How to Use Packing Paper for Moving

Preparing to move? Before you start boxing up the household, make sure you have the right moving supplies on-hand. This should include one of the most essential moving supplies available: packing paper. Fortunately, newsprint paper is easy to find and easy to use. Wrapping fragile items in packing paper is one of the most foolproof ways to prevent damage to your belongings. Thanks to its long-lasting durability, it’s also possible to reuse old paper for your next move – saving you a bit of money in the long run. If you prefer to get rid of it, the good news is that newsprint paper is typically 100 percent recyclable. For more information about how to use packing paper for moving, keep reading.

What is packing paper?

Packing paper is one of the most economical and sensible ways to protect items when you move. This ink-free newsprint paper is typically sold in large rolls, making it a good value for your money. Packing paper can be used to wrap everything from wine glasses and dinnerware to fragile knick-knacks and books. The paper can also be used to fill in empty spaces in moving boxes in order to prevent items from shifting while in transit. As someone who’s moved numerous times, I can personally attest to newsprint paper’s durability and ease. I can’t imagine packing up my kitchen to move without it. Not only can you wrap the outside of fragile items, but you can also use the paper to fill in space inside the items to prevent them from breaking. So, for instance, with a water glass, you can wrap the outside in paper while also stuffing the inside with extra paper. This makes it nearly impossible for the glass to break while it’s in transit and adds an extra layer of protection.

Why do I need newsprint paper when I move?

Wrapping items in paper is a simple, mess-free way of protecting your household belongings during a move. Not only will you need newsprint paper to wrap small items before placing them in boxes, but you’ll also need it to fill in the gaps and empty space between items in boxes. This will help serve as a buffer for your belongings, preventing them from shifting while on the road.

What household items should be wrapped in packing paper?

Small to medium size fragile items are best suited for newsprint paper. Examples of items that are commonly wrapped in newsprint paper when moving, include:

Dishes
Bowls
Glassware
Valuables and collectibles
Vases
Small electronics
Small appliances
Pots and pans
Large utensils

How do I use packing paper to protect belongings?

Here’s how to use packing paper to protect items when you move:

Tear or cut the appropriate amount of paper from the roll for each of your items.
Wrap the items in paper until you feel they are property protected. For some items this may only mean wrapping the item in one layer of packing paper, while for others it could mean several layers.
Stuff the inside of items (think: cups, mugs and glasses) with paper.
Tape paper, if needed. Packing paper usually stays put and doesn’t require tape to keep it together. However, for larger items, you may want to add another layer of security by adding tape.
When placing items inside a moving box, be sure to fill in any empty gaps with extra paper.

Where can I buy packing paper?

Newsprint paper is easy to find. You can find it at many home improvement stores as well as almost any place that also sells moving boxes and other supplies. Several stores where you can buy newsprint paper include The Home Depot, Lowe’s Home Improvement, ULINE, Walmart, Amazon, Target, Bed Bath and Beyond, Ace Hardware and U-Haul – just to name a few. Prices vary, but you can expect a bundle of paper to cost anywhere between $10 and $40, depending on how much is included with the pack.

Can I rent packing paper?

No. Given that paper crumples easily and takes the shape of whatever it’s wrapped around, it isn’t possible to rent newsprint paper. Once it’s been used for packing, the paper does not retain its original smooth condition. While you can’t rent paper, you should be able to recycle it or reuse it once the move is complete.

Are there alternatives to packing paper that I can use?

If you prefer to not to use packing paper, there are several useful alternatives. The first is bubble rolls, which are cushioned plastic materials that use air bubbles to protect items. While this bubble cushioning is an excellent alternative to paper, it isn’t as compact, and you may not get as much bang for your buck as you would for packing paper. Other alternatives also include foam pouches and foam paper, newspaper, packing peanuts and stretch wrap.

Do professional movers supply packing paper for customers?

Professional movers do not typically supply packing paper for customers unless the customer is paying the mover to pack up their belongings. Those hiring professional packers won’t need to purchase paper. Professional packers will provide moving supplies, including boxes and newsprint paper, to make sure everything is packed safely and securely.

What other packing materials and moving supplies will I need?

Paper isn’t the only thing you’ll need when packing and moving your belongings. From moving boxes and plastic bins to tape and markers, here’s a list of other important packing materials and moving supplies you may need when moving.

Packing tape
Scissors
Sharpie markers
Labels
Bubble cushion rolls
Plastic wrap (also known as stretch wrap)
Truck rental
Moving straps
Hand truck or dolly
Moving trailers
Glass and dish packing kits
Packing peanuts
A toolbox
Mattress covers
Moving blankets
Foam pouches
Cardboard moving boxes
Plastic bins

For a definitive list of moving supplies, check here.

Moving soon?

So you’ve gathered moving supplies and are ready to start packing. Now, all you need to do is find the best moving company to move your belongings. Fortunately, we can help. Check Moving.com’s extensive network of reputable and reliable movers to find the best moving company for your needs. All relocation companies in our network are licensed and insured, so you can rest assured that your move will be in good hands. Good luck and happy moving!