Should I use stretch wrap when moving?

Stretch wrap is one of the most versatile and helpful packing materials that you can use when you move. So if you want the short answer for your question, the answer is yes, you should absolutely use stretch wrap when moving. Before you go out and buy a roll of it though, there are a few things that you should know about stretch wrap and how to use it properly.

For example, many people often confuse stretch wrap with shrink wrap, however these are two very different products. Shrink wrap is applied by professionals and shrinks when heated with a hot air gun, thus becoming tighter and containing the objects within. Stretch wrap, on the other hand, is simply plastic wrap that stretches to fit around the objects that are being wrapped, and you'll most often find it wrapped around pallets of product at your local supermarket.

Stretch wrap can be used for a bunch of different scenarios when moving, such as keeping loose items bundled together on the truck, securing power cords or attachments to appliances, wrapping couches to keep them from getting dirty during the move, wrapping furniture to keep the moving pads in place and adding an extra protective coating, and to keep furniture drawers and doors closed and secured.

In the case of the latter situation, it's best to apply a layer of packing paper over the piece of furniture before wrapping it in stretch wrap. That's because most movers recommend that you do not apply stretch wrap directly to wood surfaces because moisture can become trapped between the wood and the stretch wrap and cause damage. So if you are using it to wrap a wooden desk or set of wooden drawers, be careful with how you apply the stretch wrap.

If you're interested in learning more about packing materials and about the moving and relocation process, visit our moving guides page to read up and answer all of your pertinent moving questions.

Also, if you are looking for moving labor or wish to obtain some free moving estimates for your upcoming move.