Why Getting the Right Moving Supplies Matters
Moving to a new home or office in Hong Kong is a big deal. Whether you are shifting across the street in Wan Chai or relocating from Hong Kong to another country entirely, packing your belongings properly is one of the most important steps in the whole moving process.
The truth is, a lot of people underestimate how much packing material they need, or they buy the wrong type. This leads to damaged furniture, broken dishes, and a lot of stress on moving day. On the other hand, buying too much means wasted money and leftover materials cluttering your new place.
Getting the right moving supplies in Hong Kong — in the right quantities and at the right price — can make the entire experience smoother, cheaper, and much less stressful.
In this guide, we will walk you through exactly what supplies you need, what they cost, where to buy them in Hong Kong, and some practical tips to help you pack like a pro.
Essential Moving Supplies You Will Need
Before you start shopping, it helps to know what you are actually looking for. Below is a breakdown of the most important moving supplies for any home or office move in Hong Kong.
1. Moving Boxes (Cardboard Boxes)
These are the backbone of any move. Cardboard boxes come in different sizes, and each size serves a different purpose:
- Small boxes – Best for heavy items like books, canned food, tools, and kitchen appliances
- Medium boxes – Good for everyday items like kitchenware, clothing, and toys
- Large boxes – Ideal for lighter but bulky items like pillows, blankets, lampshades, and towels
- Extra-large boxes – Suitable for large light items such as duvets or stuffed toys
- Wardrobe boxes – These have a hanging rail inside and are perfect for clothes on hangers
- Dish packs / dish boxes – Specially reinforced boxes designed for plates, glasses, and fragile kitchenware
- TV boxes – Specifically designed to protect flat-screen televisions during transit
2. Packing Tape
Do not underestimate how much tape you will use. Heavy-duty packing tape is essential to seal boxes securely. You will also want a tape dispenser/gun to make the job faster and easier.
Look for tape that is:
- At least 48mm wide
- Strong and durable
- Clear or brown (either works fine)
3. Bubble Wrap
Bubble wrap is a must for protecting fragile items. Use it around glassware, ceramics, picture frames, mirrors, and electronics. In Hong Kong’s humid climate, it also provides an extra layer of protection against moisture during storage or transit.
4. Packing Paper / Newsprint
Plain packing paper or newsprint is great for wrapping dishes, filling empty spaces in boxes, and protecting surfaces. It is cheaper than bubble wrap and works well for items that are not super fragile. Avoid using printed newspaper directly on items as the ink can stain.
5. Foam Packing Peanuts / Foam Sheets
Foam peanuts fill empty spaces in boxes to prevent items from shifting during the move. Foam sheets work similarly to bubble wrap and are great for wrapping delicate items individually.
6. Stretch Wrap / Cling Wrap
Stretch wrap (also called shrink wrap or cling film) is used to:
- Wrap furniture to protect it from scratches and dust
- Bundle drawers and cabinet doors so they do not swing open
- Keep items like remote controls and smaller accessories together
7. Furniture Pads / Moving Blankets
These thick, padded blankets are placed over furniture to prevent scratches and dents during loading and transport. If you are hiring a moving company, they often bring their own, but it is good to know about them.
8. Mattress Bags / Mattress Covers
Hong Kong is humid. Protecting your mattress with a plastic mattress bag during the move keeps it clean and dry. They are especially important if your mattress will be in storage even briefly.
9. Labels and Markers
You need a way to identify what is in each box, especially which room it belongs to. Use:
- Large permanent markers
- Colour-coded labels or stickers
- Pre-printed “Fragile” labels for delicate boxes
10. Box Cutters / Utility Knives
These make unpacking much faster and safer than using scissors or your hands to rip open boxes.
11. Rope and Straps
Used to secure items inside the moving truck so they do not shift or topple during transit.
12. Ziplock Bags and Small Bags
Great for keeping screws, bolts, and small parts together when disassembling furniture. Tape the bag directly to the furniture piece so nothing gets lost.
How Many Supplies Do You Actually Need?
The number of moving supplies you need depends on:
- The size of your home (number of rooms)
- How much stuff you have
- Whether you are packing everything yourself or hiring professional packers
Here is a rough guide for different home sizes in Hong Kong:
| Home Size | Boxes Needed | Tape Rolls | Bubble Wrap | Packing Paper |
| Studio / 1-Room | 10–20 boxes | 3–5 rolls | 1 small roll | 1 pack |
| 1–2 Bedroom Flat | 25–50 boxes | 6–10 rolls | 2–3 rolls | 2–3 packs |
| 3 Bedroom Flat | 50–80 boxes | 10–15 rolls | 4–6 rolls | 4–5 packs |
| Large House / Villa | 80–150+ boxes | 15–25 rolls | 6–10 rolls | 6–10 packs |
These are estimates. It is always better to buy a little more than you think you need. Unused boxes can often be returned, sold, or given away.
Cost of Moving Supplies in Hong Kong
Here is what you can typically expect to pay for common moving supplies in Hong Kong:
Cardboard Boxes
| Box Type | Price Range (HKD) |
| Small box (per piece) | HK$5 – HK$15 |
| Medium box (per piece) | HK$10 – HK$25 |
| Large box (per piece) | HK$15 – HK$40 |
| Wardrobe box (per piece) | HK$50 – HK$120 |
| Dish/TV box (per piece) | HK$40 – HK$100 |
Other Packing Materials
| Item | Price Range (HKD) |
| Packing tape (per roll) | HK$10 – HK$30 |
| Tape gun/dispenser | HK$20 – HK$80 |
| Bubble wrap (per roll) | HK$50 – HK$200 |
| Packing paper (per pack) | HK$30 – HK$80 |
| Stretch wrap (per roll) | HK$30 – HK$100 |
| Foam packing peanuts (per bag) | HK$50 – HK$150 |
| Moving blankets (per piece) | HK$80 – HK$200 |
| Mattress cover/bag | HK$30 – HK$100 |
| Marker pens (pack) | HK$15 – HK$40 |
| Labels/stickers | HK$10 – HK$30 |
Total Estimated Cost for a 2-Bedroom Flat
If you are packing a 2-bedroom flat yourself, you might spend roughly:
- Budget option: HK$500 – HK$800
- Mid-range option: HK$800 – HK$1,500
- Premium/extra protection: HK$1,500 – HK$2,500+
Keep in mind that professional movers like Best Movers HK often include basic packing materials as part of their service packages, which can save you both time and money.
Where to Buy Moving Supplies in Hong Kong
There are quite a few options when it comes to buying moving supplies in Hong Kong. Here is a breakdown of the most convenient places:
1. Carton Box Shops (紙箱店)
These are small specialist shops that sell cardboard boxes and basic packing supplies. You can find them in industrial areas and near wet markets throughout Hong Kong. They tend to offer the best prices for cardboard boxes, especially if you buy in bulk.
Good areas to look:
- Kwun Tong and San Po Kong (Kowloon)
- Lai Chi Kok
- Cheung Sha Wan
- Sheung Wan and Kennedy Town (Hong Kong Island)
2. IKEA Hong Kong
IKEA sells cardboard moving boxes, storage bags, and various organising products that double as useful moving supplies. Their flat-pack system also makes it easy to transport. IKEA has stores in:
- Causeway Bay, Hong Kong Island
- Kowloon Bay, Kowloon
3. Daiso / Don Don Donki
These Japanese variety stores have become popular throughout Hong Kong. They sell affordable packing tape, markers, small organisers, ziplock bags, and other handy moving accessories. While they may not stock large cardboard boxes, they are great for all the smaller items on your packing list.
Don Don Donki (also known as DONKI) has multiple stores across Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, and also stocks some packing materials.
4. Pricerite and AEON
These large retail stores in Hong Kong carry a range of home and storage products. You can find boxes, bubble wrap, and storage solutions here.
5. Online Shopping – Taobao, HKTVmall, Amazon.co.jp / Amazon.com
Buying moving supplies online is becoming increasingly popular in Hong Kong for good reason:
- HKTVmall – Hong Kong’s largest online retailer. You can search for packing supplies, boxes, and bubble wrap with convenient home delivery.
- Taobao – Extremely affordable but may take longer to arrive. Order well in advance.
- Lazada HK – Another good online marketplace with fast local delivery.
- Carousell HK – Good for buying second-hand boxes cheaply or even for free.
6. Your Moving Company
One of the easiest options is simply to ask your moving company. Best Movers HK can supply packing materials and professionally pack your belongings for you. This is especially helpful for fragile items, antiques, or electronics.
Free or Low-Cost Moving Supplies in Hong Kong
Moving can be expensive, especially in Hong Kong where housing costs are already high. Here are some ways to get moving supplies without spending too much:
Ask Supermarkets and Convenience Stores
Supermarkets like PARKnSHOP, Wellcome, and City Super regularly receive large deliveries in sturdy cardboard boxes. Ask the staff if you can take some away — most of the time, they are happy to give them away rather than recycling them.
Check Carousell and Facebook Marketplace
Many people who have recently moved post their leftover boxes and packing materials for free or at very low cost. Search for “moving boxes Hong Kong free” or “cardboard boxes HK” on these platforms.
Ask Friends and Family
If someone you know has recently moved, they likely have a stack of boxes sitting in their new flat that they would love to get rid of.
Use What You Already Have
Before buying packing supplies, look around your home for things that already serve a packing purpose:
- Suitcases and duffel bags for clothing and soft items
- Laundry baskets for towels and bedding
- Drawers (remove them from the dresser and pack them as-is)
- Cloth bags, tote bags, and reusable shopping bags
- Pillows and blankets to cushion fragile items inside boxes
Tips for Packing Smarter and Saving Money
Even with the right supplies, packing efficiently takes a bit of strategy. Here are some practical tips:
Start Early
Do not leave packing to the last minute. Start packing rooms and items you use least — like guest rooms, storage cupboards, and seasonal items — at least 2 to 3 weeks before your move date.
Label Every Box
Write the contents AND the destination room on every box. This saves enormous time and effort when unpacking. Use colour-coded labels for each room to make it even faster.
- Red – Kitchen
- Blue – Bedroom
- Green – Living Room
- Yellow – Bathroom
Pack Heavy Items in Small Boxes
This is a rule professional movers follow: heavy things like books, files, and tools go in small boxes. Big boxes should only hold light items. This protects your back and prevents boxes from breaking.
Double-Tape the Bottom of Every Box
Always apply tape in a cross pattern (one strip down the middle, one across) on the bottom of every box. This dramatically reduces the chance of the box collapsing under weight.
Take Photos Before You Disassemble
Before taking apart any furniture, shelving, or electronics, take a photo. This makes reassembly at your new home much easier.
Keep an “Open First” Box
Pack a separate box (or bag) with items you will need immediately upon arrival — things like toilet paper, phone chargers, a change of clothes, snacks, cleaning supplies, and important documents. Label it clearly and keep it aside so it is the last thing loaded and the first thing unloaded.
Disassemble Furniture Where Possible
Flat-pack furniture and large pieces are much easier to move when broken down. Keep all screws, bolts, and small parts in labelled ziplock bags.
Moving Locally vs. Moving Internationally: Different Packing Needs
The supplies you need can vary quite a bit depending on whether you are moving within Hong Kong or relocating to another country.
Local Moving in Hong Kong
For local moves in Hong Kong, the transport distance is short, and the move is usually completed in a single day. This means:
- Standard cardboard boxes are perfectly fine
- Stretch wrap and furniture blankets are still important
- You generally do not need waterproofing or heavy-duty export-grade materials
International Moving from Hong Kong
For international moves, your belongings may spend weeks at sea inside a shipping container. This changes the packing requirements significantly:
- Export-grade double-walled cardboard boxes are recommended
- Heavy-duty bubble wrap for all fragile items
- Moisture-absorbing silica gel packets to protect against humidity inside containers
- Wooden crating may be required for valuable, antique, or oversized items
- All boxes should be clearly labelled with destination address and customs information
If you are shipping belongings overseas, it is strongly recommended to work with an experienced international moving company. Best Movers HK handles international relocations regularly and can advise you on exactly what packing standards are required for your destination country.
How Best Movers HK Can Help You Move With Ease ?
If you are planning a move in or out of Hong Kong, Best Movers HK is one of the most trusted names in the business. Established in 2012 by Mr. Singh, the company has built its reputation on one simple principle: quality service and genuine care for every customer.
What makes Best Movers HK stand out is that the majority of their business comes from referrals — meaning real customers are so happy with the service that they tell their friends and family. That says a lot.
Here is a look at the full range of services they offer:
Local Moving
Moving within Hong Kong? Best Movers HK handles local residential and commercial moves with experienced teams who know the city well — including how to navigate narrow stairwells, tight lifts, and busy streets.
International Moving
Relocating abroad? Best Movers HK’s international moving service covers sea freight, air freight, and full door-to-door relocation services. Their team will help you understand customs requirements, documentation, and packing standards for international shipments.
Storage Services
Not ready to move everything into your new place right away? Best Movers HK offers secure storage services for both short-term and long-term needs. This is especially helpful during transitional periods, renovations, or if you are downsizing.
Disposal Services
Moving is the perfect time to declutter. If you have old furniture, appliances, or items you no longer need, Best Movers HK’s disposal service can help you get rid of them responsibly without the hassle of arranging it yourself.
Professional Packing
If the thought of packing an entire flat by yourself feels overwhelming, Best Movers HK can handle it. Their experienced team will bring the right supplies, pack everything securely, and make sure fragile items are properly protected. It takes a huge amount of stress off your plate.
💬 Ready to get started? Visit bestmovershk.com or contact the team directly to get a free survey and moving quote. Their surveyors will come to your home at a time that is convenient for you, assess exactly what needs to be moved, and give you an accurate, transparent estimate.
Final Thoughts
Getting the right moving supplies in Hong Kong is not complicated, but it does require a bit of planning. The key is to start early, make a proper list, buy the right types and quantities of materials, and not leave everything to the last minute.
Here is a quick summary of what we covered:
- Know what you need – Boxes, tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, stretch wrap, labels, and more
- Estimate quantities carefully – Use the rough guide based on your home size
- Budget wisely – Costs range from HK$500 to HK$2,500+ depending on home size and quality of materials
- Shop smart – Carton box shops, IKEA, online platforms like HKTVmall, and even free options on Carousell
- Pack strategically – Heavy items in small boxes, label everything, double-tape the bottom
- Know your move type – Local moves and international moves have different packing needs
- Consider professional help – A trusted moving company like Best Movers HK can supply materials and handle packing for you
Whether you are moving into your first flat, upgrading to a bigger home, downsizing after the kids move out, or relocating your business, having the right supplies and the right team on your side makes all the difference.
Best Movers HK has been helping people move in Hong Kong since 2012. With a team that genuinely cares about making your move smooth, affordable, and stress-free, they are the kind of company you can trust — and recommend to others.
Need help with your move?
Get in touch with the team at Best Movers HK today for a free home survey and no-obligation quote. Whether it is a local move, international relocation, storage, or disposal — they have got you covered.
Have questions about moving supplies or packing tips? Drop them in the comments below — we would love to help!