Packing Supplies: What You Really Need (and What You Don't)


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January 9th, 2026


Packing Supplies: What You Really Need (and What You Don't)

Walking into a moving supply store can feel overwhelming. Walls of boxes, endless rolls of bubble wrap, and products you've never heard of—it's easy to either overbuy or forget something essential. The truth? You don't need everything on those shelves. But you do need the right things. At Stow It Self Storage, we've helped thousands of customers in Owen Sound and Port Elgin pack and store their belongings safely. Here's what actually matters, and what you can skip.

The Must-Have Packing Supplies

1. Sturdy Cardboard Boxes (Multiple Sizes)

Using the right box size prevents crushing, injuries, and headaches. We carry:
  • Small Box (1.5 cu ft): Books, tools, canned goods
  • Medium Box (3.0 cu ft): Kitchen items, toys, décor
  • Extra Large Box (6.0 cu ft): Bedding, pillows, lightweight clothing
  • Specialty boxes: Document boxes, mirror boxes, Sport Utility Boxes, and Flat Screen TV Boxes (covering 40″-86″ TVs)
Pro tip: Never put heavy items in large boxes. Your back (and your belongings) will thank you.

2. Wardrobe Boxes

These are game-changers for moving day:
  • Shorty Wardrobe (10 cu ft): 34″ tall with 24″ bar—perfect for shorter garments, folded items, or tight spaces
  • Grande (14 cu ft): Full height with 24″ bar—for longer coats, dresses, and maximum hanging space
They're not just for clothes—use them for dining chairs, sporting equipment, and anything you want to keep vertical and protected.

3. Packing Paper (Newsprint)

Essential for wrapping dishes, glassware, and filling empty space inside boxes. It prevents scratching and absorbs shock better than towels or old clothing, which you'll want to use yourself, not sacrifice to your move.

4. Bubble Wrap

Your best defense against breakage.
Use it for:
  • Electronics and screens
  • Picture frames and mirrors
  • Fragile décor and collectibles
Don't skimp here—broken items cost more than extra bubble wrap.

5. Stretch Wrap

This is the unsung hero of moving. Use it to:
  • Keep drawers and cabinet doors closed
  • Bundle loose items together
  • Protect furniture from dust and scratches
Unlike tape, it doesn't leave sticky residue on your furniture.

6. Mattress Bags & TV Covers

Ontario's climate changes fast—dust, moisture, and temperature swings can damage unprotected items. Our mattress bags and TV covers keep everything clean and dry, whether you're moving across town or storing long-term.

7. Quality Packing Tape & Tape Guns

Cheap tape fails when you need it most. We carry professional-grade packing tape and tape guns that make sealing boxes faster and more secure. Two or three strips across the bottom = peace of mind.

8. Box Kits for Fragile Items

Save time and stress with our specialty kits:
  • Glass Saver Kit: Pre-sized dividers for glassware
  • Dish Saver Kit: Everything you need to pack dishes safely
These kits take the guesswork out of protecting your most breakable items.

9. Heavy Duty Moving Cart & Moving Blankets (For Rent)

These aren't just convenient—they're essential for protecting furniture and preventing injury:
  • Heavy Duty Appliance/Utility Cart: One powerful cart that handles everything—appliances, boxes, furniture, and more
  • Moving Blankets: Protect furniture from scratches and dings
Available for rent at both Stow It locations—no need to buy equipment you'll only use once.

What You Don't Need (Save Your Money)

❌ Garbage bags for storage — They trap moisture and can cause mildew❌ Old grocery or liquor store boxes — Weak, dirty, and inconsistent sizes❌ Random plastic wrap from the kitchen — Tears too easily❌ Oversized boxes for heavy items — Recipe for disaster❌ Too much filler material — Causes shifting and crushing. Bigger boxes don't mean better packing. They mean heavier lifting and more accidents.

How Much Should You Buy?

Here's a quick guide for an average 1–2 bedroom apartment:
Small Boxes: 10–15 Medium Boxes: 10–15 Extra Large Boxes: 5–10 Newsprint Bundle: 1–2 Bubble Wrap: 1–2 rolls Packing Tape: 3–4 rolls Mattress Bag: 1–2 Stretch Wrap: 1 roll

Smart Ways to Save (Without Cutting Corners)

✔ Use the right box sizes — Fewer crushed items = fewer replacements ✔ Invest in specialty kits — Dish and Glass Saver Kits prevent costly breakage ✔ Don't over-pack boxes — Heavy boxes break and cause injuries ✔ Rent our heavy duty cart instead of buying — Use professional equipment without the investment ✔ Get everything in one trip — Save time and fuel

One-Stop Shopping at Stow It

Why make multiple trips? At Stow It Self Storage in Owen Sound and Port Elgin, we carry everything you need:
Boxes:
  • Small (1.5 cu ft) and Medium (3.0 cu ft)
  • Extra Large (6.0 cu ft)
  • Document boxes
  • Large mirror boxes
  • Sport Utility Boxes
  • Flat Screen TV Boxes (40″-86″)
  • Wardrobe boxes (Shorty and Grande sizes)
Packing Materials:
  • Bubble wrap
  • Stretch wrap
  • Newsprint
  • Mattress bags
  • TV covers
  • Packing tape & tape guns
  • Tie-down rope
Specialty Kits:
  • Glass Saver Kit
  • Dish Saver Kit
Equipment Rentals:
  • Heavy Duty Appliance/Utility Cart
  • Moving blankets
No guesswork. No extra stops. Just grab what you need and get moving.

Final Thought

Good packing protects your stuff. Great packing protects your peace of mind. Not sure what you need for your move or storage unit? Our team at Stow It is happy to help. Stop by our Owen Sound or Port Elgin location, or give us a call, we're here to make your move easier. Stow It Self StoragePort Elgin: (519) 389-7700 | stowitpe@stowit.ca Owen Sound: (519) 376-8831 | stowitos@stowit.ca Shop Moving Supplies | View Our Locations | Read More Tips

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