Must-Have Items for a Military Family Full DITY Move

Before we get started if you’re a military family and are unsure if a DITY move is right for you, read THIS post and then come back this way once you’re sure a DITY is the right fit for you. Now, if you’re here because you’re sure this is what’s best for your crew…welcome! Mallory is a pro when it comes to DITY moves and we are so grateful to have her wisdom here to share with you!

Below you’ll find the must-have items she recommends for a successful full DITY. Her blog is a treasure chest of DITY wisdom, so if you’re confused about how to use any of these items, make sure you head over there to explore because she has the answers waiting for you. Let’s get started…

You don’t have to buy all of your supplies at once!

Prepare to pack by grabbing the basics: A few mirror boxes (great for wall hangings and wall decor), some different-sized boxes (S, M, L, XL) tape, shrink wrap, bubble wrap, packing paper, and labels. As you start packing, you will have a better idea of what size boxes you need for the rest of your home.  

To bundle or not to bundle? 

I prefer to purchase items individually from a local store so unused items can be easily returned. U-Haul allows returns on used items, including boxes.  Purchasing bundle packages online may leave you with extra supplies you are unable to return. For example, you may start packing and realize that you need more large boxes but your bundle came with more small boxes. You will have to spend more money to purchase the large boxes you need instead of returning/exchanging unused boxes for different sizes. 

My favorite packing supplies:

I know there are a lot of different types of packing supplies out there, but my goal is to help you do it effectively and inexpensively in order to stay on budget and receive a profit (if you’re doing a military move). I usually purchase my supplies at U-Haul because they have the lowest prices, the best quality, and the best selection! 

• Boxes AND tubs/totes! Don’t forget box scraps for the tops of furniture and/or glass!

• Packing tape

• Packing paper or wrapping paper

• Grocery bags (paper and plastic)

• Bubble wrap

• Mattress and box spring plastic covers

• TV box – unless you have the original one it came in!

• Mirror/picture boxes – they are great for mirrors AND hanging wall decor.

• Rope to tie down boxes inside the trailer

• Labels – the sticker kind, not the tape!

• Lock for moving truck – attach lock keys to your car keys and another inside your DITY binder so they don’t get lost-been there, done that! If you’re using U-Pack you will need a longer lock.

• Movers stretch plastic wrap – AKA your new best friend!

• Plastic couch covers 

• Trash bags and Ziploc bags – large and small.

• Furniture pads – you can rent a pack from U-Haul (around $10 a dozen) OR use old sheets/blankets you don’t mind getting dirty. If you know you will be moving several years in a row, consider investing in furniture pads to cut down on moving costs. Here are a few options: Heavy Duty Furniture Pads Amazon , Harbor Freight Moving Blankets (different sizes and prices available), and Textile Moving Blankets (these are similar to U-Haul furniture pads)

• Plastic furniture covers – in case it rains! Most moving companies won’t provide them and you can easily slide them on and off when loading and unloading.

• The Shoulder Dolly  – it’s been one of our best investments! It is perfect for those who decide to not use movers and for staging your furniture and boxes for packing and loading.

• Dolly – if you decide not to use movers rent a dolly from a moving store! 

Save all your receipts!

Depending on where you purchase, if you don’t use everything (including boxes) you can return them! The first DITY you will spend more on supplies but the more you move and the more supplies you save the less you spend on future moves. If you’re doing a military move, you also need to save your packing supplies receipts to turn into the transportation and finance office. 

Will I be reimbursed for my packing supplies? 

Great question! Check out this post: Will I be Reimbursed for my Packing Supplies?

You have your supplies, now what?

It’s time to start packing! Print off the free Weekly Packing Plan to get you started. Check out Packing Tips for several tips and the How to Pack series to walk you through each room in detail along with different items in your home. 

How to Save on Supplies:

Supplies can be expensive so start gathering them as soon as possible! Grab boxes and/or supplies your friends and neighbors are throwing out. Also, check out your local department stores or grocery stores for boxes during their stocking hours. Use items you already have in your home such as grocery sacks, newspapers, wrapping paper, sheets, blankets, paper bags, linens, curtains, throw pillows, throw blankets, and even clothes. All these things can be used as packing supplies! Use them to wrap delicate or breakable items, use them as fillers, or for some added cushion.

Meet Mallory

I am an active duty Army wife of 13 years, married to my high school sweetheart, and we have 3 precious kids. I have a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy but I am now embracing my role as a stay at home mama. We are originally from Texas and are currently stationed at Fort Carson in Colorado Springs. This summer we completed our 11th PCS and moved into our 13th home in 13 years…and we have done a full DITY every single time! Helping military families navigate DITY moves and all that comes with it has become a passion of mine. When I’m not packing up my house, I also love working out, exploring new places, and spending time with my family and friends.

To see more DITY tips for the DITY queen herself, be sure to check out Mallory’s website HERE and her Instagram HERE.

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