How to Use Plastic Wrap for Moving

Plastic stretch wrap: The moving supply you didn’t know you needed

Next to moving boxes and packing tape, plastic stretch wrap is one of the most useful (and often underrated) supplies to have on hand when preparing for a move.

Let’s review where to buy plastic wrap (aka moving film, stretch film or shrink wrap), why it’s a necessary purchase, and the different ways you can use it during your move.

Where to buy moving film

Plastic wrap is available online and at most mass-market retailers that sell moving supplies. It comes in multiple widths and lengths. Stretch wrap is easiest to use when the package includes a handle dispenser. 

It’s better to buy more wrap than you might need to avoid running out while packing. Most businesses will allow you to return unopened rolls, just check the store’s policy first.

Review the best places to purchase moving supplies.

Benefits of stretch wrap

Plastic stretch wrap helps protect your belongings in transit. 

Here’s what’s so great about it:

• Affordable
• Can be torn by hand
• Easy to use
• Lightweight
• Non-adhesive (no sticky residue)
• Offers protection from dirt, dust and moisture
• Versatile 

Learn about other essential tools and gear for moving day.

Top 3 ways to use plastic stretch wrap when moving

Here are the 3 most common uses for shrink wrap while moving:

1. Protect and secure furniture and appliances

To keep furniture clean and damage free during transit, use plastic wrap as a final layer over moving blankets or paper padding. When preparing couches for moving, start wrapping at the bottom of the pieces and work your way up. The wrap will stick to itself, but you can secure the end with packing tape for extra hold.

Plastic wrap can also prevent doors and drawers from opening while moving dressers and other furniture. Heavy doors and drawers should be secured with twine or straps in addition to plastic wrap.

Shrink wrap can keep electrical cords contained, preventing damage to appliances or tripping hazards during the transport of refrigerators and laundry machines.

2. Waterproof or prevent leaks

During rainy-day moves, stretch wrap can be used to temporarily waterproof moving boxes or to keep other items dry. Just cover the boxes in plastic to protect them from moisture when loading or unloading the moving equipment. 

You can also use plastic wrap to prevent spills when packing makeup and toiletries. Just open the products, place the film over the openings and close the bottles to better seal the products.

3. Bundle together loose objects 

To keep loose items together, wrap them in plastic stretch wrap. This works well for bundling things like cords, bed frame rails, curtain rods and even rolled rugs.

When you shouldn’t use stretch wrap

While plastic film works well for many applications, there are some situations where you should skip it:

• As cushioning for fragile items
• For mattresses in storage
• In direct contact with wood or leather
• On items in storage in extreme heat or humidity
• On pieces with sharp edges that might tear the plastic wrap
• To secure extremely heavy doors or drawers

Ready for your move?

If you’re still in the planning process for your move to another state, don’t miss out on your free, personalized U-Pack® quote. U-Pack is a DIY moving service with nearly 30 years of experience in long-distance moves. Call 844-362-5303844-594-3077 or request your quote online.

Check out our professional packing tips to keep everything safe while you move.