Choose packaging for the contents, not just the amount of space in the house. Small sturdy boxes suit dense items; larger boxes work better for lighter bulky belongings. Box capacity and maximum load vary, so check the supplier's information and keep each box comfortable for the people handling it.
Match the material to the item
Clean packing paper can separate surfaces, while suitable cushioning protects fragile items against movement. Dividers can help with glassware. Furniture covers keep surfaces clean but do not replace protection for vulnerable corners. Use clean materials that will not stain or abrade the object.
Inspect reused boxes
- Reject boxes that are damp, weak, contaminated or badly crushed.
- Remove or cover old labels so the destination is unambiguous.
- Check the base and seams before filling.
- Avoid relying on an open supermarket tray for a loose stack of delicate items.
Buy in stages
Estimate the load, pack a representative cupboard and adjust the quantity before buying the rest. An unused return option can be useful, but check its terms. Keep a little spare material for the final kitchen items and belongings found late in the process.
Think about the next use
Choose reusable materials where they protect the item properly. Keep useful boxes dry after the move and flatten others for the appropriate local recycling route. Do not sacrifice protection for a claimed environmental benefit if it makes breakage more likely.
Use the box estimate as a planning range, then price the actual pack sizes and delivery charges in the materials planner. Neither tool can inspect your possessions, so specialist objects need specific advice.
Put it into practice
Use the packing materials cost planner to organise your own figures or next steps. Keep its assumptions alongside your plan.