unit size before buying.

Supply ticketPACK—040
Shopping list for40 boxes
ASeal & labelQTY
Heavy-duty tape rolls6
Box labels40
Permanent markers2
BCushion & protectQTY
Packing paper (lb)10
50-ft bubble-wrap rolls3
Corner protectors16
CFurniture & specialtyQTY
Furniture pads13
Stretch-wrap rolls2
Mattress bags2
Picture / mirror boxes4
Hardware bags4
WARDROBE NOTEConfirm 3 hanging bars are included

Wardrobe-box bundles do not always include the bar, so check the product description.

Buy most, then keep a returnable reserve

Do not open every package. Unused sealed supplies are easier to return.

See the model ↓

How the supply estimate works

This calculator avoids pretending every household needs the same “moving kit.” It starts from the boxes and special items you expect to pack, then estimates each material by its actual use.

Why one bundle rarely fits every move

A bundle optimized around medium cartons may leave you short of small boxes for books, protection for furniture, or packaging for mattresses and framed pieces. Count boxes first, then add specialty protection based on inventory.

Core assumptionstape ≈ boxes ÷ 8 · paper ≈ fragile boxes × 0.75 lb + general fill · bubble wrap ≈ fragile boxes × 12 ft + framed pieces × 10 ft

Furniture pads, stretch wrap, mattress bags, picture boxes, and hardware bags are calculated separately.

Compare package sizes

“One roll” is not a standard quantity. Before buying, compare tape length and width, bubble-wrap roll length and bubble size, packing-paper weight, pad dimensions, and mattress-bag depth. The quantity on the result assumes common retail-sized packages but does not replace product specifications.

Use the list with the inventory, not instead of it

Start with the moving box calculator if you have not yet estimated the carton mix; this tool is designed to turn that result into materials. Then use the fragile-items packing guide for glass, ceramics, electronics, and other breakables that need a packing method, not just more material. Record specialty items, supply purchases, and boxes still needed in the printable moving planner workbook.

Material safety: Follow object-specific instructions. Plastic wrap can trap moisture or affect some finishes, newsprint can transfer ink, and adhesive should not be applied directly to furniture or artwork unless approved for that surface.
Common questions

Before buying the bundle

How much tape should I buy for moving boxes?

The answer depends on box construction, tape width, carton condition, and whether you reinforce the bottom. This calculator starts around one roll per eight boxes and adds a small allowance for specialty packing.

Should bubble wrap replace packing paper?

No. They serve different purposes. Paper fills voids and wraps many ordinary breakables; bubble wrap adds cushioning for selected fragile or irregular items. Avoid placing plastic bubble wrap directly against delicate finishes unless the manufacturer recommends it.

Do moving companies provide furniture pads?

Policies vary. Some rentals or movers include pads, some rent them separately, and others require you to supply protection. Confirm the quantity, cost, and return terms in writing.