Moving Supplies: Packing Paper

When moving or planning a move, you have to know the role that each moving supplies plays in the moving process. Almost all moving supplies are essential to moving. There may be cheaper alternatives to some but they are all indispensable to the whole moving process. One very important facet of the moving supplies category is the packing paper or (wrapping paper).

Wrapping or packing paper is required for almost any type of moving. There is not any area or household article where packing paper is not used. Here is an outline of the uses of wrapping paper in the moving process:

• Packing paper is great for protecting fragile items like knick-knacks, figurines, crystals, curios, etc. When these items are wrapped in packing paper, they avoid damage in moving.
• Using packing paper is the most economical way to protect fragile items. It is an inexpensive alternative to wrapping breakable items.
• When items are packed in the boxes and there is extra space or space in between items the articles may rub against each other and be damaged in moving. Paper can be used as filler in these spaces and in the corners of the boxes immobilize the articles.
• Packing paper can be used to wrap almost any household article. It is used extensively to pack kitchenware such as bottles, kitchen accessories, stemware, glassware, crockery, plates, silver, cutlery, china, etc.
• Packing paper can be used to wrap books and related items.
• They can be used to pack lamp shades, electronics, speakers, small appliances etc.
• Tapes, CDs, stereos and records can be packed in wrapping paper.
• Paintings, photos, any glass-covered artwork, etc. can be wrapped in paper.
• Packing paper can be used to pack mirrors or any glass or other breakable items.
• Clothes, linens, etc. can be wrapped in packing paper.

When packing some items, it is better to use it in conjunction with other moving supply accessories because paper can tear if the item has sharp edges or corners. Double-wrapping prevents any sort of damage. For example, when wrapping stemware, glass or knives, you can use cushion foam or bubble wrap and cover them in packing paper. This gives extra protection and prevents the paper from tearing.

Here is a brief list of cheap alternatives to buying packing paper:

• Newspaper or discarded papers are very good cheap alternatives.
• Newspapers make excellent fillers. They can be crumpled and used to fill extra spaces or used as added protection in the box. Care should be taken to see that the newsprint does not smudge or rub off on the items.
• Department or an electronics stores may have packing paper they have discarded after unpacking their goods.

Certain articles require specific care when packing. Here are some basic packing techniques:

• China -wrap each item separately in paper and place in a partitioned box.
• Stemware - wrap the stems for extra protection then wrap each glass separately and place upside down in the partitioned box.
• Mirrors and glass-covered photos - wrap in a cushion of paper and place in the moving box.
• Silver - place in groups of 2-3, wrap securely with packing paper.
• Lamp Shades - wrap in packing paper and placed together with crumpled paper put in the edges.
• Glass jars and bottles - pack with bubble wrap and/or several layers of packing paper then secure with tape.

The packing paper that is sold in stores is generally sold in bundles. A minimum of 25-50 lb. (24”x36”) bundle of sheets are sold. Each bundle contains about 600 sheets. The more the packing paper is used, the better. Since paper is a natural product, it is environment friendly and can be recycled.