Packing Supplies Calculator
Packing supplies for a 2BR cost $100–$250 including 40–60 boxes, 5–7 rolls of tape, 75 feet of bubble wrap, and 6–10 furniture pads. A 3BR needs $200–$400. Buy in bulk from Amazon to save 20–40%.
Packing Cost = (Boxes x $2–$5) + Tape + Bubble Wrap + Paper + Specialty Items
Running out of packing supplies mid-move wastes time and money. This calculator tells you exactly what you need based on home size. Order moving box kits, packing tape, and bubble wrap from Amazon to save 20–40%.
What This Means
These estimates are based on national averages from licensed moving companies and industry data for 2026. Your actual costs may vary by 10–15%. Use this as a starting point and get multiple quotes.
Recommended Moving Supplies
Editor's picks to make your move easier and more affordable
Medium Moving Boxes (20-Pack)
Sturdy 18x14x12" corrugated boxes. Ideal for kitchenware, books, and general household items.
Check Price on AmazonLarge Moving Boxes (12-Pack)
Heavy-duty 20x20x15" boxes for bedding, lampshades, and bulky lightweight items.
Check Price on AmazonBook Boxes Small (25-Pack)
Extra-strong 16x12x12" boxes designed for heavy books, records, and tools.
Check Price on AmazonScotch Heavy Duty Packing Tape (6-Pack)
Industrial-strength tape with dispenser. Seals boxes securely for long-distance moves.
Check Price on AmazonBubble Wrap Roll 12" x 36ft
Perforated cushioning wrap for fragile items like dishes, glassware, and electronics.
Check Price on AmazonPacking Paper 200 Sheets
Clean, unprinted newsprint paper for wrapping dishes, glasses, and delicate items.
Check Price on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate, we may earn from qualifying purchases. This does not affect our editorial recommendations.
Packing Supplies by Home Size
| Item | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | 4BR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small boxes | 5–8 | 8–15 | 15–22 | 22–30 | 30–45 |
| Medium boxes | 3–6 | 6–12 | 12–18 | 18–25 | 25–35 |
| Large boxes | 2–4 | 4–8 | 8–14 | 12–18 | 16–25 |
| Wardrobe boxes | 1 | 1–2 | 2–3 | 3–4 | 4–6 |
| Tape rolls | 2–3 | 3–5 | 5–7 | 7–10 | 10–15 |
| Bubble wrap (ft) | 25 | 50 | 75 | 100 | 150 |
| Furniture pads | 2–4 | 4–6 | 6–10 | 10–15 | 15–20 |
| Cost | $50–$120 | $80–$180 | $120–$280 | $200–$400 | $300–$550 |
Packing Tips from Professional Movers
- Heavy items in small boxes
- Light items in large boxes
- Fill every box completely
- Wrap fragiles individually
- Label three sides of each box
- Pack an essentials box (toiletries, chargers, medications)
- Use wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do packing supplies cost?
$50–$120 for a studio, $80–$180 for 1BR, $120–$280 for 2BR, $200–$400 for 3BR, $300–$550 for 4BR.
How many rolls of tape do I need?
2–3 for studio, 3–5 for 1BR, 5–7 for 2BR, 7–10 for 3BR, 10–15 for 4BR. Each roll seals 8–12 boxes.
What is the best way to pack dishes?
Wrap each plate individually in packing paper. Stack vertically (on edge) in small or dish-pack boxes. Fill gaps with crumpled paper. Mark FRAGILE.
Do I need wardrobe boxes?
Not strictly necessary but they keep clothes clean. Budget 1 per 2 feet of closet space. $8–$15 each. Alternative: garbage bags over clothes on hangers.
Where can I get free packing supplies?
Grocery stores, liquor stores, Nextdoor, bookstores, U-Haul Box Exchange. Use towels and socks instead of bubble wrap for non-fragiles.