When it comes to moving in Chico, CA, the difference between a smooth move and a stressful one often comes down to your packing supplies. Choosing the right materials ensures your belongings are protected, organized, and easy to move — and it saves your crew time on moving day, since well-packed boxes load and stack faster.

At Murdock’s Moving & Storage, we’ve handled thousands of moves across Northern California, and we know exactly what you need to pack like a pro.

1. Sturdy Moving Boxes (in All Sizes)

Use high-quality boxes in small, medium, and large sizes. Avoid reused boxes that may already be weakened from a previous trip. Small boxes are best for heavy items like books and canned goods, while large boxes work well for light, bulky items like pillows, linens, and lampshades. A good rule of thumb: if you can’t comfortably lift a full box, it’s the wrong size for what’s inside it.

2. Packing Paper & Bubble Wrap

Use packing paper for wrapping dishes, glasses, and other breakables. Bubble wrap adds extra cushioning for fragile or valuable items like picture frames, lamps, and electronics. Avoid newspaper — the ink can transfer and stain light-colored items, especially dishware and fabric.

3. Packing Tape & Dispenser

Invest in strong, heavy-duty tape (skip the dollar-store variety) and a proper dispenser for speed and consistency. Double-tape the bottom of each box in an H pattern for added strength, especially on boxes carrying anything heavy.

4. Stretch Wrap

Plastic stretch wrap is great for bundling drawers shut, keeping cushions on furniture, and protecting upholstered pieces from scratches and dust during transport. It’s also handy for grouping loose items like lamps and cords together so nothing gets separated in the truck.

📦 Book a full-service move with Murdock’s and get free professional-grade moving boxes!

5. Labels & Markers

Clear labeling helps you — and your movers — know what’s inside each box and where it should go in your new home. Use color-coded labels by room and write “FRAGILE” in bold on anything breakable. Numbering boxes and keeping a simple master list on your phone also makes unpacking far less chaotic.

6. Mattress Bags & Furniture Covers

Protect your furniture and mattresses from dirt, moisture, and damage. These covers are especially helpful if items will sit in storage for a while or if you’re moving during one of Chico’s rainy stretches, typically between late fall and early spring.

7. Moving Blankets & Dollies

Protect larger items with padded moving blankets. Dollies and hand trucks make it far easier to move heavy boxes or furniture without straining your back — or scuffing your flooring on the way out the door.

Room-by-Room Packing Order

If you’re not sure where to start, pack in this general order to keep momentum without disrupting daily life before moving day:

  • Storage areas, garage, and closets first (least-used items)
  • Guest rooms and seasonal decor
  • Books, media, and decorative items
  • Kitchen (keep a small “open first” box of daily dishes)
  • Bedrooms and bathrooms last, since you’ll use them until moving day

🎯 Need help packing? Contact Murdock’s Moving today — we offer packing help, supplies, and full-service moves throughout Chico!

Final Thoughts

Using the right packing supplies can make your move faster, safer and easier to organize. Whether you’re moving across Chico or out of state, Murdock’s Moving & Storage can provide packing materials or handle the packing for you.

Need supplies or packing assistance? Reach out to us today and we’ll get you moving in the right direction.

📍 Serving: Chico, Roseville, Lincoln, North Sacramento, Yuba City & nearby communities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What packing supplies are essential for a move in Chico? The essentials include sturdy moving boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, and markers for labeling. Murdock’s Moving in Chico also provides professional-grade supplies to keep your belongings safe.

Where can I get quality packing supplies in Chico? You can purchase supplies at hardware stores, office supply shops, or directly from movers. Murdock’s Moving in Chico offers durable boxes and protective materials designed for safe transport.

Do I really need bubble wrap and packing paper? Yes, these supplies are important for protecting fragile items like dishes, glassware, and electronics. Murdock’s Moving in Chico recommends bubble wrap for delicate items and packing paper for filling empty spaces.

How many moving boxes will I need for my move in Chico? The number of boxes depends on the size of your home and how many belongings you have. Murdock’s Moving in Chico can help estimate the right quantity and provide the exact supplies you’ll need.

Can movers provide packing supplies along with moving services? Yes. Murdock’s can supply packing materials or handle full or partial packing for you.