12 Best Moving Supplies for Your Austin Move

Essential Items for a Smooth Transition

Moving can often feel like a daunting task, especially in a bustling city like Austin. Having the right moving supplies can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and efficient process. Choosing the best supplies will help you stay organized and minimize stress during your moving journey.

Austin offers a variety of resources and options when it comes to moving supplies. From high-quality boxes to essential packing materials, knowing where to find reliable products will set you up for success. Dive into our curated list of the 12 best moving supplies for your Austin move.

1) U-Haul Medium Moving Box

The U-Haul Medium Moving Box is a versatile option for various moving needs. It is ideal for packing household items such as decor, office supplies, toys, and medium kitchen appliances like toaster ovens and crock pots.

The dimensions of this box are 18 1/8" x 18" x 16" with a capacity of about 3 cubic feet. This size meets the shipping requirements of UPS, USPS, and FedEx, ensuring smooth transport.

With a weight capacity of up to 65 pounds, this box is sturdy and reliable. It is also 100% recyclable and reusable, making it an eco-friendly choice for environmentally conscious movers.

Its construction supports heavy loads without compromising integrity, providing peace of mind during the moving process. Whether storing or shipping, this medium box is designed to keep items secure and organized.

2) Duck Brand Bubble Wrap

Duck Brand Bubble Wrap is a top choice for protecting fragile items during a move. It features small and large size bubbles that conform easily around delicate and valuable items. This versatility makes it ideal for various packing needs, whether you're moving glassware, electronics, or collectibles.

The bubble wrap is perforated every 12 inches, allowing for easy tearing and efficient use. This feature ensures that you can quickly wrap items without wasting material. Its lightweight nature also contributes to cost-effective shipping and storage.

Reusable and high-quality, Duck Brand Bubble Wrap offers durability that stands up to multiple uses. This means you can rely on it for ongoing protection, whether you're moving once or storing items long-term. Available in rolls of varying lengths, it caters to different packing volumes and requirements.

3) Scotch Heavy Duty Packaging Tape

Scotch Heavy Duty Packaging Tape stands out as a reliable choice for securing boxes during your move. With a 3.0-mil thickness, this tape ensures that boxes remain sealed, even when handling heavy or bulky items.

It's designed to work well on various box types, including those made from 100% recycled materials. This feature is particularly useful for eco-conscious movers.

The strong, solvent-free adhesive used in this tape creates a firm seal that prevents boxes from opening. It's available in multiple roll sizes, making it versatile for different packing needs.

This tape is also recognized for its durability. Many users have noted that it holds up under pressure and doesn't peel away or tear, even when boxes are jostled during transit.

Additionally, Scotch Heavy Duty Packaging Tape comes with a dispenser, simplifying the process of applying the tape. This helps save time and reduces frustration during the hectic moving process.

For those seeking a trustworthy option for securing their belongings, this tape offers both strength and consistency. It's a dependable tool for ensuring that items arrive at their destination safely.

4) Dolly by Moving Men

A dolly is indispensable for any move. It provides an easy way to transport multiple boxes and heavy furniture with little effort.

Moving Men offers two types of dollies: a utility dolly and a furniture dolly. The utility dolly is perfect for stacking and moving several boxes at once.

The furniture dolly, on the other hand, is designed for bulky and heavy items like couches and dressers. This dolly makes it easy to maneuver large pieces without straining your back.

Both types of dollies from Moving Men are robust and reliable. They are crafted to handle substantial weight and can endure the demands of a move.

Renting a dolly can save time and reduce the number of trips you need to make. This is particularly useful in a city like Austin, where moving can be a challenge.

Using a dolly also helps protect your belongings from damage. It minimizes the chance of dropping items, which often happens when carrying heavy loads by hand.

For anyone planning a move in Austin, investing in a dolly from Moving Men is a smart choice. It ensures efficiency and safety during the moving process.

5) Weiman Furniture Movers

Weiman Furniture Movers are a reliable option for those looking to safely transport their furnishings during an Austin move. They offer specialized sliders designed to make moving heavy furniture effortless.

These sliders are crafted from durable materials, ensuring they last through multiple uses. Each pack typically includes various shapes and sizes, accommodating different types of furniture—ranging from sofas to dining tables.

The simplicity in their design makes them user-friendly. Place a slider under each leg of the furniture piece, and it glides smoothly across hard floors or carpets. This reduces the risk of damage to both furniture and flooring.

Another benefit of Weiman Furniture Movers is that they minimize physical strain. This makes them especially useful for those without professional moving help, enabling one person to handle bulky items with ease.

They are available at various local stores in Austin and can also be purchased online. The affordability and effectiveness of these sliders make them a worthwhile addition to your moving supplies.

6) SimpleHouseware Garment Rack

For those looking to keep their clothes organized during a move, the SimpleHouseware Garment Rack is an excellent choice. This portable rack is sturdy and designed to handle a significant amount of clothing.

This garment rack features a double rod, allowing for ample hanging space. It boasts a solid construction made with durable materials, ensuring that it can withstand the weight of heavier items.

Assembly is straightforward, making it convenient to set up and take down as needed. Its portability is a key advantage, allowing it to be easily relocated as moving demands change.

It's especially useful for those in temporary living situations, or for homes that need extra storage during transitions. Investing in a reliable garment rack like this can simplify the process of moving and organizing your belongings.

7) Sure-Max Moving Blankets

Sure-Max Moving Blankets offer robust protection for your belongings during a move. These blankets are quilted and come in different thicknesses to suit various needs. Whether you're moving across town or long-distance, Sure-Max provides durable coverage.

The Deluxe Pro version measures 80" x 72" and weighs 40 lb/dz, making it ideal for protecting furniture and other large items. The Heavy-Duty Pro variant is thicker and heavier, available in both 65 lb/dz and 90 lb/dz weights.

These blankets are not just for individual movers. Professional movers also find them reliable due to their high-quality materials and construction. Available in colors like royal blue and black, they add a professional touch to any move.

For those seeking budget-friendly options, the Pro Economy version is a lighter alternative weighing 35 lb/dz. Despite being lighter, this version still offers substantial protection.

All Sure-Max Moving Blankets are designed to shield items from scratches, dings, and other potential damages during transit. They can be purchased in packs of 12, making them a practical choice for both small and large moves.

8) Sharpie Permanent Markers

Sharpie Permanent Markers are essential for any move, providing a reliable way to label boxes clearly and efficiently. With their quick-drying, smear, and fade-resistant ink, these markers ensure that labels remain legible throughout the moving process.

Available in various tip sizes such as ultra-fine and chisel tip, Sharpie Permanent Markers cater to different labeling needs. The chisel tip markers are particularly useful for large, bold labels on moving boxes, while the ultra-fine point is ideal for detailed notes and smaller surfaces.

A pack of 12 markers offers great value and ensures that you're well-stocked for the entire moving process. The versatility of these markers allows them to work on multiple surfaces including paper, plastic, metal, and glass, making them useful beyond just moving days.

For those looking for a durable and reliable option, the Sharpie PRO Permanent Markers with extra-large chisel tips are a popular choice. They are designed to create clear, strong lines that are easy to read from a distance.

9) Large Vacuum Storage Bags by SpaceSaver

Large Vacuum Storage Bags by SpaceSaver offer an efficient solution for maximizing storage space during your move. These bags compress bulky items, such as comforters, blankets, and seasonal clothing, by removing excess air with a vacuum.

Made from durable, high-quality materials, these storage bags protect items from dust, moisture, and mildew. Their airtight seal ensures the integrity of your belongings, keeping them fresh and ready for use after unpacking.

Each pack includes a variety of sizes, including large and jumbo bags, accommodating different needs. The jumbo bags are particularly useful for storing bedding and other sizable items that typically take up significant space.

The convenience of vacuum storage bags lies in their ability to reduce volume by up to 80%, making room for more essential items in your moving boxes or suitcases. This feature not only saves space but also simplifies the packing process.

A simple hand pump is included, enabling easy compression without the need for bulky equipment. Alternatively, the bags are compatible with most standard vacuum cleaners for even quicker usage. This versatility makes them a practical tool for anyone preparing for a move.

10) Bankers Box SmoothMove Prime Moving Kit

The Bankers Box SmoothMove Prime Moving Kit is designed for efficiency and durability. It features FastFold technology, which allows for quick and easy assembly without the need for tape.

Each box is made from strong 32 ECT Kraft corrugated board, ensuring that it can withstand the rigors of moving. The double-end, double-bottom construction adds extra strength.

Comfortable handles make it easy to lift and carry these boxes, reducing the strain on your back. They are also reusable and recyclable, making them an environmentally friendly option.

These moving boxes come in various sizes, which allows for flexibility in packing different household items. Whether you are packing books, kitchenware, or clothes, these boxes offer ample storage space.

The design ensures that once the boxes are empty, they can be disassembled and stored flat until needed again. This feature saves space and makes them convenient to store.

Manufactured in the USA, the Bankers Box SmoothMove Prime Moving Kit provides a reliable solution for anyone preparing for a move. It combines sturdiness, ease of use, and sustainability.

11) Moving Straps by Forearm Forklift

Moving Straps by Forearm Forklift are designed to help make lifting heavy and bulky items safer and easier. These straps are often preferred by professionals for their ability to reduce the weight of the heaviest items, making them seem up to 66% lighter.

The Forearm Forklift straps encourage proper lifting techniques, thus minimizing the risk of back injuries. They are ergonomically designed and are the first moving straps to be accepted by OSHA for reducing potential injuries from heavy and repetitive lifting.

Durable and adjustable, these moving straps can handle items up to 800 lbs. Ideal for moving furniture, appliances, and other large items, the straps help to avoid scratches, scuffs, and dents on floors. They are available for purchase at various outlets including Amazon, U-Haul, and the official Forearm Forklift store.

Forearm Forklift offers variations like the MovXing Cradle and over-the-shoulder style straps, providing options for different moving needs. These moving tools are popular among homeowners and movers alike for their effectiveness and ease of use.

12) Interstate Woodworks Cedar Blocks

Interstate Woodworks Cedar Blocks are a practical addition to moving supplies. They naturally repel pests, such as moths, ensuring your clothes and fabrics stay safe during the move. These blocks are simple yet effective.

Cedar has a fresh, natural scent which helps keep stored items smelling pleasant. Every block is crafted to fit easily into boxes or drawers.

For those who value natural options, Interstate Woodworks Cedar Blocks are a top pick. They offer added protection without the use of chemicals, helping to maintain a clean and green move.

Adding these to your packing list can make a noticeable difference in maintaining your items' condition throughout the transition.

Packing Techniques

Effective packing techniques can save time and reduce stress during a move. Key considerations include methods for packing items efficiently and creating a labeling system to keep track of belongings.

Efficient Packing Methods

When packing for a move, using the right methods can make the process smoother. Begin by decluttering and sorting items, which reduces the total volume to pack. Pack heavier items at the bottom of boxes to create a stable base and lighter items on top to prevent crushing.

Utilize bubble wrap and packing paper to protect fragile items. Pack non-essentials first and essentials last to keep crucial items accessible. Disassemble large furniture whenever possible to save space and make moving easier. Use resealable plastic bags for small screws and parts and tape them to corresponding items.

Labeling System

A systematic labeling approach can greatly improve the efficiency of unpacking. Label each box with the room it belongs to and a brief description of its contents. This can be done using black permanent markers for clarity. Numbering boxes and keeping a list detailing their contents can further streamline the process.

Color-coded labels or tape can add another layer to the labeling system. For instance, use red for kitchen items and blue for bedroom items. This enables movers to quickly identify where boxes should be placed in the new location. Wardrobe boxes are especially useful for transporting clothes without losing track of garment types.

Transportation Tips

Selecting appropriate transportation for your move and effectively loading it are critical steps to ensure a smooth transition to your new Austin home.

Choosing the Right Vehicle

Choosing the right vehicle is crucial to accommodate all your belongings safely. For small moves, a pickup truck or small van may suffice. For larger moves, consider renting a box truck or hiring a professional moving service.

Hire trucks from reputable companies like U-Haul or Penske. Check the vehicle’s condition, fuel efficiency, and insurance coverage.

Vehicle Size Guide:

• Pickup Truck: Small apartments or single rooms.

• Cargo Van: Small to medium-sized apartments.

• 15'-20' Box Truck: Two to three-bedroom homes.

• 26' Box Truck: Four-bedroom homes or larger.

Loading Strategies

Strategic loading helps maximize space and protects your items. Start with the heaviest items like furniture and appliances, placing them against the walls to balance weight.

Use moving blankets to protect delicate items. Secure items with straps to prevent shifting.

Loading Tips:

• Place heavier items first: This ensures a stable base.

• Distribute weight evenly: Prevents tipping and improves vehicle handling.

• Utilize vertical space: Stack boxes and smaller items on top of sturdy bases.

• Protect fragile items: Use bubble wrap and packaging paper.

Maximize every square inch by filling gaps with smaller items or soft items like pillows.

Safety and Security

When moving, the safety and security of your belongings are paramount. Properly securing fragile items and taking safety precautions can help prevent accidents and damage.

Securing Fragile Items

To protect fragile items, using the right packing materials is crucial. Bubble wrap, packing peanuts, and foam sheets provide excellent cushioning. Wrap each item individually before placing it in a box, ensuring they don't touch each other.

Label each box containing fragile items with "FRAGILE" and "THIS SIDE UP." This signals movers to handle such boxes with care. For added security, double-boxing can provide an extra layer of protection.

Lastly, fill any empty spaces in the boxes with packing materials. This prevents items from shifting during transit, reducing the risk of breakage.

Safety Precautions

Ensuring personal safety during a move involves a few key steps. Wear appropriate footwear to protect your feet, and use gloves to handle heavy or sharp items. Clear pathways of any obstacles to avoid trips and falls.

Heavy lifting should be done using proper techniques. Bend your knees and keep your back straight to prevent injuries. For particularly heavy items, use moving equipment such as dollies and straps.

Additionally, it's important to check that all boxes are securely sealed with strong packing tape to prevent contents from falling out. Lastly, if you're hiring movers, verify their credentials and reviews to ensure they follow safety protocols.