Best Moving Supplies Stores in Ottawa: Your Ultimate Guide

Moving is often cited as one of life’s most stressful events especially when you are planning a move to Ottawa. Between coordinating timelines, sorting belongings, and managing a dozen other details, there’s one question that keeps popping up: “Where on earth do I get all these boxes and packing materials?” Between changing your address and hauling furniture, the “box hunt” shouldn’t be another headache.

If you’ve been Googling “moving supplies Ottawa” or “where to buy moving boxes,” you’ve likely noticed something confusing, some results show storage companies, others show moving companies, and still others point to specialty supply stores. Which one should you choose? Do you need to contact multiple places? And what’s the actual difference between them?

Take a deep breath. You’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about finding the best moving supplies stores in Ottawa, help you understand your options, and show you exactly where to go based on your specific situation. Whether you’re tackling a DIY move vs professional movers for a long-distance relocation, we’ve researched the best moving supplies stores in Ottawa to ensure your belongings stay safe from point A to point B.

What Moving and Packing Supplies in Ottawa Do You Actually Need?

If you are new to the moving process, it’s easy to over-buy or under-buy. To get started, here is a breakdown of the essential moving and storage supplies every move requires to stay organized and efficient:

Moving boxes in various sizes:

You’ll need a mix. Small boxes are perfect for heavy items like books and dishes. Medium boxes work well for kitchen items, toys, and bathroom supplies. Large boxes are ideal for lightweight but bulky items like bedding, pillows, and lampshades. Don’t forget wardrobe moving boxes if you have clothes you want to keep on hangers, they’re game-changers for keeping dress clothes wrinkle-free.

Packing tape and dispensers:

This isn’t the time to cheap out. Having the right moving and packing supplies in Ottawa ensures your items survive the trip. Get proper packing tape not regular scotch tape and invest in at least one tape gun dispenser. Cheap tape often peels off in humid weather conditions. Your hands will thank you after box number 20. Plan on 2-3 rolls of tape per 10-15 boxes.

Bubble wrap and packing paper:

For protecting fragile items. Packing paper is more economical for general cushioning, while bubble wrap is essential for glassware, dishes, electronics, and anything you’d be devastated to see broken.

Stretch wrap or plastic wrap:

This is that industrial-strength plastic wrap that keeps drawers closed, protects upholstered furniture, and bundles awkwardly shaped items. It’s incredibly versatile and often overlooked by first-time movers.

Furniture blankets and pads:

Essential for protecting furniture surfaces from scratches and stains during the move. Even if you’re hiring professional movers, having a few extra never hurts.

Permanent markers and labels:

For marking boxes with contents and destination rooms. The more detail you include, the easier unpacking becomes. Consider color-coding by room for extra organization.

Mattress bags and furniture covers:

Don’t skip these. Mattresses are expensive, and you don’t want dirt, moisture, or damage during the move. Get mattress and furniture covers bags sized for your mattresses.

Specialty boxes:

Dish pack boxes (with extra-thick walls and dividers) for dishes and glassware. If you have a flat-screen TV, a TV box sized to fit provides crucial protection.

Pro Tip:

If you’re unsure how many moving boxes and other packing supplies you need, professional movers in Ottawa can help you choose the right moving and packing supplies based on your home’s square footage.

Where Can You Buy Moving Supplies in Ottawa?

Before we dive into specific recommendations, let’s clear up the confusion about where moving and storage supplies actually come from. There are three main ways to source your moving and packaging supplies in Ottawa, and understanding the difference between storage vs moving company supplies, is the first step to saving money.

1. Dedicated Retail & Moving Supply Stores

These are specialty retailers and home improvement stores that focus exclusively on moving and packing supplies Ottawa residents need. Think of them as the “one-stop-shop” for everything from standard moving boxes to specialty items like dish packs and wardrobe boxes.

What they offer: The most comprehensive selection you’ll find anywhere. These stores stock everything from basic cardboard boxes to specialty packaging supplies Ottawa movers use professionally. You’ll find multiple box sizes, heavy-duty packing materials, furniture protection, and those specific items you didn’t even know existed.

Best for: DIY movers who want options, people moving large households, anyone looking for specialty packing materials, and folks who appreciate having knowledgeable staff available to answer questions about quantities and techniques.

The advantage:

These stores are easy to find and when you walk into a dedicated supply store, they can tell you exactly how many boxes you need for your 3-bedroom home and which tape dispenser will save your sanity.

2. Storage Companies with Moving Supplies Sections

Self-storage facilities have caught on to customer needs. If you’re renting a storage unit, you probably also need boxes and packing materials. Many storage companies in Ottawa now sell moving and storage supplies on-site which is incredibly helpful if you are moving items directly into a unit.

What they offer: Essential moving supplies, boxes in standard sizes, tape, bubble wrap, and basic packing materials. The selection is usually more limited than specialty stores, but it covers the fundamentals. Some larger facilities stock a surprisingly comprehensive range of storage boxes Ottawa customers need for long-term storage solutions.

Best for: Anyone already renting a storage unit, DIY movers and people who need supplies quickly without making a special trip, and those looking for a one-stop solution when combining moving and storage in Ottawa.

3. Moving Companies That Offer Moving Supplies

Many full-service moving companies in Ottawa also retail moving and storage supplies to the public, whether you’re hiring them for the actual move or not. These are professional movers who know their products inside and out because they use them daily.

What they offer: Professional-grade moving boxes and materials, the same quality items Ottawa movers use for their clients. Many also offer package deals where you can bundle supplies with moving services at a discount. The selection might not be as extensive as dedicated supply stores, but what they stock is reliable and tested in real-world conditions.

Best for: People who are hiring professional movers with moving and storage services included, anyone who wants commercial-quality materials, and those who value expert consultation about what they actually need versus what’s just nice to have.

Professional movers Tip:

Even if you’re planning a DIY move, calling a few moving companies Ottawa has to offer and asking about their supply prices can be worth it. Some offer surprisingly competitive rates, and you’re getting materials that can handle the job.

Comparison: Moving Companies vs. Storage Companies

Feature	Moving Companies	Storage Companies
Price	Competitive (especially in bulk)	Can be higher per item
Box Quality	Professional-grade (Double-walled)	Standard retail grade
Quantity Guidance	Expert/Customized	General estimates
Delivery	Often available	Rarely available
Best Use Case	Large homes/Fragile items	Small units/Temporary storage

Best Places to Buy Moving Supplies in Ottawa: Top Picks

 

Now for what you’ve been waiting for where to actually go. To help you decide where to buy moving boxes, we’ve categorized the top options for moving boxes Ottawa residents recommend by their strengths: 

Best Moving Supplies Stores in Ottawa 

1. MovingBoxes.ca

One of Canada’s leading online moving supply retailers with excellent service to the Ottawa area. MovingBoxes.ca has built a strong reputation for quality products, competitive pricing, and reliable delivery across the region.

What makes them stand out: 

Their online platform is exceptionally user-friendly, with detailed product specifications, packing guides, and quantity calculators that help you estimate exactly what you need. They offer one of the most comprehensive selections of packing supplies Ottawa has to offer, ranging from wine bottle protectors to heavy-duty TV boxes. 

Product range: 

Extensive inventory including all standard moving and shipping boxes Ottawa, specialty wardrobe moving boxes with metal hanging bars, heavy-duty dish pack boxes, mirror and picture boxes, and an impressive selection of eco-friendly options. They stock professional-grade packing materials, including various grades of bubble wrap, virgin packing paper and specialized furniture protection. They also offer complete moving kits tailored by home size.

Pricing: 

They offer very competitive rates especially for bulk orders. Moving kits offer excellent value, typically 15-20% savings versus buying items individually. Individual boxes start around $2.50 for small boxes, $3.50 for medium, and $5 for large. They frequently run promotions and discount codes.

Location & convenience: 

Delivery is reliable, usually within 2-3 business days, with expedited options available throughout Ottawa and surrounding areas. They also offer free delivery on orders over $100 within the Ottawa region. 

Best for: 

Online shoppers who appreciate convenience, people who want to carefully research and compare products before buying, anyone moving to Ottawa during inconvenient hours, and those who value detailed product information and packing guidance.

2. Frogbox

Here’s something completely different, Frogbox offers an innovative alternative to traditional cardboard boxes. They rent reusable plastic moving bins, delivering them to your door and picking them up after your move. It’s an eco-friendly solution that’s gaining serious traction among environmentally conscious Ottawa movers.

What makes them stand out: 

Sustainability is their core mission. By renting instead of buying cardboard, you eliminate waste entirely. The bins are specifically designed for moving, they’re stackable, have comfortable handles, and are more durable than cardboard. They won’t collapse under weight, don’t require tape, and are water-resistant. If it rains on moving day, your belongings stay dry.

Product range: 

Reusable plastic bins in multiple sizes, including standard moving bins, wardrobe moving boxes with hanging bars, and specialty bins. They also rent moving dollies and provide complimentary moving labels. While you can’t purchase packing paper or bubble wrap directly from them, they can recommend packing suppliers or you can use towels and linens as eco-friendly packing material.

Pricing: 

Rental-based pricing model. Expect to pay around $150-300 for enough bins for a 2-3 bedroom home for a 2-3 week rental period. The longer you keep the bins, the higher the cost, so timing matters. When you factor in the cost of buying new boxes, tape, and disposal, Frogbox’s pricing is competitive, especially for larger moves. Plus, you’re paying for convenience, they deliver and pick up, saving you trips to stores and recycling centers.

Location & convenience: 

They deliver bins directly to your home in Ottawa and surrounding areas and pick them up after your move. You schedule your delivery date when you start packing and pickup date (after you’ve unpacked. This is incredibly convenient as there is no driving to stores, no breaking down boxes afterward, no trip to the recycling depot.

Best for: 

Environmentally conscious movers, people who hate dealing with cardboard box disposal, anyone who values convenience and is willing to pay a modest premium for it, and movers with tight timelines who benefit from bins that don’t require assembly or taping.

Best Moving Companies That offer Moving & Storage Supplies

1. Boyd Moving & Storage

A respected name in Ottawa moving and storage with over 100 years of combined experience in the industry. Boyd operates as a full moving service company that also retails high-quality moving supplies to both customers and the general public.

What makes them stand out: 

These moving companies offer moving supplies for client moves that meet professional moving standards. If you’re booking moving services with Boyd, ask about supply packages. They often bundle supplies at discounted rates when you’re using their moving services. Their staff can provide accurate estimates for quantities based on your home size and provide professional packing advice.

Product range: 

Professional-grade moving boxes in all standard sizes, commercial-quality packing tape, heavy-duty furniture blankets, professional stretch wrap, and specialty boxes. Selection is curated, they don’t carry 50 varieties of each item, but what they stock is proven in real-world moving conditions. They also rent or sell moving equipment like furniture dollies and appliance carts.

Pricing: 

Premium pricing that reflects professional quality, but reasonable given what you’re getting. Supply bundles with moving services can reduce costs by 20-30%. If you’re hiring professional movers or office movers anyway, getting supplies from the same company often works out to be cost-effective and convenient. 

Location & convenience: 

Located in Ottawa with a showroom where you can see products before buying. Delivery available, especially when coordinated with moving services. You can purchase supplies separately or as part of a comprehensive moving package.

Best for: 

Anyone hiring professional movers, people who want commercial-grade materials they can trust, long-distance movers where durability matters, and those who value expert consultation about proper packing techniques.

2. Classic Movers

One of Ottawa’s most established moving companies, Classic Movers offers moving and storage services alongside local moving. They’re a full moving service company that’s been serving the region for years with a solid reputation for reliability and customer service.

What makes them stand out: 

Local knowledge and personalized service. As an Ottawa-based operation, they understand the unique challenges of local moving in the region from navigating narrow downtown streets to dealing with unpredictable weather. They’re particularly helpful for first-time movers, and for all those looking for commercial movers, residential moving service, packing service, local moving service, or moving and storage supplies. 

Product range: 

Complete selection of moving boxes, bulk options in all common sizes, quality packing materials, furniture protection, mattress bags, and specialty items. They focus on essentials that work rather than overwhelming you with choices. They also offer moving equipment rentals including hand trucks, furniture dollies, and moving straps useful if you’re doing a DIY move but want professional tools.

Pricing:

Fair and transparent pricing that sits in the mid-range, not the cheapest option but not premium-priced either. They’re upfront about costs with no hidden fees. Package deals available, especially if you’re renting equipment or booking moving services. They respect budgets and will help you prioritize where to invest in quality supplies versus where you can safely save money.

Location & convenience: 

Based in Ottawa with delivery available throughout the region. Call ahead to discuss your needs, they’re happy to provide phone consultations where you describe your move and they help you build a supply list with estimated moving costs. This personalized approach helps prevent over-buying or under-buying.

Best for: 

This is a great fit for anyone hiring professional movers who need reliable materials, first-time movers who want guidance for commercial or residential moving service, and businesses looking for experienced office movers. It’s also ideal for people who value straightforward advice without pushy sales tactics, clear communication, and transparent pricing when booking a full moving service.

Best Storage Companies with Supply Sections

1. Dymon Storage 

With numerous locations across Ottawa, Dymon is one of the city’s largest self-storage providers. They’ve developed a robust supply retail section at most locations to serve their storage customers and the general public.

What makes them stand out:

Ultimate convenience for anyone already using or considering storage units Ottawa facilities. Their locations offer extended access hours, so you can pick up supplies when it’s convenient for you, including evenings and weekends. Many locations have 24/7 access if you’re a storage customer.

Product range:

All the essentials moving boxes in standard sizes, packing tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, mattress bags, and storage boxes Ottawa customers use for long-term storage. Selection varies by location but generally covers what most people need. Larger locations stock specialty items like climate-controlled storage boxes for documents and photos.

Pricing:

Competitive and straightforward. They offer discounts to storage unit renters typically 10-15% off supply purchases. Prices are comparable to big-box retailers but with better convenience.

Location & convenience:

Multiple locations throughout Ottawa and surrounding areas means there’s likely one near you. If you’re renting a storage unit, you’re already there, no extra trip needed. Most locations offer package deals where you can bundle your first month’s storage with a moving supply kit.

Best for:

Storage unit renters (the discount and convenience are unbeatable), people who need both moving and storage services, and anyone looking for a straightforward, no-fuss supply purchase experience.

2. Acceptable Storage

Another strong player in Ottawa moving and storage, Acceptable Storage has built a reputation for customer-focused service and comprehensive solutions that go beyond just storage units. Their supply offerings have expanded significantly in recent years.

What makes them stand out:

They’ve thoughtfully integrated moving supplies into their service model, recognizing that most customers need both storage and supplies. Their staff receives training on proper packing techniques for storage, so they can advise you on the best materials for items going into storage long-term, especially important for climate-sensitive items. They also offer some of the more competitive pricing on storage units Ottawa has available, and supplies are priced accordingly.

Product range:

Standard and specialty moving boxes, quality packing materials with emphasis on supplies that work well for long-term storage (moisture-resistant options, heavy-duty boxes for stacking), locks and security supplies, and shelving solutions. Several locations stock vacuum-sealed storage bags, which are excellent for maximizing space in storage units. They also carry supplies specifically designed for storing business documents, inventory, and equipment.

Pricing:

Competitive with promotional deals frequently available. Storage customers get preferential pricing on supplies usually around 10-15% off. They run combo specials regularly, such as “rent a unit for 3 months and get a free moving kit” or seasonal promotions during slower periods. Individual box prices are in line with other storage facilities, ranging from $2-6 depending on size.

Location & convenience:

Multiple locations across Ottawa with good access and ample parking. Their facilities are clean and well-maintained, making supply shopping pleasant rather than feeling like an industrial errand. Online ordering available with in-store pickup or delivery for larger orders. Their website includes helpful planning tools and storage calculators that help you estimate both storage unit size and supply quantities needed.

Best for:

People looking for both moving and storage supplies in Ottawa, organized planners who appreciate comprehensive online resources, business owners needing storage and supplies for inventory or equipment, and anyone looking to consolidate moving and storage decisions with one reliable provider.

Where to Find the Best Price for Moving Boxes in Ottawa?

Budget champion: 

For the best price on moving and storage supplies, check Walmart or local listings on MovingWaldo for free or cheap used boxes. If cost is your absolute top priority and you don’t mind some hunting around, used boxes from online marketplaces can cost nothing beyond your time. Just inspect carefully for damage, moisture exposure, or pest issues.

Best value for quality: 

MovingBoxes.ca and dedicated moving supply stores during promotional periods. These retailers often run seasonal promotions where you can get quality boxes at prices comparable to or better than big-box retailers. Sign up for their email lists to catch these deals.

Most convenient: 

Storage companies like Dymon or Acceptable Storage if you’re already renting a unit, or Home Depot/Lowe’s if you’re not. Sometimes saving $20-30 on supplies isn’t worth an extra hour of driving around town.

Best eco-friendly option: 

Frogbox Ottawa for reusable bin rentals. While upfront rental costs are higher than buying cheap cardboard, you eliminate waste entirely and save time on disposal. The convenience of delivery and pickup adds significant value.

Which Option is Right for You?

Still not sure which option fits your situation? Here’s how to decide:

Choose dedicated moving supply stores if:

• You’re doing a complete DIY move and need everything
• You want the widest selection of sizes and specialty items
• You’re packing fragile or valuable items that need specialized protection
• You appreciate having access to knowledgeable staff for advice
• You want to compare options and prices in one location

Choose moving companies if:

• You’re hiring professional Ottawa movers 
• You want commercial-grade quality that professionals trust
• You need expert guidance on quantities and proper packing techniques
• You’re doing a long-distance move where quality really matters
• You are looking for full moving service company including packing service and packing supplies

Choose storage companies if:

• You’re already using their storage services
• You need basic moving supplies quickly without extra stops
• Convenience is your absolute top priority
• You’re overwhelmed by cost to hire Ottawa movers and looking for a simple solution
• You’re storing items long-term and want to buy supplies at the same location

Take the Stress Out of Your Ottawa Move

When searching for the best moving supplies stores in Ottawa, remember that quality matters. If you want pure convenience, your local storage provider is a great bet. Investing a little more in high-quality packing supplies in Ottawa can save you thousands of dollars in potential damages and hours of frustration. However, if you want the best protection for your valuables, and looking for a hands-off experience, many Ottawa movers offer full-service packages. These moving and storage companies in Ottawa can handle everything: providing the supplies, packing your kitchen, moving your furniture, and even providing climate-controlled storage if your new home isn’t ready.

FAQs

What is the cost of moving boxes?

Individual boxes typically range from $2.50 to $6.00 depending on size. Moving kits for a standard home usually cost between $150 and $400.

Can I rent moving supplies in Ottawa?

Yes. Companies like Frogbox allow you to rent plastic bins, which is often more convenient than buying and disposing of cardboard.

Are storage boxes Ottawa stores sell different from moving boxes?

Generally, moving boxes are designed for transport (thicker walls), while storage boxes might be optimized for stacking and moisture resistance.