The population in my little corner of the world is exploding. People from all over the country are moving here for the nice weather, low taxes, and abundant job opportunities. So I see people moving their stuff with pickup trucks all the time.

I would like to say that nothing surprises me anymore, but that would be lying. I am routinely surprised by how people throw things on the back of a truck and then carelessly careen down the road at 70 mph without a care on the world.

If it were me, I would rent a box truck to move my stuff. But that’s just me. If you would prefer to use a pickup truck, that’s your choice. I would only recommend that you get your hands on these five things before moving day:

1. Truck Tie-Down Straps

At the very top of the list has to be truck tie-down straps. These are webbing straps with cam buckles, similar to what truck drivers use to secure loads on flatbed trailers. A good truck tie-down strap from a reputable brand like Rollercam will keep your stuff secure.

As a side note, bear in mind that almost every state has laws on the books that require drivers to secure any and all loads they are carrying – regardless of the vehicle being used. If you don’t secure your stuff and some of it falls into the roadway, you could be charged.

2. Moving Blankets

I have seen a lot of expensive-looking furniture stuffed into the back of a pickup truck without anything protecting it from the dangers of road debris, bird droppings, and contact with other items in the truck. If you don’t want your furniture damaged during the move, get yourself some moving blankets. That’s why they exist.

3. Tarps

Moving blankets will not do much to protect your stuff in a driving rain, so you’ll need some tarps for that. Do not just assume that the weather will be nice on moving day. You could wake up to a pouring rain the weatherman never knew was coming. Then what are you going to do?

Invest in some tarps ahead of time. If you don’t end up needing them, either hold on to them for some future use or sell them online.

4. Lots of Boxes

For the love of all that’s good and decent, don’t be one of those people who moves their stuff by just throwing it all into the back of the truck without packing it first. Moving loose items is both foolish and dangerous. The right way to go is to pack things in boxes.

It is easy to keep boxes secure with truck tie-down straps. If you just throw all your stuff into the truck loosely, you won’t have any way to tie it down.

5. Lots of Helpers

Finally, if you are planning to move all your stuff with a pickup truck, plan on making multiple trips. You are going to need lots of helpers too, especially if you’re moving a whole house rather than just a studio apartment. More helpers will make your life easier. Just be prepared to feed them donuts in the morning and pizza at the end of the day.

Moving your stuff with a pickup truck can certainly be an adventure. I know; I’ve done it before. I have also attempted to do it without truck tie-down straps and boxes. Things didn’t work out so well. Thankfully though, I have learned my lesson. I have moved enough times to know how to do it the right way.