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Packing Materials Guide for UK Moves

Eco-Friendly Options

For those aiming for a more sustainable relocation, many materials can be reused or recycled. On request, eco-packing strategies may include:

Let your coordinator know if you’d like a lower-impact packing plan.

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Why Proper Packing Really Matters

Packing for an international move is about more than just boxes it’s about preparing your belongings for a long journey, varied climates, and multiple stages of handling. Materials need to hold up under pressure, moisture, and shifting.
Whether you’re moving a few essentials or a full home, professional-grade packing reduces the risk of breakage, customs delays, and insurance issues.

Common Materials Used for International Moves

For most UK-bound relocations, here are the packing materials typically used:

  • Double-walled cardboard boxes – Stronger for stacking and transit
  • Bubble wrap – Cushioning for fragile or sensitive items
  • Foam sheets – Ideal for electronics, ceramics, and valuables
  • Packing paper – Clean, ink-free for dishes, glasses, and clothing
  • Stretch film – Secures furniture and grouped items
  • Corrugated roll – Extra protection for paintings, mirrors, furniture
  • Heavy-duty tape – High-adhesion sealing
  • Plastic mattress bags – Moisture-resistant covers for beds and sofas
  • Custom wooden crates – Used for large electronics or fragile, irregular items

These materials are selected based on destination, volume, and transport type.

How Packing Is Tailored Room by Room

Each part of your home requires different care. Materials are usually assigned as follows:

  • Kitchen: Dividers and padded cartons for dishes, glassware, and appliances
  • Kensington: elegant and family-friendly
  • Bedrooms: Mattress covers, wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes
  • Garage/Outdoor: Extra reinforcement for tools, sports gear, bikes

Packing for Sea Freight to the UK

Sea shipments involve moisture, container stacking, and long durations in transit. That’s why packing often includes:

  • Moisture-resistant wraps for upholstery and mattresses
  • Edge guards and corner protectors on larger furniture
  • Breathable films that prevent mould or mildew buildup
  • Clear room-by-room labelling to streamline customs clearance
  • Reinforced cartons for heavy or load-bearing items

This helps ensure that everything arrives safe, dry, and ready for setup.

What UK Customs Looks for in Packed Goods

stoms officers often inspect packaging when shipments arrive. Proper materials and clear labelling can help avoid delays. Here’s what usually matters most:

  • Itemised inventories that match contents and packing lists
  • Non-organic materials no food containers, newspaper, or reused wraps
  • Clearly marked boxes by room and category
  • Accessible crates for electronics, valuables, or restricted goods

Using professional materials supports smoother clearance and insurance eligibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

No most relocations include materials as part of the packing service. Extra cartons can usually be arranged if you want to start early.

Work Process

How It Works Just 4 Simple Steps

Moving with Acorn Movers is easy, efficient, and stress-free. Here’s how we make it happen:

Get A Free Quote

Receive a free quotation and schedule a packing date & time that works for you.

Expert Packing

Our professional team arrives and carefully packs your belongings using high-quality materials.

Lock and Loaded

We carefully load your items onto your chosen freight vehicle using modern equipment and proven techniques to ensure nothing gets damaged.

Final Delivery in UK

Your goods are delivered safely and on time; right where you need them, at your English address.

Let’s Pack It Right From the Start

From crates to corner guards, international packing is designed to keep your belongings secure.

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