Moving Supplies for a Move in San Marcos, CA
The Right Moving Supplies Makes All the Difference
Moving with the wrong materials—like plastic bags or newspapers—rarely goes smoothly. Spoiler: it usually turns into a disaster. When you use proper supplies, your belongings stay safe and your move is much smoother. Starving Students has been providing professional moves since 1973 and we’re experts in choosing the perfect moving supplies!
What are Essential Moving Supplies?
Boxes That Actually Hold Up
Don’t assume every box is up for the job! You want sturdy boxes in various sizes, like:
- Small boxes (perfect for books and heavy items) This is typically a 1”x1”x24” box.
- Medium boxes (ideal for most household goods) This is 2 ft x 2 ft.
- Large boxes (great for linens, pillows, and light items)
- Wardrobe boxes (move clothes on their hangers)
- Dish packs (specially designed for kitchenware)
We’re not suggesting you can’t repurpose free used boxes, simply suggesting that they meet the suggestions above.


Protective Packing Materials
Keep your possessions secure with:
- Bubble wrap (for fragile items)
- Packing paper (won’t stain like newsprint)
- Furniture pads (moving blankets) (prevent scratches and damage)
- Mattress bags (keep your bed clean during the move)
- Stretch wrap (secure drawers and bundle items together)
- Bungee, ratchet, and/or tie-down straps for things you might move yourself
It’s way too easy to cut corners and skimp on proper packing material just to regret it later.
Sealing & Labeling Products & Tools
Leave the duct tape for duct work, you want to use packing tape, which is for, ahem, packing.
- Heavy-duty packing tape (don't skimp here!)
- Tape dispensers (trust us, your teeth and sanity will be grateful)
- Permanent markers (for labeling boxes)
- Pre-printed labels or stickers (for room identification)
- Pre-printed fragile labels or big red markers!


Moving Tools & Helpful Accessories
Here are a few things that will make moving a bit easier.
- A dolly cart will save a lot of back aches and hassle
- Furniture sliders can be very helpful
- Bungies and ratchet straps often come in handy
- Visqueen or tarps are important if you’re DIY moving with pickup trucks or open trailers
- Box cutters will be important to have when you start unpacking
Tips for Money-Saving Packing in San Marcos
When you want to save money, consider:
- Pick up sturdy used boxes from local retailers
- Wrap fragile goods with everyday linens, toys, or even socks
- Collect old papers ahead of time for extra padding
- Reach out to recent movers for leftover boxes and packing tools
No Time to Track Down Supplies for Your Upcoming Move?
Get A Free Packing Quote for San Marcos from Starving Students, Including supplies to make your move easy.