Category: Moving

Moving and storage go hand in hand. Oftentimes storage centers will let you borrow their moving truck.

Safely Moving and Storing a Glass Table

Post author By Aaron
Post date April 23, 2023

Glass tables are a beautiful addition to any home. They add a touch of sophistication and modernity to your living space.

However moving and storing a glass table can be a challenging task.

The heavy weight and fragile nature of glass makes it more susceptible to damage during transport.

Today we’ll cover some expert tips on how to safely move and store your glass table.

A friend of mine had a glass table that we moved from his house to a new apartment.

It was a large glass table that he had used as a dining table. It was so heavy and awkward to move.

He had heard horror stories of broken glass tables during transport, and he didn’t want that to happen to him.

So he got advice from a professional mover who gave him tips on how to safely move the table.

He used a heavy-duty box with double-wall protection to hold the glass tabletop. He added double blankets to the bottom and wrapped the glass table like candy. Afterward, he used another blanket to wrap the glass table and repeated the candy wrap process.

He also added more padding to the sides of the box to prevent the glass table from moving and rattling during transport.

When it was time to load the glass table onto the truck, he remembered to place it on its side and never on top or at the front.

He also strapped the boxes tightly together to prevent them from moving during transport.

By the time we got to apartment, we unpacked the glass table and it was in perfect condition.

That we a very successful move. I have elaborated those steps further in the information that follows.

Step 1: Padding and Wrapping

The first step to safely move and store your glass table is to pad and wrap it. This will provide an extra layer of protection over the glass.

To begin, use a heavy-duty box with double-wall protection to hold the glass tabletop. It is essential to ensure that the box is sturdy enough to hold the weight of the glass.

I’ve been lucky enough to find adequate boxes at the UHaul office. They have a wide range of unusual sizes for televisions, paintings and other specialty items.

Start by placing the box on the floor, add double blankets to the bottom (if there’s enough room). Then, place the glass on top and wrap it like candy with tape on top.

Afterward, use another blanket to wrap the glass table and repeat the candy wrap process.

This will create a “pillow” effect and ensure that the glass table is protected during transport.

Additionally, add more padding to the sides of the box, leaving no empty spaces. This will prevent the glass table from moving and rattling during transport.

Step 2: Stacking and Strapping

Once the glass tabletop is safely wrapped and padded, it’s time to load it onto the truck.

When loading, always remember to put the glass tabletop on its side, never on top or at the front.

This will prevent the glass from falling during transport — or from having something drop on to it or being stepped on.

Ensure that you place small straps on the side of the boxes and strap them together. This way, the boxes will not move and bump into each other while in transit.

It is crucial to take note of how to stock the glass table in the truck or trailer. Always place the glass table on its side and never on top or at the front.

When driving, apply the brake gently, especially when going downhill, to avoid creating too much pressure that can cause the glass to break.

Additionally, strap the glass table tightly to prevent it from sliding and bumping into other items.

Step 3: Unpacking

Unpacking a glass table after moving it in a moving truck requires some care and attention to ensure that it is not damaged.

Here are some steps to follow:

Before opening the box, inspect it for any signs of damage or mishandling during the move. If the box looks damaged, open it carefully and check the contents for damage.

Look for a clean and level surface where you can safely unpack the glass table. A carpeted or padded surface is ideal to prevent scratches or cracks.

Open the box carefully and remove the packing materials, such as bubble wrap or moving blankets.

If you disassembled the table before moving, reassemble it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you did not disassemble the table, carefully lift it out of the box.

Use a microfiber cloth and a glass cleaner to clean the glass thoroughly before setting it up. This will ensure that there is no dirt or dust on the glass that can scratch or damage it.

Once you have cleaned the glass, carefully place the table in its designated location. Make sure the surface is level and stable to prevent the table from tipping over.

By following these steps, you can safely unpack your glass table after moving it in a moving truck and protect it from damage.

Storing a Glass Table

When it comes to storing a glass table, there are a few important things to keep in mind to ensure it doesn’t break.

Here are some tips to help you keep your glass table safe and sound:

First, give the glass a good cleaning before storing it. Use a microfiber cloth and a specialized glass cleaner to remove any dirt or dust from the glass top and sides. This will prevent any scratches or damage from occurring during storage.

If possible, try to disassemble the table before storing it. This will make it easier to pack and protect each individual piece.

And when wrapping the glass, use bubble wrap or moving blankets to cushion and protect the table top and any other glass components. Be sure to wrap each piece separately to avoid them rubbing against each other and causing damage.

Consider using a double-wall box for added protection. These boxes are stronger than regular boxes and provide an extra layer of security for your glass table.

Once you’ve packed the box, be sure to label it as “fragile” and “glass” to indicate that it needs to be handled with care.

When storing the box, keep it upright rather than laying it flat. This will prevent any pressure from being applied to the glass, which could cause it to break.

And if you’re storing your glass table for an extended period, choose a climate-controlled storage unit. This will help to prevent any damage to the glass by controlling the temperature and humidity levels.

By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your glass table remains safe and sound during transport and storage. So go ahead and pack it up with confidence, knowing that you’ve taken the necessary steps to protect your precious piece of furniture.

Tags moving storage

Safely Moving and Storing Your Refrigerator

Post author By Aaron
Post date April 21, 2023

Moving can be stressful and exciting at the same time. In my last move, one of the more stressful things was moving the large appliances — especially the refrigerator.

Whether you’re moving to a new home or putting your refrigerator in storage, it’s important to know how to do the process safely and properly.

Here’s your step-by-step guide to help you safely move and store your refrigerator, without causing any damage or worse, injury.

Let’s get started with a story…

My Story about Moving Our Refrigerator

For me, moving is a stressful time. Moving a refrigerator is no exception.

I learned this lesson the hard way a few years ago when I decided to move my fridge from my old house to a new one.

I thought it would be a simple thing of just unplugging the fridge, wheeling it out to the moving truck and then wheeling it into the new home.

But as soon as I tried to move it, I realized it really is heavy, even with friends helping.

By the time we got the refrigerator outside the old house, I was already exhausted. I started to wonder if we could even get it onto the truck.

After catching a breath, we persevered. I strapped the fridge onto the dolly and clamped it down. Then slowly made our way to the moving truck.

Once we got it onto the truck, and were moving on the road — I breathed a sigh of relief. I really thought the hard part was over.

But as we drove to the new house, I couldn’t help worry about the fridge falling or getting damaged during the journey. At this point I noticed every pothole and bump in the road — I did not remember those being there before.

Fortunately, we made it to the new house without incident. It was a challenge trying to slowly go down the ramp with the refrigerator but with a little back and forth, we slowly eased it down the ramp and got it set in the new place.

Looking back… I wish I had known then what I now know about safely moving a refrigerator.

When I saw what my piano mover was able to do, I then realized that with the right tools and techniques, it’s possible to move even the heaviest of objects and appliances without too much stress and worry.

Hopefully my information below from the experience I gleaned can be of benefit to you in your move.

Preparing Your Refrigerator for Moving

The first step in safely moving and storing a refrigerator is to prepare it for the move.

Here’s what you need to do to make it a less stressful move:

Fridge Prep Work

The first thing you need to do is remove all the food, drinks and ice from your fridge.

Pack food items into boxes — or donate to charity.

Once all the food is removed, clean all the surfaces and start defrosting the fridge. It’s important to defrost because any humidity in the fridge might cause mildew, which could damage to your refrigerator while moving.

The humidity can also cause dust to collect, which can later cause your refrigerator to not cool well.

Cleaning the refrigerator.

Cleaning the Refrigerator

Once your refrigerator is empty, clean the inside and outside of the fridge. Take out all of your drawers and shelves and soak them in warm soapy water.

You can also wipe down the inside of your fridge using a little bit of baking soda and water. Just don’t use anything that’s too abrasive, like ammonia or chlorine bleach.

Wipe down the outside of your fridge as well.

Clean off the refrigerator coils.

Clean Off the Coils

Dust off the coils on the back of the fridge with a vacuum cleaner or a dry cloth. What I do is dust off the back and then take the host from the shop vac and pull out any dust. Be sure the refrigerator is unplugged before touching the back with a cloth or vacuum hose.

The hardware store sells long pointy bristle brushes that are very effective to remove dust behind the refrigerator and underneath. This will help your fridge run efficiently.

Disconnect the Drainage Line

If your fridge is connected to a drainage line, disconnect it before you move your fridge. Also watch out for any inline filters or filters inside your refrigerator — each should be removed. Check to make sure the ice tray is empty.

Defrost Your Fridge

To start the defrosting process, go ahead and unplug your refrigerator. Make sure you put some towels down on the ground around the fridge to catch any water that might drip.

You want to do this about a week before you actually put your fridge in storage, because you want to make sure that it’s completely dry.

If you don’t, and your fridge still has some moisture inside, you create an environment where mold might grow excessively.

Moving Your Refrigerator to a Storage Unit

Once you’ve prepared your refrigerator for storage, it’s time to move it. Remember that it’s best to keep the refrigerator as upright as possible to maintain the integrity of the inner workings.

You’re not supposed to lay a refrigerator down. But if it happens, try to get it back upright as quick as possible.

Here’s the moving process:

Having Correct Equipment

To move your refrigerator, you’ll need furniture sliders or plywood panels, an appliance dolly with straps, furniture blankets, rope, packing tape, measuring tape, work gloves and at least two or three strong reliable people to help you out.

Planning Your Escape Route

Measure the width and height of your refrigerator and compare it with all the openings and pathways on the way out.

Make sure to clear all the doors so moving it will be as non-problematic as it can possibly be. You might have to take a door off the hinges if you need the extra clearance.

Protecting Your Floors

You’ll want to protect your floors when moving a refrigerator. This would be for the place that the refrigerator is leaving and for the place where it will be newly relocated.

Sometimes renting or buying plywood panels or specific covers for floors is very essential. You can rent or buy those at any close Home Depot store.

We also found that Ross and TJ Maxx have those moving dots that you can slip under furniture and appliances to keep the feet from scuffing floors. Those are a great help and very affordable.

Moving the Refrigerator

Close down the refrigerator door and put rubber tapes on all parts of the power cord that might be sticking out or that could get damaged during the move.

Then, put a dolly underneath it. Make sure that you tilt it back very slowly and very carefully, and you will be able to take it out of your house by pushing it and getting it down the stairs or wherever you want it to be.

Make sure that you never tilt the refrigerator more than 45 degrees up or down, or you risk losing your balance.

Also, keep in mind that by the Department of Transportation regulations, you never can put the refrigerator on its side. It is dangerous and unlawful.

Moving truck with ramp.

Safely Loading a Refrigerator onto a Moving Truck

Now that the refrigerator is out of its old location — if you are not using professional movers — you’ll need to load it up onto the truck.

Here are some tips on how to safely load and unload the refrigerator onto the truck.

Prepare the refrigerator for loading

Doublecheck and make sure all the drawers and shelves are secured safely with tape to prevent them from falling during transportation.

You should also tape the refrigerator doors shut to prevent them from opening during transportation.

Use good condition equipment

When it comes to moving a refrigerator, it’s crucial to have the right equipment.

Make sure to rent or buy an appliance dolly with straps to safely move the refrigerator without damaging it or hurting yourself.

Furniture blankets (or padding) can be used to protect the refrigerator and the moving truck from damage and scratches during the move.

Loading the refrigerator onto the truck

As you may have guessed, make sure you have a clear path from the front door to the truck.

You should have already had someone else help you load the refrigerator onto the dolly. Once you have the secured refrigerator on the dolly, tilt it slightly backward and push towards the truck.

We encourage you to use a moving truck with a ramp for this. We encourage you to always have help in this process.

Here’s a video showing what to do:

Unload the refrigerator from the moving truck

Unloading the refrigerator from the moving truck requires the same level of care as it did while loading it.

Make sure you have a clear path from the truck to the new location of the refrigerator.

Use the dolly to move the refrigerator, keeping it level to prevent damage.

Here’s a video to demonstrate:

We encourage you to always have help in this process.

Be careful when navigating through tight corners, and make sure that the refrigerator does not touch any walls or doorframes.

Once you have reached the final destination, carefully remove the straps and the blankets, and then proceed to untape the doors.

Correctly storing the refrigerator.

How to Prepare a Refrigerator for Storage

Once you’ve safely transported your refrigerator to your storage location, it’s important to prepare and store it properly to avoid damage and ensure that it remains in good working condition.

Here are some tips to help you do just that:

Keep it upright

Just like during transport, it’s important to keep your refrigerator upright while in storage. This will prevent any damage to the condenser or compressor, which can happen if the fridge is tilted at an angle.

Leave the door open

To prevent any musty smells or mold growth, it’s a good idea to leave the doors of the refrigerator slightly open while in storage.

This will allow it to breathe for proper air circulation and ventilation. This step is also handy for washing machines – to leave them open to ventilate.

You can use a piece of cardboard tube or a coat hanger to help keep the door propped open.

Use protective covering

You can use blankets, towels or specialized refrigerator covers to protect your fridge from scratches, dents and other damage while it’s in storage.

Avoid temperature extremes

While it’s not strictly necessary to have climate control for your storage unit, you should avoid exposing your fridge to extreme temperatures. This means avoiding areas that are subject to direct sunlight or freezing temperatures.

Check periodically

Even if you don’t need to use your refrigerator for a while, it’s important to check on it periodically to make sure everything is okay.

This can be as simple as making sure the doors are still slightly open, and that there are no signs of damage or wear.

So my advice:

Try not to stress out about moving the refrigerator.

Take your time and plan it out.

Make it a moving party with some food for your friends and do the move in staggered moments — so you can catch your breath.

Focus on safety.

Remember to clean, defrost, and dust off your fridge before moving it, and do your absolute best to keep it upright during transportation and storage.

Having a good strong dolly with a strap and handle that then clamps to your appliances is a huge help. Now I know to get a dolly with those larger pneumatic tires — those bigger tires really give you added leverage and makes the job so much easier and comforting.

By following these tips, you can successfully move your refrigerator and keep it in top condition for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

What about moving a refrigerator by yourself?

Imagine a close relative just moved into a home and needs a refrigerator — and you happen to have an extra one you can loan out.

You’ve got to move the refrigerator — and want to do it quickly. What to do when you need help moving a refrigerator and can’t find anyone quickly enough. Do you just try to move it by yourself…

Moving a refrigerator by yourself is generally not something you want to be doing. You’ve got that heavy weight to consider, the bulky size and even the complexity of the appliance.

A refrigerator can weigh anywhere from 200 to 500 pounds — moving it incorrectly can cause injury or damage to the refrigerator or your home.

It’s better to get some help for these reasons:

Personal Safety: Refrigerators are heavy and bulky. You could potentially injure yourself if the refrigerator falls or if you strain under its weight.
Property Safety: Trying to move a refrigerator by yourself increases the risk of damaging floors, walls, or the refrigerator itself.
Complexity: Refrigerators need to be prepared before moving. This includes defrosting, cleaning, and securing the doors, which is easier to do with another person.
Installation: Once you reach your destination, you’ll also need to maneuver it into place and connect it to the power and water supplies, which can be difficult alone.

If you need to move a refrigerator, think about recruiting some friends (or even hiring professionals). If there’s absolutely no other option and you must move it by yourself, consider using special equipment like a dolly and those special straps to help you move safely.

No matter what, there’s always significant risk involved. Be safe and ask for help.

Tags moving storage, refrigerator

Moving

How to Save Up Money to Move Out (2023)

Post author By Aaron
Post date December 24, 2022

Moving out of your home can be a daunting task, especially if you don’t have the financial resources to do so.

There might also be emotional challenges to deal with if you’re forced to move quickly.

While low cost moving can seem like an impossible dream, it can actually be possible — and sometimes quicker and better than you’d expect.

With careful planning and creative problem-solving, you can make the transition from living at home to living independently without breaking the bank.

Below we discuss how to move out with no money and provide tips for making it happen.

A thought out plan can help save time & money.

Have a Plan

Before you move out, it’s important to have a plan in place for how you will support yourself financially. Consider what type of job you can get, if you need to find roommates to help with rent, or if there are any government assistance programs that could help.

Plan to save yourself some money.

How to Save Up Money to Move Out: Example Plan

Moving out can be an exciting and liberating experience, but it can also be quite expensive.

Here are some tips on how to save up money to move out:

Set a budget: Determine how much money you need to save to move out and create a budget to achieve that goal. This will help you track your expenses and identify areas where you can cut back.
Reduce expenses: Look for ways to reduce your expenses such as cutting back on dining out, canceling subscriptions you don’t use, and buying second-hand items instead of new ones.
Find a side hustle: Consider finding a part-time job or side hustle to increase your income. This could include freelancing, pet-sitting, or delivering food.
Sell unwanted items: Sell items you no longer need or use such as clothing, electronics, or furniture. Use online marketplaces such as eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace to make some extra cash.
Save automatically: Set up automatic transfers from your checking account to a savings account each month. This way, you won’t have to remember to save and the money will grow over time.
Live with roommates: Consider living with roommates to split rent and other living expenses. This can be a great way to save money and build friendships.
Look for move-in specials: When you’re ready to move out, look for move-in specials at apartment complexes. Many offer discounts or waived application fees for new residents.

Remember, moving out requires careful planning and budgeting.

Focus on Saving Money

Once you have the plan in place, it’s time to start saving money. Look for ways to cut back on expenses and save as much as possible.

Consider taking on a part-time job or selling items you no longer need. You can also look into government assistance programs that may be able to help with rent or other living expenses.

When it comes to moving, sometimes you need to think outside the box.

Get Creative

Think outside the box when it comes to finding ways to make money. Finding a different way to solve the problem might just save some money.

Outside the box thinking could include looking into side hustles, using bartering services — or even taking on odd jobs to help cover your expenses.

Borrowing a vehicle from a family member can help.

Find (or Borrow) Free Moving Resources

There are many free resources available that can help you with the process of moving out without any money. These include free storage options, furniture donations from friends and family members, borrowing a truck from a family member — and even free moving boxes from local stores or online sources (some UHaul locations have slightly used moving boxes they give out for free).

Making connections can help you to track down the things you need for your move.

Make Connections

Networking is key when it comes to finding resources and support while moving out without any money. Reach out to family members and friends who may be able to provide financial assistance or offer help moving out.

Come up with a budget and stick to it.

Budget Carefully

When working with a tight budget, it’s important to be mindful of where your money is going. Create a budget and stick to it, so you can ensure that all of your expenses are covered without overspending.

By following these tips, you can make the transition from living at home to living independently without breaking the bank.

Moving out with no money may seem like an impossible dream, but with careful planning, help moving out and creative problem-solving, it’s possible.

Tags help moving out, move, moving storage

Moving Storage

Moving Storage Tips (2023)

Post author By Aaron
Post date October 29, 2022
No Comments on Moving Storage Tips (2023)

Moving can be hard to organize. Regardless of why you’re moving, it can be challenging to get everything you own out of one place and into another. It takes time and effort — but it’s worth it.

However, there are ways to make moving easier while taking some of the stress out of it.

Moving Storage Tips to Make it Easier

You don’t want to wing it when moving. It’s best to come up with a solid plan ahead of time. We’ve created a moving checklist to ensure you don’t miss any important steps before you move.

Having help with moving makes the job easier.

Moving is stressful enough without having to worry about your belongings. You need to know that they will arrive at their destination in good condition.

That means packing them properly so nothing gets damaged during transit.

Ways to Make Moving Easier

One of the main ways to make moving easier is to avoid waiting until the last minute to start organizing your move. It’s less stressful by planning ahead — and the information below can help.

As with any move, be prepared for unexpected delays. For example, don’t schedule a big family event on the same day you’re moving. Along those lines, consider moving during the easier seasons. If the weather is bad in the summer or fall — try to plan in spring for your move. Although many moves aren’t as simple as that, if you do have a choice it could make things less stressful.

Below are additional tips all about moving your home or apartment. It all starts by setting the date…

Committing to a firm moving day as a way to plan everything around that date.

Commit to a Firm Moving Date

Commit to a set date and then plan everything around that move date. Mark it on your calendar. Double check to make the moving truck is ready for that date and that your new place is ready. If you plan to use self storage for an interim part of the move, make sure that is ready too.

Pack Your Belongings Properly

Packing boxes should be labeled clearly with your name and address. Label each box with what’s inside and where it goes. This way, if anything gets lost or misplaced, you’ll have a record of what was packed in which box.

Do one room at a time. It’s hard to get everything done in one day. Start by doing one room at a time and work your way through the house.

When moving an entire home, there can be more boxes than expected.

Make Sure Everything Is Ready

If you’re planning to pack yourself, you may not realize how much stuff you have until you start unpacking. Take inventory of all your possessions and see what needs to be moved. Do this well before you begin packing.

If you’re hiring movers, make sure they have everything they need to do the job right. They should have boxes, tape, bubble wrap, blankets, dollies, and other supplies.

Switch Utilities and Home Services

Contact your utilities company and arrange for a service switch. After you’ve gotten the firm moving date set for your move, call all of your utilities (electricity, gas, etc.) to ensure they’re ready for when you arrive.

Tell them that you’re moving and that you want arrange for a switch of the service location on your moving day.

That way, everything will be ready for when you move into your new place. Make sure they’ll also disconnect your previous service from your old place so you won’t be charged extra.

Most utility providers will let you switch over easily without interrupting your services.

If you’re planning to move to a new area where there are different service providers, research reviews online and choose the provider that sounds best. Contact the service providers then schedule to have your services turned on.

Have A Plan For Storage

Once you’ve decided to move, you need to figure out a plan where you’re going to store your belongings. Self-storage facilities offer short term solutions. They provide secure space for storing your belongings while you look for a permanent solution.

Don’t Forget Insurance

For your moving plan, it’s always smart to insure your property while you’re still living in your old house. The same applies after you move. Make sure you have insurance coverage for both your personal items as well as your business. A quick call to your insurance agent can cover this.

How to Move Your Belongings

Start With Boxes

Using boxes. If you have the space, use boxes instead of plastic bags. Use bubble wrap where necessary. This will protect fragile items from damage. Boxes are much more durable than plastic bags. They also provide better protection from dust and moisture.

Labeling boxes. Include the contents inside the box and write down what needs to go where. This makes unpacking much faster and easier. Label boxes according to room and then by category. For example, put kitchenware in the kitchen, bedding in the bedroom, and clothes in the closet. This helps keep things organized.

Packing items separately. Pack heavy items first — heavy items take up more room. Put fragile items like china inside larger boxes. Items that won’t break easily, such as books, clothing, and paper products, can stay in smaller boxes.

Use tape. Tape boxes shut and label each one clearly. Make sure you include the address on the outside of the box.

Avoid using plastic bags as they can tear and leave sharp edges. They also trap moisture and attract insects.

Moving Your Clothing

Pack clothes separately and into labeled garment bags. As part of your plan, make sure you pack clothing separately from other items.

Make sure you pack shoes separately. Shoes can get dirty quickly. When you unpack them, you’ll have to wash them.

Keep your clothing clean. Wash all clothes before packing them away.Don’t forget socks. Socks can get lost if not packed carefully.

Store linens separately. Linen can be expensive, especially if you buy new sheets every month. Packing linen together keeps it safe and prevents wrinkling.

Pack towels separately. Towels can get stained or torn over time. Storing them together allows them to dry out.

Moving Smaller Items

Keep small items together. Small items like jewelry, coins, and stamps can be stored in special containers. These items can then be kept together while you unpack.

Store loose papers in file folders. Folders keep papers flat and protect them from damage.

Moving Furniture and Large Items

Arrange furniture carefully. Don’t pack heavy objects on top of light ones. Also, avoid stacking boxes on top of each other.

For your plan, allow time to wrap bulky items. Wrapping large items like mattresses helps prevent damage.

Moving Appliances and Electronics

Take care when moving appliances and electronics. Make sure you have any needed furniture dollys and moving pads.

Be careful with electrical cords. Keep them wrapped in a protective cover – even the cardboard tubes with the toilet paper removed can be used to keep a cord together.

Protect electronic devices. Place them in a sturdy box or case. Move computers and monitors carefully. Computers and monitors are delicate. Wrap the cables tightly and be sure to store them in a cool place.

Keep in mind that dangling cords can become tangled and trip people. Wrap them individually and tie them securely.

Remove batteries from appliances. Batteries can leak and cause fires if not removed prior to shipping. Put similar batteries together in plastic bags so you can put them back into their respective electronics after the move.

Keeping Records

Take photos of every room. This way, you’ll remember what was in each room and what you moved.

Create a list of all the things you need to do before you move. Then cross off tasks as you complete them.

Get rid of junk mail. Junk mail can clog up your mailbox and slow down delivery services.

Waste Disposal

Dispose of trash responsibly. Trash needs to be disposed of properly to avoid attracting pests and causing environmental problems.

If you’re renting, ask your landlord for permission to dispose of trash at the curb. You may be charged extra for disposing of garbage in your building’s dumpster.

Contact local authorities about waste disposal regulations. Some communities require residents to use their own trash cans. Others allow residents to use community-provided bins.

You might want to consider hiring a professional to take care of waste removal. Hiring a professional will save you money and ensure that everything is taken care of properly.

Recycle paper, cardboard, glass, metal, and plastics. Many towns offer curbside recycling programs. Check with your local government for details.

It’s easy to accumulate things over the years. But once you move, you no longer need these items. Get rid of them now. Don’t wait until you’re packing to throw away something you never used.

Professional movers can speed things up

Movers and Moving Trucks

Professional movers can take care of most of the heavy lifting involved in moving. They can make your life a lot easier. Moving is stressful enough without having to worry about packing and transporting your belongings.

If you do rent a truck there are some things you should know all about moving trucks. Make sure your rented truck has enough space. Keep in mind that if you charged per mile, you want to be as efficient as possible by packing as much as possible. Pack fragile items first. Glasses, dishes, vases, china, crystal, silverware, and artwork are examples of items that break easily during transit.

If you use your own truck. A pickup truck can hold a lot of stuff and make loading and unloading easy. This can also be a good reason for friends to show up and bring their trucks to help.

Moving a Pet

If you’re moving pets, make sure they don’t become stressed during the move. Take them for walks beforehand so they know what’s coming.

Give your pet a bath. Bathe your pet at least two days before the move. This will relax them even though at first they might be extra energitic right after the bath.

Plan ahead and prepare your pet’s carrier. If possible, use a crate instead of a traditional kennel. Some crate carriers come with ramps and lids that allow your pet to climb in and out. Remove any food and water bowls. Clean the crate thoroughly.

Once the moving date comes, place your pet in the crate. Close the lid securely and keep the carrier in a well-ventilated area.

Put your pet in the car. If you’re driving a long distance, you might consider putting your pet in the back seat. Otherwise, keep your pet in the crate.

When you arrive at your destination, take your pet out of the vehicle. Open the door slowly. Allow your pet to stretch his legs.

Give your pet plenty of attention. Let him or her sniff around the house and familiarize himself or herself with their new surroundings.

Make sure your pets have their shots and that you have their current shot records. If you’re moving across town, you may need a boarding facility so your pet can receive regular attention. Having those records handy will make for a quick check in.

Cleaning

Set aside a day to clean your new place before you move in. This could be the date before your firm moving date.

Once everything is moved, it’s time too go back and clean the old place.

Afterwards, take a break and get some rest. You deserve it!

Tags all about moving, make moving easier, moving, moving plan, moving storage tips, storage

Moving Storage Storage Supplies

Where to Get Free Packing Peanuts and Low Cost Packing Supplies (2023)

Post author By Aaron
Post date September 8, 2022
No Comments on Where to Get Free Packing Peanuts and Low Cost Packing Supplies (2023)

You might have come here to find free packing peanuts. If so, you’re at the right place.

There’s several ways to get a hold of free packing peanuts (and low cost packing peanuts) so keep reading as we lay those out for you here.

First let’s talk about what packing peanuts are — and then let’s discover the best places to find them.

Packing peanuts (also known as packing materials, cushioning, foam peanuts, packing pellets, shipping popcorn and shipping peanuts) are used to fill the gaps inside packages so that items will not be damaged in shipment and moving.

They are shaped to fit together when they’re compressed and separate when they aren’t.

Composed of polystyrene — more familiarly known as Styrofoam — these packing materials are very durable and can take a long time to decompose when disposed of. As a result, new types of shipping materials have been developed which are biodegradable.

Polystyrene packing peanuts were first introduced in 1965 and have been widely used ever since. They’re about the size and appearance of an unshelled peanut.

Because they are durable, they can be used repeatedly. Even after repeated use, there’s little to no reduction in the ability of the peanuts to protect the product in the box.

They can also be recycled at shipping stores around the country. Shipping stores are a great place to check first when you need to get packing peanuts nearby.

Packing Peanuts are Versatile

Packing peanuts come in many shapes and sizes. Some are round; others are square, triangular, oval, rectangular, hexagonal or octagonal. Their dimensions vary too. For example, some are only one inch thick while others may reach up to three inches.

Packing peanuts are available in various densities. The density refers to how much air space there is between each piece.

A low-density packing peanut has less air space than a high-density packing peanut.

Types

There are two main types of packing peanuts:

Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) – EPS packing peanuts are the traditional and most commonly used packing peanuts. They are manufactured by heating and expanding a bead of styrene monomer until it becomes solid.

Then, the beads are fused together using heat and pressure to form a continuous sheet. The sheet is then cut into small pieces and formed into the desired shape.

EPS packing peanuts are typically sold in four different densities: Low Density (LD), Medium Density (MD), High Density (HD) and Extra High Density (XHD). LD packing peanuts weigh approximately 8 ounces per cubic foot, MD packing peanuts weigh approximately 12 ounces per cubic foot, HD packing peanuts weigh approximately 16 ounces per cubic foot and XHD packing peanuts weigh approximately 24 ounces per cubic foot.

Cellulose Acetate Butyrate (CAB) – CAB packing peanuts are made from cellulose acetate butyrate, a biodegradable plastic. They are usually white in color with a transparent window on one side.

Like EPS packing peanuts, CAB packing peanuts are available in different densities. However, unlike EPS packing peanuts, CBA packing peanuts do not contain any styrene monomers.

Instead, they are produced by mixing cellulose acetate fibers with butyric acid. The mixture is then melted and molded into sheets. These sheets are then cut into pieces and formed into the required shape. The first biodegradable packing material to look like “peanuts” goes by the tradename of Biofoam and is made from sorghum.

Manufacturing Process

The manufacturing process for packing peanuts begins with the production of a bead of styrene. Styrene is an organic compound that consists of carbon atoms bonded to hydrogen and oxygen atoms.

It’s a clear liquid at room temperature.

When heated, styrene polymerizes into a hard, brittle material called “polymer.” After being heated, the styrene is mixed with other chemicals and compressed under high pressure. This forms a sheet of polystyrene.

The sheet is then sliced into small pieces and shaped into the desired size and shape. This process causes them to expand to several times their original volume. Finally, the packing peanuts are coated with a thin layer of adhesive.

Once cooled, the packing peanuts are ready to use.

Uses

Packing peanuts are primarily used as filler inside packaging items such as boxes, crates, cartons, pallets, etc. They are often placed inside these containers to cushion the contents and prevent damage during shipment.

Packing peanuts are also used to protect products from moisture and dust. In addition, they’re sometimes used to create a decorative effect.

Where to Find Packing Peanuts Near Me

Most stores carry packing peanuts in bulk quantities. Some stores may even offer discounts if you buy large amounts of packing peanuts.

For where to buy packing peanuts nearby, many people check the popular shipping and moving stores first. This would be The UPS Store, FedEx, UHaul and USPS.

You may also find cheap packing peanuts at most major stores, including Office Depot, OfficeMax, Staples, Lowe’s, Wal-Mart and Grainger Industrial Supply.

If you don’t see packing peanuts in your local store, you might want to check out online retailers.

Many online retailers sell cheap packing peanuts in bulk and offer discounts. Amazon has a good variety of cheap packing peanuts.

The right places to ask for free packing peanuts

Where to Get Free Packing Peanuts

If you want free packing peanuts, there are many places where you might find them. Some stores will give away free packing peanuts when you purchase something else from them.

Other stores might give you free packing peanuts just so they don’t have to deal with them from their incoming container supplies.

It’s a good way to answer the question of where can I find packing peanuts near me — and to get them at low cost.

Check with Vitamin Stores, Optical Shops, Pier One, Home Goods, Furniture Stores, Smoke Shops

Our first choice for tracking down free packing peanuts, these shops receive their delicate shipments packed in cartons with packing peanuts used for cushioning.

Once the packages are opened, these stores have to figure out a way to discard the packing materials. You can help them!

Put together a list of the above types of stores… such as vitamin stores, optical shops and furniture stores near you. Then go to the closest stores in your area and visit with them.

Check with the store manager (or assistant manager). You might get lucky and pick up the supplies you need right away. You’ll probably have to check back often, so you can grab those shipping materials right after the moment their shipments are delivered.

You can call them to ask to save it for you — or check their dumpsters. You may find packing materials, bubble wrap and boxes that they’re throwing away.

Tell them that you’re looking for shipping peanuts near me. You’d be amazed at the things people throw out.

Check Craigslist.org and Facebook Marketplace

Our second choice for free packing peanuts.

People often try to get rid of packing materials for free on Craigslist and Facebook marketplace. It’s a way for people to recycle the packing materials and protect the environment.

Check Freecycle.org

Freecycle is an international website that allows people to post items for free. It’s similar to Craigslist.org but instead of posting items for sale, users post items for free and is our third choice for free packing peanuts.

It’s an interesting concept. On Freecycle.org, people give away the items they no longer need, and then get the items they do need.

The basic rule is: whatever you give away must be completely free, and you can not take anything from people without giving something back.

It’s not uncommon for someone to have extra packing peanuts lying around. It’s a great opportunity.

Ask Your Neighbors

Our fourth choice for free packing peanuts: your neighbors may have extra packing peanuts. Especially anyone that has recently moved. Ask them if you can use them.

Free Packing Peanuts From Shipping Companies

This one can be hit or miss and that’s why it’s our fifth choice. Some companies offer free (or cheap) packing peanuts as part of a promotion.

For example, UPS may run an in store promo offering free shipping peanuts with your next package delivery. You just have to catch it at the right time. FedEx might give out free packing peanuts with each package it delivers.

Even if you track down packing materials for free, you still need to know that it will take some of your own valuable time to do this.

It might be worth it to spend your time to get packing materials free. It can sometimes be difficult to determine the value of your time, especially when you’re days away from a move.

One way to look at it is this… is it worth trimming down your moving costs if you’re on a tight budget and you’ve already spent a lot on the move? For many people, the answer is Yes.

Let’s say you want to move into a 2-bedroom home. You could spend anywhere between $150-$300 for new packing supplies.

If you save a good chunk of that just by doing some simple asking around, it could well be worth your time.

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Getting Packing Peanuts in Bulk

If you have a need for a large amount of packing peanuts, there’s a handful of options available. You can find packing peanuts in bulk at a variety of locations.

Here’s some things you can do:

Office supply stores: Check office supply stores for packing peanuts in bulk. You might even get a discount if you purchase a large quantity.
Shipping and packaging supply stores: Stores that specialize in shipping and packaging supplies are likely to have packing peanuts available in bulk.
Online retailers: There are a variety of online retailers that sell packing peanuts in bulk. As you’d expect, Amazon would be among the most popular of choices. You can also try Uline and Staples websites.
Recycling centers: Some recycling centers collect packing peanuts to reuse considering the environmental impact otherwise. The recycling center may offer bulk packing peanuts to individuals for free or at a low cost. This is our sixth choice for tracking down free packing peanuts.
Local businesses: Some local businesses, such as electronics stores and vitamin stores, may have excess packing peanuts that they’re willing to give away or sell in bulk.

When getting packing peanuts in bulk, be sure to compare prices and consider the environmental impact. Some companies offer eco-friendly packing peanuts made of biodegradable material.

With this in mind, you might even want to make your own packing materials.

How to Make Your Own Packing Materials

You don’t need any special equipment to make your own packing materials. All you need is a pair of scissors and a few sheets of newspaper.

First, cut up a piece of newspaper into strips. Next, fold the paper in half lengthwise. Cut along one side of the folded paper to form two triangles. Fold the triangle in half so that it resembles a rectangle.

Now, unfold the paper and open it back up again.

Repeat this step until you’ve created a stack of rectangles. Place the stack of rectangles inside another piece of newspaper. Roll the entire thing tightly to create a ball.

Continue rolling the balls until you reach the desired size.

How to Test for Biodegradable Packing Materials

If you’re not sure whether something can be recycled, just take a quick look at it. If that is not effective, there is a foolproof method for determining if a material is eco-friendly.

To test whether plastic packaging materials are biodegradable, put them under running warm water. Organic compounds break down into biodegradable substances when they come into contact with moisture.

It only takes a few minutes to see the material completely dissolve.

12 Ways to Reuse Packing Peanuts

Recycling is important because it helps keep our environment clean. There are many ways to recycle packing peanuts. Here are 12 great ideas:

1. Use packing peanuts to line trash cans.

2. Use packing peanuts to cover furniture legs so that people and kids don’t bump into them.

3. Use packing peanuts to protect books from dust during storage.

4. Use packing peanuts to cushion items during storage.

5. Use packing peanuts to fill gaps between shelves.

6. Use packing peanuts to prevent books from falling off bookcases. They provide shock-absorbing protection for your belongings, keeping them safe from falls and impacts.

7. Use packing peanuts to hold together boxes. Fill empty spaces in the boxes to prevent shifting.

8. Use packing peanuts to secure loose papers.

9. Use packing peanuts to separate layers of newspapers.

10. Use packing peanuts to wrap gifts. Fill a box with the packing peanuts around the gift to prevent vibrations to the gift.

11. Use packing peanuts to stuff pillows.

12. Use packing peanuts to pack small items like jewelry or coins.

12. Use packing peanuts inside gift bags to protect gifts.

Recycling

Because newer packing peanuts are made from recycled materials, they can be considered environmentally friendly. Recycled packing peanuts are generally accepted by recycling programs because they have similar properties to virgin packing peanuts.

PRO TIP

For used packing peanuts, it’s important not to just throw them away with the regular garbage. There might be restrictions in your community and throwing away packing peanuts could result in a fine. Instead try to use them in outgoing packages you might have. This comes in handy around the holdays.

Packing Materials Facts

Packing peanuts come in different sizes and shapes. They’re usually sold by weight rather than by number.

Packing peanuts are made from recycled materials. In fact, they contain less plastic than regular trash bags.

You can put packing peanuts in a cooler with cold cans instead of using ice. The packing peanuts will insulate the cooler and keep the cans cold.

Packing peanuts aren’t just for packaging products. They also help keep furniture dry during transit.

Packing peanuts can be used at the bottom of a planter to help draining for potted plants.

You can refill flat bean bag chairs with packing peanuts to give the chair a new lift.

If you’re looking for an easy way to recycle packing materials, consider re-using packing peanuts instead of throwing them away.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Old are Packing Peanuts?

Packing peanuts (also known as foam peanuts, styrofoam peanuts) were invented in 1965 by Dow Chemical Company. That would mean that packing peanuts are 58 years old in 2023.

Do Packing Peanuts Help?

Packing peanuts can protect fragile items during shipping or transportation and are very helpful that way. When used correctly, they provide cushioning and prevent items from shifting (or breaking) during transit.

Packing peanuts are often made from expanded polystyrene (EPS), which is lightweight and durable and can absorb shock and vibration.

They’re designed to be placed in the empty spaces around items to fill gaps and prevent movement inside a box.

Can You Eat Biodegradable Packing Peanuts?

No. Even though they are called “edible” and nontoxic packing peanuts, they are not produced in a food processing facility.

Are these packing peanuts edible… if people or pets do eat some, it should be safe.

There’s no nutritional value and you just don’t want that to become a habit. The best thing to do with packing peanuts is to throw them out.

However, some people use biodegradable ones as mulch around plants.

Why Do They Call Them Packing Peanuts?

They call them packing peanuts because of the similarity of the shape to a peanut. They interlock nicely and a’re designed to fit inside boxes and other containers.

Are Packing Peanuts Still Used?

Yes. Packaging companies still use packing peanuts today. They’re often used to package small items such as jewelry, toys, and electronics.

What Are the Best Types of Packing Peanuts?

There’s no single type of packing peanut. There are many types available. For example, there are round packing peanuts, square packing peanuts, and even triangular packing peanuts.

Some packing peanuts are made from natural fibers such as jute and cotton. Others are made from synthetic fibers like polypropylene.

Are Packing Peanuts Good for Fragile Items?

Packing peanuts can be good for protecting fragile items during shipping when used correctly. When packed around a fragile item, the packing peanuts provide cushioning and prevent the item from shifting (or getting damaged) during transit.

It’s important to use the right amount of packing peanuts and to ensure that the protected item is fully covered and surrounded by the peanuts.

If there are gaps between the peanuts and the item, it can still move around and therefore get damaged during shipment.

There are other packaging materials available that may be just as effective at protecting fragile items — such as bubble wrap and air pillows.

Choosing the right packaging material is important — whether it be packing peanuts, bubble wrap or air pillows — and this can be dependent on the item’s fragility, weight and shape.

How Do I Make My Own Free Packing Peanuts?

You don’t need any special tools to make your own packing peanut. All you need is scissors and a couple of pieces of newspaper.

First, tear up a sheet of newspaper into strips.

Then, fold the paper in thirds lengthwise.

Open the paper up again.

Repeat this process until you’ve created a pile of rectangles. Finally, roll the rectangles together to create a ball .

How Much Does It Cost To Use Packing Peanuts? How Long Will They Last?

You’ll pay about $1 per pound for packing peanuts. That means you could buy enough packing peanuts to wrap all of your items for about $10. Once you open the package, however, you won’t need to buy more. Packaging peanuts last for years.

What Locales Are Styrofoam Packing Materials Banned?

The traditional packing materials were made of styrofoam. Styrofoam is considered to be a major contributor to environmental litter and could harm wildlife.

Styrofoam is banned in some towns and counties and in these five states: Maine, Maryland, New Jersey, New York and Vermont.

Are Packing Materials Bad for the Environment?

It depends on what kind of packing material you choose. Polystyrene foam can take hundreds of years to decompose. Paperboard takes only months.

But if you have to dispose of packing peanuts, you might want to think twice before tossing them in the trash. Recycling packing peanuts is one option. Another option is to compost them.

Will UPS Accept Packing Peanuts to Recycle?

Packing peanuts aren’t accepted by most recycling programs. You may be able to recycle them at home through your local curbside collection program. Check with your local government to see if they accept packing peanuts.

How Can I Get Rid of Packaging Materials?

If you don’t want to throw away these items, you can take them to a recycling facility where they’ll be recycled into new products. You can find collection bins at several local stores such as Lowe’s, Target, Kohl’s and Walmart.

What Packaging is the Most Friendly for the Environment?

Packaging made from corrugated cardboard and other types of recycled materials are regarded as being among the most eco-friendly and sustainable.

Are Packing Peanuts edible?

No. Packing peanuts consist of small pieces of polystyrene foam. Polystyrene is not intended for consumption and are not considered safe to eat.

Eating packing peanuts is usually harmful to health and might even cause choking. The main thing is to keep packing peanuts away from children and pets.

Recycling packing peanuts is a good way to dispose of them.

Are Packing Peanuts recyclable?

Packing peanuts are made of polystyrene plastic. It’s not easy to recycle it, and most recycling facilities can not accept it. However, some of the companies that manufacture packing peanuts provide a recycling program for their product.

These programs may involve collecting the packing peanuts and either melting them down and using the material to create new products — or grinding them up and using them for filler in other things.

If you have packing peanuts that you want to recycle, you can try contacting the manufacturer or a local packaging supply store to see if they have a recycling program in place.

If you are unable to recycle your packing peanuts, you can reuse them in your other packages that you ship. It’s important to properly dispose of packing peanuts to avoid littering — and to protect the environment.

How Can I tell if Packing Peanuts are Biodegradable?

For how to tell if packing peanuts are biodegradable, there are a few ways to check. These four tips should help to know:

Look for a label: Some manufacturers will label their packing peanuts as biodegradable or compostable. Check the packaging or contact the manufacturer to see if they provide information on the material’s biodegradability.
Check the material: Traditional packing peanuts are made from expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam, which is not biodegradable. Which of course means that it takes much longer to break down.Biodegradable packing peanuts are typically made from materials such as cornstarch or other plant-based materials. Look for packing peanuts that are labeled as being made from biodegradable materials.
Perform a water test: Put a packing peanut in a cup of water and stir it around. Biodegradable packing peanuts will begin to dissolve in water and may completely dissolve within a few minutes to a few hours — depending on what it’s made of. If the packing peanut does not dissolve or stays intact for a while, then it’s likely not biodegradable.
Look for certifications: Some biodegradable packing peanuts may be certified by organizations such as the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) or the Composting Council to meet specific standards for biodegradability and compostability. Look for these certifications to know that the packing material is truly biodegradable.

Even if packing peanuts are biodegradable, it’s important to get rid of them properly either by composting or recycling them as a way to minimize environmental impact.

Where can I buy packing peanuts?

When looking for packing peanuts nearby, many people check the popular shipping and moving stores first. This includes The UPS Store, FedEx, UHaul and USPS. It’s a good way to find the shipping peanuts near me.

You may also find cheap packing peanuts at most major stores, including Office Depot, OfficeMax, Staples, Lowe’s, Wal-Mart and Grainger Industrial Supply.

If you don’t see places nearby where to get packing peanuts, you might want to check out online retailers. Amazon has a good variety of cheap packing peanuts.

Where is the cheapest place to buy packing peanuts?

Amazon has a good variety of cheap packing peanuts. Lowe’s and Wal-Mart are also low cost places to go.

Where can I get packing peanuts for free?

In talking about where to get free packing peanuts near me, a good idea is to check Freecycle and Craigslist.org. Ask neighbors. Check the six sources above.

Can You Eat Packing Peanuts?

When it comes to the question about are packing peanuts edible, we don’t recommend it — even with the biodegradable ones.

Eating packing peanuts can be harmful to your health — and may even cause choking or other injuries. It’s important to keep packing peanuts away from little children and pets, and to get rid of them in the right way.

Where Can I Find Cheap Packing Peanuts?

Check Freecycle and Craigslist.org first for cheap packing peanuts near me. You might even find free packing peanuts. Ask neighbors. Check the information above for the different stores that carry the cheapest packing peanuts.

Where Can I Find Packing Peanuts Near Me?

It’s very often that we get the question about finding “packing peanuts near me.” You can check the websites Freecycle and Craigslist.org for packing peanuts near me.

Often CraigsList will show people located near you. Then you can also ask neighbors. Check the information above for helpful tips.

You could make your own packing to fill gaps by using newspaper cut into strips. Or you could take a few styrofoam cups and break each into smaller pieces to use as a cushioning in your packing.

How much do packing peanuts weigh?

For the weight of packing peanuts, it can vary depending on the size and amount of peanuts in the package.

Generally, a standard 14-cubic-foot bag of packing peanuts weighs around one to two pounds.

The weight can vary based on the type of packing peanuts and how densely they’re packed. And some eco-friendly packing peanuts made from biodegradable materials may be lighter in weight than traditional polystyrene packing peanuts.

If you need to ship or transport something using packing peanuts, it’s a good idea to weigh the package first to ensure it is within the weight restrictions of the shipping method you’re using.

How much do packing peanuts cost?

The cost of packing peanuts varies depending on the type of material used, the quantity purchased and the supplier.

Generally the traditional polystyrene packing peanuts can cost around $15 to $25 for a 14-cubic-foot bag, while biodegradable packing peanuts made from cornstarch or other plant-based materials can cost anywhere from $20 to $50 for a similar-sized bag.

The cost per cubic foot of packing peanuts may also vary depending on the amount purchased. For example, a smaller 3-cubic-foot bag of traditional polystyrene packing peanuts may cost around $5 to $10, while a larger 50-cubic-foot bag may cost closer to $50 to $75.

Some suppliers may offer discounts for bulk orders or for customers who purchase packing peanuts along with other shipping or packaging supplies.

It’s a good idea to compare prices from multiple suppliers to find the best deal.

How do you get static out of packing peanuts?

When packing peanuts rub against each other, they can create static electricity from the friction. Kind of like when you rub your feet back and forth on carpet.

Normally, this wouldn’t be a big deal, but what if you’re shipping an electronic circuit board or something sensitive to static shock.

If you’re packing or shipping something that could be sensitive to static shock, you could use newspaper to protect the package instead of packing peanuts.

Some people also insist that blowing a hair dryer at a bag of packing peanuts can help minimize the static. We don’t know if that works.

Does UPS Sell Packing Peanuts?

The answer is: it depends. UPS stores typically offer shipping supplies, often at no cost to the person making the shipment. Depending on the location, they may sell packing peanuts.

Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on the location of the UPS Store.

What are packing peanuts made of?

Packing peanuts are made of expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam, which is a type of plastic. This foam is made by heating and expanding polystyrene beads, which are then molded into various shapes, including the familiar peanut shape that we all know.

Expanded polystyrene foam is lightweight, inexpensive, and provides excellent cushioning and shock absorption for fragile items being shipped. However, it’s not biodegradable and can take hundreds of years to break down in landfills, which is why there are environmental concerns.

Some companies have started to use biodegradable starch-based packing peanuts (or paper-based cushioning material), to reduce environmental impact. These eco friendly packing peanuts break down very quickly and are safe for the environment.

To really know what are biodegradable packing peanuts made from, it’s just simple starch or paper.

When people ask are packing peanuts edible, the biodegradable ones made from starch might be considered edible — but we don’t recommend eating them.

Can I make my own bean bag chair from packing peanuts?

It’s possible to make a bean bag chair from packing peanuts, although it may not be the most ideal due to lack of durability and comfort.

If you’d like to make one, here’s a simple process for making a bean bag chair from scratch using packing peanuts:

Obtain a large amount of packing peanuts of course. You can find packing peanuts bulk from packaging supply stores or recycle used packing peanuts. If it were my chair, I’d go with new packing peanuts.
Sew a large, durable bag out of a sturdy fabric — such as canvas or upholstery fabric. You can make this bag any size you want (and even experiment), but a standard size for a bean bag chair is going to be around three to four feet in diameter.
Fill your bag with packing peanuts until it reaches a desired level of firmness. You may need to experiment with different amounts of packing peanuts to find the right spot of support and comfort.
Sew the bag closed securely. You may want to double-stitch or reinforce the seams to prevent the packing peanuts from ripping out.

Keep in mind that using packing peanuts to fill a bean bag chair may not provide the same level of comfort and durability as other filling materials, such as foam pellets or shredded foam. Foam pellets might not cost much either.

Packing peanuts may shift around or squish over time, causing a less comfortable seat.

Aside from that, the packing peanut bean bag chair might be fun.

Tags biodegradable packing peanuts, cushioning, foam peanuts, low cost packing peanuts, packing material, packing peanuts, packing pellets, shipping peanuts, shipping popcorn, styrofoam peanuts

Moving Blankets Storage Supplies

9 Ways to Find Free Moving Blankets, Low-Priced Furniture Pads and Rental Moving Blankets (2023)

Post author By Aaron
Post date September 5, 2022
No Comments on 9 Ways to Find Free Moving Blankets, Low-Priced Furniture Pads and Rental Moving Blankets (2023)

When it comes to moving a home and self storage, moving blankets are a necessity.

A moving blanket is similar to a traditional blanket, but should be made from thicker material and with stronger stitching.

Moving blankets are the key to a fast and safe way to move. We’ve figured out some of the cheapest and safest methods for using them.

Keep reading to find out.

Moving blankets are sometimes — accurately or inaccurately — referred to as “storage blankets,” “furniture blankets,” “furniture pads,” “moving pads” or “furniture moving pads.”

They all have the same goal: protecting your belongings from getting scratched.

In some cases, people find out during their move that these blankets are necessary for a good move — and as important as moving boxes and strong tape. A moving blanket protects your belongings from scratches, dents, and nicks.

You don’t have to worry about damaging delicate items during the move. Moving blankets make packing and unpacking easy. No more lifting boxes! Simply roll the blanket around your items and tie it securely.

This articles goes into depth about why moving blankets are important, where to find good deals (sometimes for free) — along with things you might not have even known about moving blankets.

Types of Moving Blankets

A moving blanket is a large rectangular piece of fabric or plastic that can be wrapped around furniture and other items in order to protect them from scratches and dents while being moved. They’re also used to cushion fragile objects like glassware and china.

Sometimes they can help prevent larger scratches during the course of a move.

Moving blankets are made of various materials including polyester, nylon, microfiber, and cotton. Each type offers its own benefits.

The most common type of moving blanket is made of heavy-duty nylon or polyester material. These materials are durable enough to withstand repeated use, but they don’t absorb moisture well. Moisture can cause mold growth on the surface of the blanket.

Polyester moving blankets are durable and easy to clean. These blankets are made from 100% polyester yarns. They resist stains well. Polyester moving blankets also tend to be more affordable than other types of moving blankets. These moving blankets can be machine washed but not tumble-dried.

Nylon moving blankets are strong, sturdy and resistant to tearing. They’re also stain-resistant and last a long time. However, they don’t hold their shape as well as other types of moving blankets. They are also more expensive than cotton moving blankets because they cost more to make.

Microfiber moving blankets are soft and absorbent. They’re great for delicate items such as china, crystal, silverware, and jewelry.

Cotton moving blankets. These are often used by movers who want to keep costs low. Cotton moving blankets are breathable and comfortable. They are typically much softer than polyester moving blankets. They’re also lightweight and easy to care for.

Cotton moving blankets can be machine-washed and tumble-dried. However, cotton moving blankets don’t last as long as polyester moving blankets.

When choosing the type of moving blanket you want, consider which type of surface you want to protect.

A soft, smooth surface such as carpeting or wood floors is ideal for a cotton moving blanket. A rough surface such as concrete or tile needs a polyester moving blanket.

PRO TIP

A single $15 moving blanket could save you hundreds — maybe even thousands — of dollars in damage. Just imagine your flat-screen TV getting hit by the side of the dining room table. A blanket could brace that impact.

How to Use Moving Blankets

There’s no right or wrong way to wrap your belongings with a moving blanket. The best thing to do is experiment until you figure out what works best for you.

Here are some tips to help you decide how to use a moving blanket:

1. Wrap your item first. This helps ensure that it doesn’t fall off the blanket when you start wrapping.

2. Start at one end of the item and work toward the opposite end. You’ll need to wrap each side separately.

3. Make sure the item is completely covered before wrapping any additional sides. If an area isn’t fully protected, it may become damaged later.

4. When you reach the end of the item, fold over the excess material so it covers the entire item.

5. Secure the ends of the blanket with tape or rope or bungee. Tape is usually better because it’s easier to remove if needed.

6. Once you’re done wrapping, secure the blanket with tape or ropes.

7. Place the blanket inside a box or bag. It should fit snugly without leaving gaps.

8. Label the outside of the box or bag with the contents’ name and give the box (or bag) a number. This number will come in handy if you plan to place the box or bag into a storage unit.

9. Store the box or bag in a safe place until you’re ready to unpack it.

10. Remove the blanket once you’ve unpacked everything.

11. Wash the blanket after every use .

12. Don’t throw away old blankets. Instead… donate them to Goodwill or another charity. Or you could give them to the next person you know who has a move coming up.

13. Keep a few extra blankets handy just in case something happens along the way.

14. Remember to wash your hands after handling a moving blanket.

Here’s a creative use for a moving blanket:

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Using Two Moving Blankets to Overlap Large Items

Secure the top of the object you’re planning on protecting. If the cargo you’re anticipating moving is large enough, it’s likely that two moving blankets will be sufficient for your needs.

You can do this easily by putting one moving blanket on the object and then using elastic bands or bungees to secure the first cover.

If possible, turn the item upside down so that the other side is facing up. Repeat the above steps in the same sequence. This willsecure your item from both sides with the moving blanket covers.

The outer fabric of the blanket can protect the edges of the cargo — and help prevent scratching with the overlapping coverage.

Moving blankets are made to transport and protect whatever objects they cover large or small.

How Large is a Moving Blanket?

The size of a moving blanket depends on the weight of the items being moved. Most moving blankets measure about 36″ x 60″. Some people prefer smaller sizes while others like bigger ones.

If you need something larger, there are premium quality 80” x 72” heavy duty blankets available. They are durable and protect against scratching, nicks, dirt, and moisture. They’re perfect for protecting expensive belongings when you move them.

In addition, there are different thicknesses available. For example, a thicker moving blanket might be able to withstand heavier items.

Moving Blankets Can Help With…

Dust and Moisture

Moving blankets are a great way to keep dust and dirt from getting into your furniture, a desk, your piano, electronics and more.

They also offer protection from things that are in your other boxes. You may not be concerned about a barbeque getting scratched up, but that grill might rub up and damage what’s packed next to it.

Even dust mites. Dust mites thrive in warm, moist environments. Moisture can cause dust mites to multiply rapidly. Dust mites also love dark places where they can hide from light.

Moving blankets keep your home clean and dry. Surprisingly, they prevent dust mites from settling on furniture, carpeting, walls, and other surfaces. As a result, they might help reduce the risk of allergies and asthma attacks by preventing this dust mite buildup.

A moving blanket also helps protect your belongings from damage caused by water. Water can ruin clothing, electronics, and other valuable possessions.

It keeps your things clean and dry. You won’t have to worry about mold growing on your belongings. Mold grows best in damp conditions.

Preventing Transportation Damage

Moving blankets provide protection against transportation damage. If you pack fragile items such as glassware, china, crystal, artwork, etc., then you’ll want to wrap them in bubble wrap or some type of protective material.

But what do you do with all those other items?

You can put them in a plastic trash bag or cardboard box. However, these materials don’t offer much protection against sharp objects or rough handling.

You should consider using a moving blanket instead. It’s made of thick, sturdy fabric that will protect your belongings from damage during transport.

Protection Against Scratches

Scratching is one of the most common problems associated with moving. The problem starts before you even start packing.

When you unpack, you’ll find that many of your belongings are scratched up. This is because they were exposed to dust and dirt while stored in their previous location.

Moving blankets will protect your belongings from scratches.

Protection of Furniture

Furniture is another area where moving blankets come in handy. They protect your furniture from dents and scrapes. They also protect your furniture from stains and odors.

When you pack your furniture, make sure you use a mattress pad. These pads are designed to absorb moisture and prevent it from seeping through the padding and damaging the mattress itself.

If you’re going to move heavy furniture, you’ll need to take extra precautions. Use two people when lifting and carrying. And if possible, hire movers who specialize in moving heavy furniture.

Safety

The last thing you want to happen is for something to fall off the truck and injure someone. That’s why you should always wear safety glasses and ear plugs while loading and unloading your belongings.

And remember to check your belongings every day after unpacking. Make sure nothing was damaged during transit.

How To Choose A Good Moving Blanket

There are several different types of moving blankets available. Some are more durable than others. Others are better at keeping out dust mites. Still others are easier to fold and store.

Here are some factors to consider when choosing a good moving blanket:

Durability

How long will this moving blanket last? Will it be able to withstand repeated washings?

Ease Of Storage

Is there enough room inside the storage container for this moving blanket? Can you easily fold it into a compact package?

Size

What size moving blanket will work best for you? Do you need a large one or a small one?

Price

How much does this moving blanket cost? Ask yourself… are there any discounts available… A pack of 12 moving blankets could easily cost over $200 so you want to make sure to get good quality blankets. If your budget is tight, there’s some more tips below to save some money.

The Difference between a Moving Blanket and a Moving Pad

A moving blanket and a moving pad (or furniture pad) are both protective coverings used during a moving to protect furniture (and other items) from scratches, dings and other damage.

Moving blankets are usually thicker and offer more protection than moving pads — but moving pads are more portable and easier to handle.

The main difference between the two is the material they are made of and the level of protection provided.

A moving blanket is typically made of thick, durable material such as cotton or polyester and can provide a high level of protection for furniture and other items being moved. They’re often used to wrap larger items like sofas, armoires, mirrors and dining tables.

A moving pad is a thinner, light-weight option made of materials such as quilted cotton or foam. They’re often used to cover the smaller items like lamps, chairs and dressers.

They’re not as protective as a moving blanket but can be more portable and easy to handle.

Finding Moving Blankets

You can find these blankets online or at home improvement stores. However, they aren’t cheap. Expect to pay between $20-$40 per moving blanket depending on the brand and size.

This means that you could spend $200 (and up) just on moving blankets to move a home.

Some companies offer discounts if you buy multiple blankets at once. Check around and see what deals you can get.

When shopping for a moving blanket, make sure it fits all of the items you want to protect. Also, look for a warranty. Many brands provide warranties on their products.

Moving blankets are an excellent way to protect your belongings during a move. You can choose between different styles and sizes to fit your needs.

Here are some of the top moving blankets on the market today:

Places that Sell (or Rent) Moving Blankets and Furniture Pads

1. UHaul

UHaul moving blankets are great for protecting delicate items like fine art, jewelry, and antiques. It comes in three sizes and is easy to fold and store. It has a waterproof backing so you don’t have to worry about water getting inside.

It’s a popular choice among professional movers. It’s made of high quality materials and is very durable. The fabric is stain resistant and won’t fade over time.

They have another moving blanket that is perfect for protecting clothing and linens. It’s made with soft microfiber material and folds flat for easy storage. It’s also machine washable and drys quickly.

To save money, UHaul might rent you the moving blankets and you just return them when you’re done.

UHaul’s competitors, Budget Trucks and Penske might also rent moving blankets.

2. Lodi Metals

Lodi Metals is a top supplier of where to buy Moving Blankets in the country. Many people have not heard of them. If you’re looking for USA made moving blankets, cheap cargo blankets, or to supply a moving fleet with moving blankets — they can help you. They offer moving blankets for all budgets and all needs. If you want one moving blanket or a pack of 4 or twelve blankets — they can help.Their phone number is 800-807-5634

3. Home Depot

Home Depot has quality moving blankets. You can buy online or pick up in the store. They also offer free shipping on some of the moving blankets.

4. Lowe’s

Lowe’s offers many types of moving blankets. Their moving blankets come in several sizes and colors. They also have a variety of accessories such as plastic bags, bubble wrap, and packing tape.

5. Target

Target sells affordable moving blankets. They have a wide selection of colors and sizes. If the discount code is still active when you read this, you can use “TARGET10” to receive 10% off your order.

6. Walmart

Walmart has twelve packs of the 54 inch by 72 inch pads at a competitive price. Walmart has a wide selection of moving blankets. You can purchase them online or in the store. Some of the moving blankets are made from recycled plastic bottles.

7. Costco

Costco sells moving blankets in bulk. They have everything from small travel sized blankets to big ones that can cover the back of a pickup truck. They also have a good selection of other supplies like boxes and bubble wrap.

8. Bed Bath & Beyond

Bed Bath & Beyond carries a variety of products to help with a move including the softer blankets used to move delicate and smaller belongings.

9. Amazon

Amazon has a huge selection of moving blankets. There are many options including color, style, and size.They have a variety for every budget and need.

10. Full Service Movers

Full-Service movers in your area often provide moving blankets.

9 Ways to Find Free and Low-Priced Storage Blankets plus One Bonus Way

Where to Find Free and Low-Priced Moving Blankets

There are many ways to get free moving blankets. It can take a little time to track them down, but it’s worth saving $200 or more.

Here’s some places to check:

1. Ask friends and family members if they have any leftover blankets from previous moves.

2. Look at local thrift shops. Often you can find these on the shelves at the back wall for a really good price.

3. Contact local charities.

4. Post flyers in your neighborhood.

5. Search Craigslist. Someone might just be looking to give away moving blankets as a way to do a good turn for a stranger.

6. Visit garage sales. Turns out that just about everyone has a moving blanket or two inside their garage. It’s almost funny that way. People overlook them but if you ask at a garage sale if they having any moving blankets for sale, many people will say, “hold on” and find you a blanket they’ll sell you for cheap.

7. Offer to help someone else move. This could be someone new moving into your neighborhood. Afterwards… ask them their plans for the moving blankets and moving boxes.

8. Check different moving companies to see if they offer free moving blankets.

9. Check Facebook Marketplace.

10. Be creative!

I know what you might be thinking… it’s not really free if you have to spend time chasing down blankets.

Your time is very valuable and when moving you don’t have a lot of extra time available.

However, considering that each blanket could be worth $20 to $40 dollars, if you get 5 free blankets from just one of these ideas and it took you an hour — that could be a $200 savings for the hour spent.

Where to Find Moving Blankets to Rent

A moving blanket is just as important to a major move as are trucks and packing supplies — but most people don’t use them for long enough to justify shelling out over $200 dollars.

Add to the fact that many people give their blankets away after completing a move because the blankets still look brand new and there’s nothing else to do with them.

If you want to save money while making sure your belongings stay safe, consider renting moving blankets.

Renting moving blankets instead of buying them may be a suitable option if you’re working on a tight budget.

Think about this… If you buy your own moving blankets, you may have to pay for shipping, storage, and disposal fees once the blankets eventually get worn out.

Renting makes more sense financially because you won’t incur nearly as many of these costs.

The cost of renting moving blankets will vary depending on how much time you need the blankets for.

As an example, if you plan on using your moving blankets for only a few days, you’ll probably end up paying less per day than someone who needs his or her moving blankets for weeks.

Moving blankets are available at many local moving companies. Some may even include moving blankets for free with a truck rental – if you ask them.

You can also look online for moving blankets that are rented by the hour. Some websites offer discounts for renting multiple hours of service in advance.

Here’s a list of reliable places where you can rent moving blankets and furniture pads:

UHaul

Some UHaul locations offer moving blanket rentals. Some also offer a discount on blankets if you rent a truck from them. You might want to look at their lower priced furniture pads also.

Home Depot

Many Home Depot locations offer a variety of rentals to help with your move. Check your local Home Depot for recommendations on what you can rent and if they have blankets available for rent.

Each store has different availability and often the larger Home Depots have expanded services.

Penske Truck Rental

Besides having moving trucks available, you can add furniture pads rentals to your reservation and then pick them up when you get your truck. The furniture pad rentals are only available to those who rent a truck.

Budget Moving Trucks

Similar to Penske above, you can add furniture pads rentals to your Budget Truck reservation and then pick them up when you get your truck. The furniture pad rentals are only available to those who rent a truck and come in a pack of twelve for the rental.

If you do decide to rent moving blankets, make sure you know what kind of care you should use to clean them. Fortunately, many moving blankets come with instructions about cleaning and storing properly.

It’s a good idea to read those instructions before using your moving blankets.

You’ll want to return the blankets in the same general condition as when you first rented — that way there’s no extra damage charges assessed.

How to Wrap a Couch with a Moving Blanket

You can protect a couch from damage by using furniture pads or a stretch wrap, depending on the couch’s fabric type. Start by removing any blankets and throw pillows and packing those separately in a bag or small box. Then remove the legs and detach any arms — if necessary.

The Amount of Blankets Needed for Moving a House

A good rule of thumb is to start with around 11 to 12 blankets per bedroom. If that seems like a lot, you could look at having one blanket for every 5 square feet of space inside your moving truck.

Alternatives to what can I use instead of moving blankets?

If you’re looking for alternatives to moving blankets for protecting your furniture and other items during a move, there are several options worth considering.

Bubble wrap or packing paper are great options for wrapping delicate items like glassware or electronics.

If you don’t have access to those, you can use old towels, sheets, or blankets that you no longer need. These items can provide some cushioning and protection during transport.

In my last move, in addition to the moving blankets I had, we used some old towels and sheets along with worn blankets as it turned out we had more stuff to move than I initially planned on. Everything turned out well.

You can also purchase specialized padding materials such as foam sheets, packing peanuts or corrugated cardboard to use as extra protection.

It’s important to ensure that everything is secured properly to prevent any damage during the move.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do You Clean Moving Blankets?

You could wash your thinner reusable blankets by hand if you wanted to. However, most people will opt to throw them in the washing machine on cold cycle — if the blankets are thin and the label says that they are machine washable.

You need to avoid the dryer and go with line dry instead.

If the blankets are not machine washable, you’ll need to have a professional clean them.

What Should I do with my Old Blankets After Moving?

If you’re going to donate them to charity, make sure to check out what type of organization accepts blankets. Many organizations only accept blankets that were purchased through them.

Or… you could give them to someone else that is getting ready to move. That would start the cycle of giving with someone new.

Can I Reuse My Blankets?

Yes, but you’ll want to wash them first.

Is There Anything Special About Moving Blankets?

Yes, they come in handy during a move and are more durable than regular blankets.

Do I Have to Buy Moving Blankets?

No, it’s up to you. Some people can use whatever blankets they already own. Although home blankets might not be as sturdy.

Can I Sleep Using a Moving Blanket for Warmth?

A moving blanket can also provide an extra layer of warmth on a cold night. Whether you are trying to keep warm during an outside event, looking for warmth huddled up on the sofa during a binge watch, or as a blanket on the bed to help keep heat in and the cold out, a moving blanket can do the trick.

Where can I get cheap moving blankets?

There are several places to get cheap moving blankets, including:

Online retailers: Online retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, and U-Haul offer a variety of moving blankets at competitive prices. Check the customer reviews and ratings to find the best deals on quality moving blankets.
Local moving companies: Some local moving companies may sell or rent out their used moving blankets at a discounted price. Call moving companies in your area to see if they offer this option.
Home improvement stores: The standard home improvement stores like Home Depot, Lowe’s, Ace-True Value, Harbor Freight and Menards offer moving blankets and other moving supplies at affordable prices.You might also find discounts or promotions on moving blankets by signing up for the store’s email list or loyalty program.
Rental companies: Rental companies such as Rent-A-Center or Rent-A-Crate may offer moving blankets for rent at a lower cost than purchasing them outright.
Secondhand stores: Check local secondhand stores or thrift shops (such as Goodwill and Deseret Industries) for used moving blankets at discounted prices. These blankets may not be as high-quality as brand new ones, they probably didn’t get used much and can be a good option for a tight budget.

Since the cost of moving blankets can add up quickly, remember to compare prices and quality before making a decision. This will ensure you get the best deal on moving blankets for protecting your belongings during a move.

Where can I rent moving blankets?

You can rent moving blankets from several places, including:

U-Haul: U-Haul offers moving blankets for rent at many of its locations across the US. You can check availability and reserve online, and the blankets can be picked up or delivered.
Budget Truck Rental: Budget Truck Rental offers moving blankets for rent at many of its locations across the US. Usually the rental blankets are only available for those who rent one of their trucks. You can reserve blankets when you make your truck rental reservation.
Penske Truck Rental: Penske Truck Rental offers moving blankets for rent at its locations across the US. Similar to Budget Truck Rental, the rental blankets are only available for those who rent one of their trucks. You can reserve blankets when you make your truck rental reservation.
Home Depot: Some Home Depot locations offer moving blankets for rent. It’s an easy way to go. Check with your local store to see if they have them available and what the rental cost is.
Local equipment rental companies: Check with local equipment rental companies to see if they offer moving blankets for rent.

Before renting moving blankets, make sure to check the rental cost, deposit requirements and the rental period.

It’s a good idea to inspect the blankets for any damage or stains before renting them — and to then return them in the same condition to avoid additional fees or charges.

Can I Use Bubble Wrap and Plastic Sheeting Instead of a Moving Blanket

You can substitute something else for a moving blanket. A thick towel or bedsheet should work just fine, or even packing wrap or packing paper.

Bubble wrap and plastic sheeting are two of the best tools at your disposal when it comes to safely moving your furniture. Use bubble wrap to protect delicate pieces and to protect upholstered items.

Do Moving Blankets have Fiberglass?

Some have an inner layer of fiberglass batting insulation. Others may have recycled plastics and nylon.

When Should I Start Packing?

You should start packing for your move at least 3 weeks prior to your anticipated move date. The actual moving preparation process should start at least 6-8 weeks before your move. The earlier you start the packing process, the easier it will be when your move date approaches.

Are Moving Blankets Waterproof?

Moving blankets are typically made of polyester or cotton material.

The cotton ones are usually not waterproof. If a cotton moving blanket gets wet, it needs to dry thoroughly before being stored.

Some moving blankets are treated with water repellent coating. For example, when the cotton is blended with a water-resistant material like polyester, these blankets can repel light amounts of water and keep the water from absorbing into the blanket.

This helps prevent moisture from getting into the blanket and causing mildew.

Are Moving Blankets Stain Resistant?

Some moving blankets are treated with a stain resistant coating. These types of blankets are often made of 100% cotton and are ideal for those who plan to pack their blankets inside a suitcase.

How Easy is it to Rent a Moving Blanket?

It’s very easy to do. UHaul, Budget Trucks and Penske often rent moving blankets when you get one of their trucks. Its super simple to reserve one of their trucks online — and they don’t charge a fee if you cancel up to the day before the reservation time.

With the online truck reservation, you can add other moving supplies to your cart on checkout. You can also call one other their reps and they make it easy to reserve everything you need.

I would like to know how to store moving blankets

To store moving blankets, you should first make sure that they are clean and dry to prevent mold or mildew from forming.

Once they are clean, fold the blankets neatly and store them in a dry and cool area, such as a closet or a storage bin. (That’s how to fold blankets for storage.)

To prevent the blankets from getting damaged, you can wrap them in plastic or cover them with a sheet or cloth to protect them from dust and dirt. You can also label the storage container or bin with the contents to easily identify the blankets later on.

By properly storing your moving blankets, you can prolong their lifespan and keep them in good condition for your next move.

Can you use regular blankets as moving blankets?

Yes, it’s possible to use regular blankets as moving blankets if you are unable to acquire or afford specialized moving blankets. However, it’s essential to know that regular blankets may not provide the same level of protection as moving blankets, since moving blankets are made to be thicker and more robust.

Using regular blankets may also increase the possibility of damage to your belongings during transport since they might not be as effective in preventing scratches, dents or other damage.

If you do use common household blankets, make sure to wrap your items tightly and use additional padding if possible.

Why can’t you machine wash moving blankets?

Moving blankets are typically constructed from robust materials, such as cotton or polyester, and filled with thick padding to shield furniture and other items while in transit.

These materials can be excessively heavy and dense for most household washing machines, and can even cause damage to the machine. Moreover, the padding inside furniture blankets can clump together during the washing process, resulting in reduced effectiveness and protection.

As a result, it is not recommended to machine wash moving blankets, and alternative cleaning methods should be employed, such as spot cleaning or seeking the services of a professional cleaner.

Some people try to sneak the furniture blankets into a laundromat to use heavy duty machine. If caught, the manager of the laundromat will request that to not wash those in their machines.

Tags dolly, furniture moving pad, furniture pad, moving blanket, moving pad, moving storage, rent moving blankets, secure moving, storage blanket

Moving Storage

Places to Get Moving Boxes including Free Moving Boxes (2023)

Post author By Aaron
Post date August 20, 2022
No Comments on Places to Get Moving Boxes including Free Moving Boxes (2023)

Moving into a new home or apartment is exciting, but moving day can also be stressful.

If you’re worried about packing and unpacking, don’t worry – there are ways to make the move easier.

Moving from one place to another can be challenging, especially if you’ve never done it before. Packing and unpacking takes time, energy and patience. There’s no way around it.

Where to Quickly Get Free Moving Boxes

On my last move, I got over twenty free moving boxes by going to a handful of U-Haul dealers near me and sorting through their moving box “leave one, take one” bin. This convenient service allows people to return their slightly used moving boxes so that the next person can use them for a move. Highly recommended.

The Best Plan is to Prepare Ahead of Time

You can minimize stress during the move by preparing ahead of time. The key is to plan out each step of the move.

This means having a checklist of things to pack and unpack, and knowing where they go.

It also means making sure that everything has its own box or bag so that you know what goes with what.

If you’re moving yourself, you may not have much help. But if you hire movers, you can get them to do all the heavy lifting for you.

Hiring professional movers will save you time and money, and give your belongings the best possible care.

If you’re moving locally, consider hiring a mover who offers local services. You can find movers near you online, or ask friends and family for recommendations.

If you‘re moving long distance, you might need to rent a truck or trailer. Renting a vehicle will allow you to transport more items at once.

Make sure you choose a reputable company that provides quality service.

After planning then comes the packing

Take Inventory of What You Have

When you’re ready to start packing, take inventory of what you already have. Look through drawers and your closets to see what you still have.

Don’t forget to include clothing, linens, dishes, silverware, books, coins, toys and other household goods.

Once you’ve packed up as many items as you can, you should now begin organizing.

Start with the room you’ll be using first. Take everything out of the room and put it on the floor.

Then sort through the items and decide which ones you want to keep — and which ones you want to donate or throw away.

Begin Packing

Once you’ve finished sorting through your possessions, you can begin packing. Use boxes and bags to store your items. Label each box or bag clearly so you won’t mix up any of your belongings.

You can also give each box or bag a consecutive number, which can help with making a map of where each it is if you place it into storage.

After the Move

Now that you’ve moved, you’ll probably want to clean up after yourself. Cleaning up after a big move can be exhausting, so try to schedule some downtime between cleaning and packing.

Remember to keep your vacuum saved for last so you can use it to clean the room and then pack it up when finished.

Places to Get Boxes in 2023

While moving day may be fast approaching, there might not be enough free boxes to pack everything up. To be ready, you need to know where to buy them, as well as which price and buying options are most suitable for your budget and timeline.

If you’re looking for places to get moving boxes delivered to your doorstep, consider buying them from retailers who offer delivery services online.

There are lots of different types of boxes available, and we’ll take a look at some of the best ones here.

For our last move, most of our paid for boxes came from Home Depot as they are sturdy and reliable and just around a few dollars each. They have at least four sizes — which worked well for us.

We were also able to pick up a lot of free boxes that previous customers had left at the local UHaul center. They called it the “give and return pile” of boxes. It was very helpful too.

The Top 15 Places to Get Moving Boxes and Boxes for Packing

1. Amazon

Amazon: If you want to get moving boxes delivered to your doorstep right away, then this is the easiest option. Just select “Ship to Home” when ordering, and you’ll receive your boxes within 24 hours.

Amazon’s selection of moving supplies includes boxes, tape, bubble wrap, packing peanuts, labels, packing materials, and even storage containers. They also sell moving pads, moving blankets, and moving rugs.

Amazon uses recycled cardboard boxes for shipping. This means that their boxes are made from 100% recyclable material. While you’re helping the environment by purchasing these boxes, you’re also doing your part to reduce waste.

It does raise an interesting question… when Amazon ships moving boxes to your home — what kind of box do they put the moving boxes in? I’m sure that Amazon will keep you guessing until the boxes quickly arrive at your home.

2. Walmart

Walmart sells a variety of moving supplies including boxes, tape, bubble wraps, moving pads, and moving blankets. They also sell moving mats, moving rugs, and storage bins.

While Walmart doesn’t provide same-day shipping, their prices are competitive and they offer free standard ground shipping on orders over $45.

3. Costco

Costco sells boxes, tape, bubble wrapping, moving pads, moving blankets and moving mats – if you happen to see those items there. They also sell storage bins and storage totes.

You try to get some of their empty used boxes for free — although often they are cut in half for customers to use when taking groceries to their cars.

4. Target

Target sells boxes, tape, moving pads, moving blanket, moving mats, moving rags, and storage bins.

5. Office Depot

Office Depot sells moving boxes, tape, packing paper, moving pads, moving rags, moving blankets, and shipping crates. They also sell moving trolleys, moving totes, and storage totes.

This office supply retailer offers free boxes for customers who purchase certain supplies.

If you’re packing for a move, you may want to consider different types of boxes depending on what you’re packing. You can also buy these items from Office Depot. If you need some heavy duty boxes, Office Depot also sells them.

6. Lowe’s

Lowe’s sells moving boxes, tape, packaging paper, moving pads, and packing paper. They also sell moving rugs, moving blankets, and a variety of storage bins.

Lowes has a wide variety of boxes and has items for home repair while you’re in the store any way.

7. Home Depot

Home Depot sells moving boxes, tape and packing paper. They do not sell moving blankets or moving mats.

This is actually one of my favorite places to get boxes. There’s several Home Depot stores near me and each of them had a good supply of moving boxes when I need.

At HomeDepot.com, there’s a mover’s guide to help you with packing materials and boxes. You can also find boxes of different sizes and kits.

They have a choice between shipping items for free or having them shipped to their local warehouse. Those who want detailed information about products should pick up moving boxes at Home Depot.

These moving boxes are rigidly made for moving and storage of moderately heavy and bulky objects. They are great for books, clothing, small appliances, kitchen utensils, toys and more. This box is made of 100% recycled material for an eco-friendly solution.

8. Bed Bath & Beyond

Bed Bath & Beyond sells boxes, tape, and packing paper. Their site offers a list of tips for packing your belongings.

9. The Container Store

As their name says, the Container Store has rigid boxes, tape, plastic wrap, packing paper, and moving blankets. Everything you’d need for a move and sits among the favorite places to get moving boxes.

10. U-Haul

U-Haul offers moving supplies like sturdy moving boxes, tape, packing material, moving blankets, and more. At many locations, people return their used boxes (in good condition) to U-Haul so that future customers can use those boxes at no cost.

PRO TIP

Check your neighborhood UHaul to see if they have a “take a box, leave a box” in their store. They don’t charge for this and you can often find several used boxes in good condition. This can help with your move. Once you are all moved, it’s good to then bring some moving boxes back to your UHaul so the next person can benefit.

11. Rent A Center

Rent A Center offers moving supplies like boxes and tape.

12. Sears

If you can find one that is still open, Sears sells boxes, tape, wrapping paper, moving blankets, moving pads, and storage bins. They do not sell moving mats or moving rugs. If a nearby Sears is having a close out sale, this could be a good time to pick up discounted items there.

13. Staples

Staples sells boxes, tape, Bubble Wrap, moving blankets, moving rags, packing paper, and storage bins. This is one place that you won’t have to worry about running out of boxes.

14. Party City

When it comes to moving supplies, Party City is not a place that comes to mind immediately. However, Party City does sell boxes, tape, bubbles, moving blankets, moving sheets, and storage bins. These are all things that you can use when you move.

15. The UPS Store

The UPS Store® is a one-stop shop for all about storage and moving. Supplies include sturdy boxes, bubble cushioning and tape. You can also get packing advice from their team of Certified Packing Experts.

Each neighborhood The UPS Store® has strong boxes in a variety of sizes, making it easy to find the right size box to hold your belongings.

Finding Free Moving Boxes

The answer is a definite “yes.”

My favorite places to get moving boxes is at U-Haul. I got several free moving boxes by going to a handful of UHaul dealers near me and sorting through their “leave one, take one” bin.

A storage or moving company may be willing to sell you some boxes. You might also be able to locate some free moving boxes, but it can be hit and miss — and there might not be any available where you live.

For the best price moving boxes, the more places you check, the better your chances of finding a stache of free boxes.

Places to check for boxes include Craigslist, Barnes & Noble, U-Haul Customer Connect, Starbucks, Office Depot, OfficeMax, Walgreens, PetCo, PetSmart, Walmart, Target, WinCo, Costco, LetGo, Facebook, Freecycle, Dollar Stores, and Rite Aid.

If you’re at a store that sells larger products (such as a grocery store), just ask one of the employees if they have some extra boxes lying around.

Once you get done with the boxes, you could return the favor by taking your boxes to a local U-Haul for their “take one leave one” — and the next person with a move can get some free moving boxes that way.

Craigslist

Ask at online sites — like Craigslist — where they might have free moving boxes in the items for sale category.

Craigslist probably has the largest free section of any website out there. They may have free boxes available for anyone who wants them, whether they’re moving from one location to another.

So go directly to the free section and look for your boxes. There are too many choices for you to pick just one!

If you’re lucky enough to find some empty moving containers, they tend to be available early in the week, just after most people have finished packing up their stuff from the weekend.

Local Classifieds

Like Craigslist, local classified ads websites often have many listings for free moving boxes near you. You don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars to get your boxes.

All you need to do is look online and you may find someone who has boxes they’re willing to give away — or even sell you some for just a few bucks. Finding free boxes can be easy when you know where to look.

In addition, you should check the classified ads on other websites such as eBay, Amazon, and Facebook Marketplace.

Petco and PetSmart

Petco and PetSmart may offer free boxes for customers buying pet food, treats, and accessories. With some of the feed bags weighing up to 50 pounds, large boxes are needed to hold those — and they just might have some for you.

Where to Get Specialty Moving Boxes

We first preparing for a move, specialty boxes don’t readily come to mind. After all… a box is a box, isn’t it?

It’s turns out not all boxes are created equal — and that’s a good thing when it comes to large and heavy items.

How do you move a bed or safely pack a big screen TV? That’s when a specially designed box is very useful.

The specialty boxes can be harder to track down. For instance, uhaul has a mattress bag with handles that also keeps the mattress from getting dirty.

Here’s a list of the Specialty boxes you might need:

Mattress Box and/or Bag
Golf Box
Rifle Box
Tennis Racquet Box
Bike Box
Large Screen Television Box

We found that Uhaul had most of those types of specialty boxes at a reasonable price. We just walked in to our local Uhaul and picked up what we needed. They were very helpful. (They are also a great place for propane.)

You can also call the local U-Haul customer service number before heading over to their place. The customer service representative should be able to tell you which boxes you’ll need and how much they cost. They’ll also let you know if they have any specialty boxes you can use.

The UPS Store also offers specialty boxes designed for different types of shipments. These include boxes made specifically for mattresses, TVs, computers, and more.

Carrying boxes is best when done together.

How Many Boxes Will You Need?

That’s a great question when figuring out how many moving boxes to order.

The answer is… it depends on your move size and weight. Look through your things, especially your closet and storage areas. More things means more boxes.

The general rule is to plan on using up to 100 boxes of various sizes to completely pack up belongings from a 1,600 square-foot home.

If you’re moving across town, then you may only need a few boxes. However, if you’re moving cross country, you’ll often need more than that.

For example, if you’re moving from Los Angeles to San Francisco, and you have three rooms then you’ll need approximately 10 boxes. That’s because it takes three boxes to cover an average sized room.

When you’re planning your move, make sure to factor in the weight of each box. This can help you determine how many boxes you’ll need.

For example, if you plan on using a dolly to transport your boxes, you’ll need more boxes than if you were going to carry them yourself.

Also, keep in mind that you’ll need to buy boxes for every single item you’re taking with you. You might not be able to reuse old boxes.

So if you’re moving across town and you have a lot of items, you’ll need a lot of boxes. On the other hand, if you’re moving to a new apartment and you have very little stuff, you’ll probably only need 2 boxes.

In conclusion, the cost for moving boxes adds up quickly and fortunately there are several ways to save money on getting moving boxes. If you want to save the most money, you’ll want to consider finding free boxes first and then purchase the rest.

However if you’re looking to save time, you’ll just want to purchase boxes.

Either way, you’ll want to find the best deal possible. So shop around online and ask friends who’ve moved recently.

After the move, you can then unpack, clean and relax.

After the move, be sure to take a moment to relax.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find moving boxes near me?

Fortunately there are many places to places to get boxes.

You can find moving boxes near you by checking the following sources:

Home improvement stores: Stores like Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Menards often sell moving boxes in various sizes.
Office supply stores: Stores like Office Depot and Staples usually carry moving and packing supplies, including boxes.
Shipping stores: UPS, FedEx, and USPS stores offer shipping boxes that can also be used for moving purposes.
Online retailers: Amazon, U-Haul, and other online retailers sell moving boxes and can deliver them to your doorstep.
Grocery stores: Many grocery stores receive shipments in sturdy boxes that can be reused for moving. Call your local grocery store and ask if they have any spare boxes available for pickup.
Liquor stores: Liquor stores often have strong, durable boxes that can be ideal for packing fragile items. Check with your local liquor store for box availability.
Bookstores: Bookstores typically have sturdy boxes due to the weight of the books they receive. Contact your local bookstore to see if they have any spare boxes.
Friends and family: Ask friends, family, and neighbors if they have any extra moving boxes from a recent move or if they can save boxes for you from their online orders.
Social media and online classifieds: Check local Facebook groups, Freecycle, or Craigslist for people giving away moving boxes for free or at a low cost.

Remember to ask for a variety of box sizes to accommodate different types of items during your move.

How many boxes do I need to move?

Many people ask us this question of how many moving boxes do I need.

The number of boxes you need for your move depends on various factors, including the size of your home, the amount of belongings you have, and how efficiently you pack.

Here’s a general guideline to help estimate the number of boxes you may need:

Studio or 1-bedroom apartment: 20-40 boxes
2-bedroom apartment or small house: 40-60 boxes
3-bedroom house: 60-80 boxes
4-bedroom house: 80-100 boxes
Larger homes: 100+ boxes

These estimates can change a lot based on your specific circumstances.

To get have a better guess, consider the following:

Take inventory of your items, including clothing, kitchenware, books and other belongings.
Think about the packing materials you’ll need for fragile items, such as bubble wrap or packing paper, which may require additional boxes.
Consider the size of your furniture and whether it can be disassembled. Some items may require specialized boxes or crates.
Keep in mind that heavier items should be packed in smaller boxes, while lighter items can be packed in larger boxes.

It’s always better to have a few extra boxes on hand, as it’s common to underestimate the number of boxes needed. You can always give away or recycle unused boxes after your move — many people do exactly that (so that others can receive their free boxes).

Tags free boxes, free moving boxes, moving boxes, where to get moving boxes

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