How to Use Packing Materials the Right Way | Smart Moving Guide

Why the Right Packing Materials Matter

Efficient use of packing materials helps you:

• Speed up unpacking with clear labelling and organisation.
• Protect fragile items from impact and vibration.
• Prevent moisture or dust damage.
• Save money by avoiding overuse or waste.

Essential Packing Materials You’ll Need

Here’s a quick reference table to help you understand what each material is best suited for:

Material	Purpose	Best Used For
Cardboard Boxes	Structure & containment	General items, books, clothing
Bubble Wrap	Cushioning & shock absorption	Glassware, electronics, fragile decor
Packing Paper	Surface protection & wrinkle reduction	Plates, dishes, anti-scratch wrapping
Packing Peanuts / Foam	Filling gaps in boxes	Small gaps around fragile items
Plastic Stretch Wrap	Securing drawers & furniture	Dressers, wardrobes, chairs
Packing Tape	Sealing & reinforcing	All boxes and wrappings
Labels & Markers	Identification	Room labels, fragile warnings

Pro Tip:
Invest in double-walled boxes for heavy or fragile items — they provide extra strength without adding much cost.

How to Use Boxes Efficiently

Choose the right size:

• Small boxes → books, tools, small appliances.
• Medium boxes → kitchen items, toys, decor.
• Large boxes → light but bulky items (bedding, clothes).

Reinforce the bottom:
Use two layers of packing tape in a “+” shape for strength.

Distribute weight evenly:
Heavier items on the bottom, lighter on top.

Leave no empty space:
Fill gaps with crumpled paper or foam peanuts to prevent movement.

Mastering Bubble Wrap and Foam

Bubble Wrap Tips

• Bubbles face inwards to absorb impact.
• Wrap items twice for extra fragility (glass or porcelain).
• Secure wrap with tape — not too tight to avoid crushing.

Foam Sheets and Packing Peanuts

• Use foam sheets between plates and mirrors.
• Avoid using loose peanuts for very heavy items — they shift under weight.

Pro Mover’s Hack:
Use small bubble wrap for glassware and large bubble wrap for electronics and furniture corners.

Using Packing Paper Properly

Packing paper is versatile, eco-friendly and ideal for delicate items.

• Avoid using newspaper — the ink can smudge and stain surfaces.
• Line boxes with paper before placing items inside.
• Wrap each item individually.
• Crumple paper to fill gaps and prevent shifting.

Protecting Furniture and Large Items

Furniture requires different care than smaller items.

Item Type	Material to Use	Method
Wooden furniture	Plastic wrap + blankets	Wrap completely to avoid scratches
Sofas & mattresses	Plastic wrap or mattress covers	Keep clean and dust-free
Chairs & tables	Bubble wrap corners + blankets	Protect edges and legs
Appliances	Foam padding + strap securely	Prevent shifting in transit

Eco Tip:
Use old duvets or towels instead of plastic for extra padding — they’re washable and reusable.

Relevant Articles:

How to Pack Fragile Items Safely for Transport

Label Like a Pro

Correct labelling saves hours of guesswork later.

• Write the room name on every box.
• Add handling notes like “Fragile” or “This Side Up”.
• Use colour-coded stickers for each room.

Colour	Room
Blue	Kitchen
Yellow	Bedroom
Green	Living Room
Red	Fragile Items
Orange	Bathroom

Relevant Articles:

How to Label Boxes for an Easy Unpacking Process

Avoid These Common Mistakes

Mistake	Problem Caused	Correct Approach
Using used boxes for fragile items	Weak protection	Reserve sturdy boxes for delicate items
Over-taping boxes	Wastes tape, hard to open	One layer across centre is enough
Skipping labels	Confusion unpacking	Label each side clearly
Using newspaper for china	Ink transfer	Use acid-free packing paper
Mixing heavy and light items	Box collapse	Pack by weight category

Relevant Articles:

How to Avoid Common Packing Mistakes

Eco-Friendly Alternatives

Moving can generate waste, but there are green alternatives:

• Donate excess packing materials after the move.
• Reuse boxes from local shops or friends.
• Choose biodegradable packing.
• Use cloth bags for soft items.

Professional Packing Help

If you’re short on time or want maximum protection, hire experts.

Brilliant Removals London provides:

• Full or partial packing services
• Eco-friendly materials
• Furniture disassembly and wrapping
• Door-to-door insurance coverage

Professionals know exactly how to use each material — saving you money and stress while keeping your items safe.

Summary

Using packing materials the right way is an investment in a smooth move.
By understanding which material works best for each item and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll save space, time and stress.

Whether you’re moving across London or relocating long distance, Brilliant Removals offers professional packing and moving services tailored to your needs — ensuring your belongings arrive safely and efficiently.

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