At first, buying cardboard boxes for a house move seems simple. But once you consider sizes, box strength, and extra packing materials, it gets more complicated. A low price per box might look good, but it doesn't show the real cost of your whole order.
Moving box kits are a convenient way to start. If you buy boxes and supplies separately, you have more control over how many you get and what types. The best option depends on what you own, what you still need, and the total cost at checkout.
Here’s how you can compare both options before you order your moving boxes.
What Is Included in a Moving Box Kit?
A moving box kit groups selected boxes and packing supplies into one purchase. Contents vary, so read the product list rather than assuming every pack includes the same materials.
Packing Solution’s house moving packs include options for different home sizes, alongside student and other specialist packs. Bedroom labels help you start browsing, but they cannot describe every household’s belongings.
For example, the three-bedroom moving pack currently lists:
- Two extra-large double-walled cardboard boxes.
- Sixteen medium double-walled boxes.
- Two medium single-walled boxes.
- One roll of bubble wrap measuring 500 mm × 10 m.
- Two rolls of 48 mm strong box tape.
This set gives you a basic starting point. You might still need more cushioning or special boxes, depending on your belongings.
Start with Your Belongings, Not Your Bedroom Count
Two three-bedroom homes can require very different packing orders. One household might have a small book collection and minimal kitchenware; another might have full shelves, delicate ornaments, and several cupboards of spare bedding.
Before you compare moving box kits, walk through every room and list what you need to pack. Include the loft, garage, shed, and anything already in storage.
Separate dense belongings from lightweight, bulky items. Also identify fragile pieces that need wrapping and anything requiring a specialist container.
Our guide to how many cardboard boxes you really need to move can help you organize that estimate. Once you have a rough list, compare it with the pack contents and identify gaps.
Compare the Same Products and Quantities
A fair comparison starts with matching items. Twenty single wall boxes are not equivalent to a mixed selection containing double wall packing boxes, bubble wrap and tape.
Look at the sizes and descriptions. The word 'medium' can mean different things, even in the same range. If you can, compare the product codes too.
For a practical example, the three-bedroom pack is listed at £64.99. Buying its contents separately at the displayed individual-box prices produces this comparison:
|
Item |
Quantity |
Separate price |
Subtotal |
|
Extra-large double walled boxes |
2 |
£5.40 each |
£10.80 |
|
Medium double walled boxes |
16 |
£2.95 each |
£47.20 |
|
Medium single walled boxes |
2 |
£1.95 each |
£3.90 |
|
Bubble wrap, 500 mm × 10 m |
1 roll |
£5.95 |
£5.95 |
|
Strong box tape, 48 mm |
2-roll pack |
£4.95 |
£4.95 |
|
Separate basket total |
£72.80 |
Against that basket, the £64.99 moving pack costs £7.81 less.
Prices checked on 30 September 2026, including VAT and excluding delivery. Check current prices and availability before ordering.
Discounted Box Packs Can Change the Result
Individual-box prices are only one way to buy separately. Packs of identical boxes may offer different unit prices, so include those options in your comparison.
Using the listed medium double wall ten-pack at £22.45, five-pack at £13.75 and one individual box at £2.95 gives you sixteen medium boxes for £39.15.
Keeping the other items unchanged brings the separate basket to £64.75 before delivery. In this example, that is 24p below the moving kit price.
This small difference shows why a blanket statement that kits are always cheaper would be misleading. The kit simplifies selection, while a carefully assembled basket may offer comparable value. Compare the final checkout totals, including any offers, before deciding.
When a Moving Kit Makes Sense
A kit is helpful if what’s inside matches your packing list and you want to make fewer decisions.
It may suit someone preparing for a whole-house move who needs boxes, tape and cushioning together. You can review one product list, choose a suitable pack and then add only the extras your belongings require.
Convenience matters, especially if you are packing while juggling work and family. Still, check how much of the kit you will really use. A discounted bundle isn't as good if you don't need some of the items.
When Buying Separately Is Better
Buying separately works well when you already have suitable supplies or need an unusual mix of boxes.
For example, you might have plenty of tape but need additional book boxes. Alternatively, you may be moving mainly bedding and clothes, with relatively few heavier objects.
Choosing individual products lets you direct your budget towards those requirements. It also makes sense for a partial move or a small storage project.
Use our guide to UK moving box sizes to compare dimensions, and read how to choose the right boxes for moving house before selecting your mix.
Include Cushioning, Tape and Delivery
Your full order should include more than just cardboard boxes. Remember to count protective materials, tape, and any special supplies you need to finish packing.
Check what each roll contains. Bubble wrap width and length affect how much material you receive, while a small amount of cushioning may be insufficient for a large collection of fragile belongings.
Our comparison of bubble wrap vs packing paper for house moving explains how to assess those materials.
Then check delivery charges, arrival estimates, and any applicable order thresholds. If you discover missing supplies halfway through packing, a second order may change the overall cost.
Choose the Basket That Fits Your Move
Before you check out, make sure your order includes the right number, sizes, and types of boxes, plus all the protective materials you need. Remove anything extra and check the final price, including delivery.
Packing technique matters too. Our advice on keeping cardboard boxes from falling apart during a move offers further guidance on preparing your boxes.
Ready to organize your supplies? Compare Packing Solution’s moving packs with the packing boxes range. Choose a kit, a separate basket, or a kit with selected extras based on what your move actually needs.
