When preparing for a move, bubble wrap is clearly one of the most essential items, and it's fun to pop too! It provides excellent protection for all of your fragile stuff during transit. This article acts as a guide for everything related to bubble wrap from purchasing bubble wrap, comparing different suppliers, to general practical tips on choosing the right bubble wrap for your move - yes there are different types of bubble wrap.
Bubble wrap comes in various sizes and grades, each suited to different packaging requirements. The small bubbles (around 10mm in diameter) are perfect for wrapping smaller items like dishes and glassware, while the larger bubbles (around 20mm) are better for bigger items that need more cushioning, such as moving a washing machine - and better for popping more importantly.
Eco-friendly options are also available. These are made from recycled materials and/or designed to be biodegradable. These types of bubble wrap are not only better for the environment but can be just as effective as traditional bubble wrap, and are increasingly becoming more affordable. So it's a win on all fronts as we aim to reduce our plastic use.
Brick-and-mortar shops remain a popular choice for those who prefer to see and feel the bubble wrap before buying. Many supermarkets, office supply stores, and DIY stores stock bubble wrap in various sizes. Many are now stocking eco-friendly options too as customer tastes shift. Some popular options include:
In an increasingly digital age, online retailers provide convenience and accessibility for purchasing bubble wrap without leaving your home. Here are some online platforms, most you'll know already:
Specialty packing stores focus on providing dedicated packing materials. While they may not be as ubiquitous as supermarkets or online retailers, they often offer a wide selection of bubble wrap and other packing essentials. There are fewer and fewer of these types of stores but as specialists, they would be the best place to if you have any specific questions or have a niche requirement. Some examples include:
To help you make an informed decision, see prices and options below for purchasing bubble wrap by the metre from different retailers:

As you can see, each retailer offers bubble wrap at different price points and quantities, so it's essential to consider your budget and packing needs when deciding.
Consider the size of the items you're packing and the total volume of items to determine how much bubble wrap you need. Buying rolls of bubble wrap can be more cost-effective for larger moves, for example, a commercial move, or if you have an ongoing need for bubble wrap, perhaps you own a business that requires item packaging regularly.
Secure bubble wrap with packing tape to ensure it stays in place. This prevents movement inside the box, which can cause damage.
Use multiple layers of bubble wrap for items that are particularly fragile or valuable to provide extra cushioning and protection
Ensure all the gaps in the boxes are filled with additional cushioning materials like crumpled paper. This helps to stop single items moving around therefore providing even more protection during the move.
Choosing the right bubble wrap and employing the best packing techniques can significantly ease the stress of moving. By following these tips and considering your options carefully, you can ensure that your belongings arrive at their new home safe and sound.
A: Small bubble wrap is best for china and glassware as it provides tighter protection around delicate items.
Yes, bubble wrap can be reused if it's not heavily damaged. This is not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly. Biodegradable bubble wrap may degrade and weaken over time but will likely be suitable for many uses.
A: Many online retailers and speciality packing suppliers offer biodegradable options. Be sure to check product descriptions for environmental credentials.
A: Traditional bubble wrap and even eco-friendly bubble wrap are not easily recyclable. However, the eco-friendly alternatives are themselves made from recycled material or sustainable organic matter.
A: This depends on the number and size of items you're packing. It's a good idea to estimate your packing needs based on the size and fragility of your belongings.
A: Yes, bubble wrap is versatile and can be used to protect a variety of items during transit, including electronics, glassware, and artwork.
A: The best bubble wrap for moving is typically one with medium to large bubbles, as it offers better cushioning for a wide range of items, from fragile to bulky.
A: Yes, many post offices sell bubble wrap along with other packaging supplies.
A: Some larger supermarkets do sell bubble wrap as part of their home or office supplies section, especially those with a stationary aisle.
Porta Delivery use a crowdsourced driver model to help you with your moves and keep all of your bubble-wrapped items safe. Porta has three main benefits vs other companies:
1.) Lowest prices due to the crowdsourced model; drivers will have other items in their van, lowering the cost per item
2.) Neutral emissions as drivers are making the journey anyway
3.) Fast and easy to use platform
Why not get an instant price today!