Running out of packing materials mid-move is frustrating. Having too much is wasteful and expensive. Here's exactly what you need to pack efficiently without waste.

Boxes (The Foundation)

Small Boxes (30x20x15cm): For heavy items (books, dishes, electronics). Pack heavier items here—they're less likely to burst.

  • Quantity: ~15-20 for a 2-bedroom home
  • Cost: ~KES 100-150 per box

Medium Boxes (45x25x25cm): Versatile all-purpose boxes for most items.

  • Quantity: ~30-40 boxes
  • Cost: ~KES 150-200 per box

Large Boxes (60x40x40cm): For light, bulky items (pillows, blankets, clothing).

  • Quantity: ~10-15 boxes
  • Cost: ~KES 250-350 per box

Flat Boxes: For electronics, art, and items that don't fit standard boxes.

  • Quantity: ~5-10
  • Cost: ~KES 300-500 each
Packing supplies organized

Packing Materials

Packing Tape: 2-3 rolls per 10 boxes.

  • Buy quality tape (not cheap stuff that unravels)
  • Cost: ~KES 200-400 per roll

Bubble Wrap: Essential for fragile items. One roll (125cm x 50m) covers multiple boxes.

  • Quantity: 2-3 rolls for a typical household
  • Cost: ~KES 800-1,200 per roll

Packing Paper/Kraft Paper: Wraps around items to prevent shifting.

  • Quantity: ~10 kg for a household move
  • Cost: ~KES 800-1,500

Foam Sheets: Superior to bubble wrap for delicate items (dishes, artwork).

  • Quantity: As needed for fragile items
  • Cost: ~KES 300-600 per sheet

Packing Peanuts (Loose Fill): Fills empty space in boxes, prevents items from shifting.

  • Quantity: ~20-30 liters
  • Cost: ~KES 1,500-2,500

Supplies for Labeling and Organization

  • Permanent Markers: 3-5 markers in different colors (one color per room)
  • Cost: ~KES 50-100 each
  • Box Labels/Stickers: Pre-printed or write-your-own
  • Cost: ~KES 500-1,000 per pack
  • Masking Tape: For labeling without marker (easier to remove)
  • Cost: ~KES 200-300

Tools and Miscellaneous

  • Box Cutter: For efficient unpacking (KES 300-500)
  • Dolly/Hand Truck: Makes moving heavy boxes easier (rent for KES 500-1,000/day)
  • Moving Straps: Secure furniture and prevent sliding (KES 1,000-2,000)
  • Furniture Pads/Blankets: Protect furniture and floors (KES 2,000-4,000)
  • Ziplock Bags: Assorted sizes for small items and hardware (KES 500-1,000)
  • Marker for Labeling Hardware: Keep bolts and screws organized (essential for furniture reassembly)

Total Supply Budget

For a typical 2-3 bedroom home:

  • Boxes: ~KES 8,000-12,000
  • Packing materials: ~KES 3,000-5,000
  • Labels and markers: ~KES 1,000-2,000
  • Tools and miscellaneous: ~KES 2,000-4,000
  • Total: ~KES 14,000-23,000

Pro Tips

  • Many grocery and retail stores will give you free boxes if you ask
  • Newspaper can substitute for bubble wrap (good for non-fragile items)
  • Use towels, clothes, and blankets as padding—saves on materials
  • Buy supplies gradually to spread costs

Having the right supplies makes packing faster, safer, and less stressful. Invest in quality materials—damaged items cost far more than the supplies that would have protected them.