Moving Packing Supplies Checklist: Everything You Need

Essential Packing Supplies for Every Move

Before you pack a single item, make sure you have the right supplies on hand. Running out of tape or bubble wrap mid-pack is frustrating and slows everything down. For a typical Montreal 4½ apartment, you'll need roughly 30–40 medium boxes, 10–15 small boxes, 5–10 large boxes, and at least 3 rolls of packing tape. Add a permanent marker, a box cutter, and you're off to a solid start.

Don't overlook packing paper — it's more versatile than bubble wrap for wrapping dishes and glassware. You can pick up supplies at Canadian Tire, Home Depot, or order online. If you're on a budget, check local Montreal buy-nothing groups on Facebook or ask your neighbourhood SAQ for free wine boxes — they're sturdy and perfectly sized for books.

Specialty Materials for Fragile Items

Bubble wrap and foam sheets are essential for electronics, artwork, and antiques. Dish pack inserts — cardboard dividers that slot into boxes — protect glasses and stemware far better than wrapping each one individually. For mirrors and framed art, pick up telescoping mirror boxes or build corner protectors from cardboard scraps.

Stretch wrap (the clear plastic film) is your best friend for keeping dresser drawers shut and bundling awkward items like lamp stands. A few furniture blankets or moving pads round out the list and prevent scratches during Montreal's notorious narrow-staircase carries.

How Many Supplies Do You Need?

The biggest mistake people make is underestimating. A good rule of thumb is one medium box per room plus five extra boxes as a buffer. For a 5½ in the Plateau or Rosemont, budget for 50–60 boxes total. Always buy 10–15% more tape and paper than you think you'll need — returns are easy, but emergency supply runs on moving morning are not.