13 Must-Have Buys to Make Moving a Breeze

A multi-position, folding dolly is a must-have for the moving process. With the click of a single button, this dolly transforms into your choice of a four-wheeled cart or a two-wheel upright hand truck — both ideal for stacking and transporting moving boxes. When not in use, it folds down flat and can easily be stored in the trunk of your car. While this dolly is durable and practical for boxes and other small items, it does have a 300-pound weight capacity and is not suited for larger appliances or heavy furniture that exceed that weight.

Moving heavy appliances just got a whole lot easier with these shoulder lifting and moving straps. The two-person straps are ergonomically designed to facilitate proper lifting, reducing the strain and pain that can come from lifting heavy items. The supportive and wide design of the harnesses allows for carrying up to 800 pounds, evenly distributing the weight between the two harnesses and the center strap below the item being moved.

Trust us when we say a tape dispenser gun will alleviate a lot of the wasted time and frustration that comes with using packing tape. This pack of two dispensers features heavy-duty metal housing mechanisms that allow the tape to unroll smoothly. The set also comes with two rolls of packing tape to get you started.

Nix confusion and know exactly what is in each moving box and which room it belongs in with color-coded labels. These brightly-hued stickers boast large lettering to indicate different rooms in the house your boxes would go such as the kitchen, living room, bedrooms, bathrooms, office and even storage. Utilize the blank lines on each sticker to jot down the contents of the box.

Gone are the days of piling your coats, long dresses and other hung clothes in your backseat or trying to cram them all in one garment bag. Introducing wardrobe boxes. These clever boxes feature a metal hanging bar, convenient front access pane and hand holes for easy carrying — essentially a mobile closet.

For bedding, bath linens and additional clothes, these heavy-duty zip-up bags are great for carrying large quantities in fewer trips. The bags feature handle straps so you can tote them on one shoulder as well as backpack straps so you can carry them hands-free.

For fragile items that need a little more protection, opt for foam cushion sheets. The sheets are made of premium foam, are shock absorbing and can be cut to maneuver around any shape such as drinking glasses, dinnerware, decorative items and other breakables.

Protect large, un-boxable items such as TVs, mirrors, furniture or artwork with a heavy-duty moving blanket. This double-sided quilted tarp utilizes recycled cotton padding to safeguard items from scuffs and scratches. The peace of mind is worth the price of a few blankets.

Ensure your belongings don't slide around or fall over during the moving process with ratchet tie-down straps. This pack of four 15-foot straps features metal ratchet closures with paddles that connect to the end of the straps for adjustable hold and tension. The heavy-duty straps are woven with reinforced stitching that boasts a breaking strength of 1,800+ pounds.

One thing that's often overlooked on moving day is the mattress. Sure, you could throw it in the back of a moving van uncovered, but you risk damage and/or stains. Ensure your mattress is protected with a mattress bag. This set comes with two bags, so your box spring has a home as well. They're water- and dust-resistant, so you're pretty much guaranteed a great first night's sleep in your new place.

Transport pantry items, cleaning supplies and other products you'll need on day one in your new place with collapsible storage boxes. This durable plastic crate is small enough to fit in the trunk of your car and features a see-through exterior so you know exactly what's in it. After the move, use the box for organizing or fold it flat and out of sight when not in use.

Easily move bulky comforters, blankets and pillows with vacuum-sealed storage bags. Simply pack, zip the airtight zippers and vacuum out the air to reduce the bag size by 80%. Keep in mind that the bags will feel a lot heavier once compacted.

Extra-large furniture and other very heavy household items such as an entertainment center, piano or filing cabinet will require the use of a dolly with a larger weight capacity. This four-wheel furniture dolly boasts an impressive 1,000-pound weight limit and features carpeted ends to help protect and cushion the load. The dolly can also be used to transport stacks of moving boxes.