How To Pack for a Move: 20 Packing Tips for Moving

Packing up your life, moving to a new home, settling in a new country, and setting a new routine… It’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Especially when you’re wondering where to begin – not to mention being surrounded by boxes and bubble wrap! Fortunately, we’ve put together a list of 20 packing tips for moving – whether it’s finding a safe space for your stuff, decluttering, gathering moving supplies, or protecting your fragile items, these strategies will set you up for a smooth transition to your new place.

1. Declutter and Donate First

Getting rid of items you no longer need is a great first step before you begin packing. Decluttering not only makes the packing process easier but also reduces the number of boxes you’ll need to move. Donate gently used items to charities that offer pick-up services, and consider selling high-value items you no longer need.

2. Gather The Right Packing Supplies

Packing is much easier and more efficient when you have the right supplies on hand from the start. Gathering all necessary materials ahead of time not only saves you from repeated trips to the store but also means you can pack effectively and keep your items safe during the move.

On a budget? There are many places to find moving boxes for free, including asking local businesses, checking Facebook marketplace, and asking friends or family for boxes from recent purchases.

Here are a few must-have packing supplies you’ll need before you begin:

• Moving Boxes: Stock up on a variety of box sizes. Smaller boxes work well for heavy items like books, while larger boxes are perfect for lighter, bulkier items like bedding and pillows. Having a range of sizes allows you to pack everything securely and avoid overloading any single box. 
• Packing Paper: Use packing paper to wrap fragile items like glassware and dishes. It’s also helpful for filling empty spaces in boxes to prevent items from shifting around during transport. Save up your newspaper for an eco-friendly solution.
• Bubble Wrap: For particularly fragile items, bubble wrap is essential. Wrap electronics, picture frames, and delicate decor items in a few layers of bubble wrap to protect them from bumps and drops.
• Packing Tape: A good-quality packing tape that’s strong and durable is a must to seal your boxes securely. Make sure you have enough on hand and consider a tape dispenser to make the process quicker and easier.
• Permanent Markers: Labeling each box with a permanent marker or using pre-made labels will help you keep track of what’s inside each box. Clear labels make unpacking much more manageable and allow you to place boxes in the correct rooms immediately.
• Scissors and Utility Knife: Keep a pair of scissors or a utility knife handy for cutting tape, trimming packing material, and opening boxes once you arrive at your new home.
• Plastic Baggies: Small plastic bags are perfect for holding screws, bolts, and other small parts when you disassemble furniture. Label each baggie with the name of the item it belongs to, and tape it directly to the furniture or pack it in a designated “hardware” box.
• Stretch Wrap: Stretch wrap can be used to bundle together items like drawers or to wrap furniture pieces, keeping them protected from scratches or dust. It’s also handy for keeping items like silverware trays intact so you can simply transfer them from one drawer to another without repacking.
• Furniture Blankets and Pads: If you have large furniture pieces or appliances, consider renting or purchasing furniture blankets. These provide an extra layer of protection and prevent scratches or dents as items are moved.

Pro Tip: To avoid running out of supplies, buy a little more than you think you’ll need. Any leftover packing materials can be kept for future moves, given to friends, or even used for storage organization later on. Starting with a well-stocked packing station ensures you’re ready to tackle your move without delays or frustration. If you’re looking to make your move more eco-friendly, check out our sustainable packing tips.

3. Create a Packing Schedule

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Packing over time is much more manageable than trying to tackle everything at once. Start by creating a schedule, and aim to pack one room or area each day. For instance, pack your bedroom and hall closets on Monday, your craft room on Tuesday, your living room on Wednesday, etc. 

4. Label Your Boxes Clearly

Using a consistent labeling system can save you a significant amount of time and effort when it comes to unpacking. Start by labeling each box with its contents and the room it belongs to, such as “Kitchen – Pots & Pans” or “Bedroom – Linens.” This system makes it easy to place boxes directly in the correct rooms, speeding up the process of getting organized in your new home.

5. Pack a Survival Kit

Packing a “moving day survival kit”, or an “open-first box”, is a great idea to ensure you have quick access to the essentials you’ll need in your new home. After a long day of moving, you may not have the energy to unpack everything, – but having a small kit with the basics will make your first night much more comfortable. Your survival kit should include items that you’ll need for both convenience and comfort.

Consider packing the following essentials in a sturdy, easy-to-access bag or box:

• Toiletries: Items like toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, and any medications you take regularly. Don’t forget essentials like shampoo, conditioner, and a shower curtain if you need one to take a shower right away.
• Paper Products: Pack toilet paper, paper towels, and tissues. These small things are often overlooked but can make a big difference when you arrive.
• Basic Cleaning Supplies: A few cleaning wipes or all-purpose spray and a rag or paper towels can be helpful for quick clean-ups or wiping down surfaces as you settle in.
• Clothing and Bedding: Include a change of clothes and any necessary pajamas. If you don’t plan on unpacking bedding right away, consider packing a pillow, blanket, or sleeping bag to make your first night more comfortable.
• Food and Water: Pack snacks, bottled water, and simple meal options, like granola bars or instant noodles. This will come in handy if you arrive late and haven’t had a chance to buy groceries or unpack kitchen appliances.
• Toolkit: A basic toolkit with a screwdriver, utility knife, scissors, and a small hammer can be useful for any immediate setup tasks or if you need to open boxes quickly.
• Electronics and Chargers: Make sure you have your phone, charger, and any other devices you rely on regularly, such as a laptop or tablet.
• Important Documents: Keep items like IDs, insurance papers, and any documents related to the move in a safe folder within your survival kit. It’s helpful to have these on hand just in case.

Pro Tip: Keep this kit with you during the move instead of putting it on the moving truck. That way, no matter what time you arrive, you’ll have everything you need to settle in and start fresh the next day. Preparing a survival kit not only saves you from rummaging through boxes but also gives you peace of mind as you start your new chapter. This will be especially helpful if you have little to no time to prepare and pack for your move.

6. Start With the Least Used Items

When planning your packing strategy, a great place to start is with items you rarely use. Focus on things that you won’t need access to in the immediate future, such as seasonal clothing, holiday decorations, or specialty kitchen appliances. For instance, if you’re moving in the summer, you can pack up winter coats, snow boots, and other cold-weather gear first. By tackling these less-used items early, you’ll create more space and make the packing process feel less overwhelming.

Pro Tip: Consider packing these items into storage-friendly containers or bins. If you’re not planning to unpack them right away at your new home, you might want to store them in a self-storage unit temporarily to keep them out of your way during the initial move-in. This is especially helpful if you have limited space in your new home, allowing you to prioritize unpacking the essentials first. A storage unit gives you the flexibility to retrieve these items when you actually need them, keeping your new living space clutter-free as you settle in.

7. Fill Boxes Completely and Efficiently

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When packing boxes, make sure each one is filled to capacity to prevent items from shifting during transit. Even a small amount of movement inside a box can cause fragile items to shift and potentially break. Begin by placing heavier items on the bottom of the box and lighter items on top. Once everything is packed, check for any gaps or empty spaces, which can cause the contents to move around.

To fill these spaces, use packing paper, towels, or even clothing as padding. This not only protects your items but also maximizes the use of space. For particularly delicate items, consider wrapping them individually before placing them in the box, and then use soft materials to create a buffer around them.

Pro Tip: Avoid using heavy items, like books, to fill gaps around fragile pieces, as this can add weight and increase the risk of damage. Instead, reserve lightweight materials – such as socks, scarves, or even crumpled newspaper – as cushioning.

8. Use Packing Paper Wisely

Packing paper is versatile, making it ideal for wrapping fragile items and filling empty spaces in boxes. Wrap glassware, dishes, and other delicate items securely, and add packing paper between items to prevent them from moving.

9. Utilize Bubble Wrap for Fragile Items

Bubble wrap provides a layer of cushioning for fragile items like electronics and dishware. Wrap items individually, and secure the wrap with tape to ensure maximum protection during the move.

10. Disassemble Furniture as Much as Possible

To maximize space, take apart any furniture that you can. By disassembling large pieces, you’ll have more room in your moving truck or container and might save on shipping costs as well. Flat pack furniture, like that made by IKEA, can often be taken apart fairly easily. Just make sure not to keep track of the screws and other hardware!

11. Fold Clothes Efficiently 

When packing clothing, maximizing space is key. Instead of simply folding clothes as you would in a drawer, consider rolling them tightly. Rolling not only saves space but also helps prevent wrinkles. You can pack these rolled items into boxes or suitcases, making them easier to transport and unpack. If you want to take it a step further, vacuum-sealed bags are a great option for packing bulky items like sweaters, jackets, or even blankets. These bags compress your clothing to a fraction of its original size, allowing you to fit more items in fewer boxes.

12. Protect Mirrors and Glass

Ensure your mirrors, glassware, and picture frames are protected by using a combination of bubble wrap and cardboard. Placing cardboard between glass items or taping it across mirrors adds a layer of protection against breakage.

13. Take Extra Care with Electronics

If you still have the original packaging for your electronics, it’s best to use it since most of the packaging includes styrofoam that’s specifically shaped to the items. Otherwise, wrap each item in bubble wrap, or blankets, and place it in a box lined with packing paper (if you don’t use blankets) to prevent damage during the move. Be sure to unplug all cords so they don’t get damaged.

14. Tape Your Boxes Well

Avoid overfilling your boxes, but make sure they’re taped securely. Cover each seam tightly with packing tape to prevent the box from breaking open during transport. Place an additional strip or two of tape across the bottom and top of the box to help hold the flaps tightly in place.

15. Keep Valuables With You

Important items such as jewelry, passports, and family heirlooms should be kept with you rather than placed in the moving truck. This ensures that your valuables stay safe and reduces the risk of losing irreplaceable items.

16. Keep or Take a Photo of any Furniture Assembly Instructions

When disassembling furniture, take a quick photo of any assembly instructions or labels to make reassembly at your new home much easier. If you still have the original assembly documents or instruction manuals, keep them in a dedicated spot, like a folder or binder, so they’re all in one place. This simple step can save you time and frustration, especially for complex pieces. 

Pro Tip: Whenever you purchase new furniture, hold on to instruction manuals and assembly guides. Store them in a labeled folder or scan them into a digital file, so you’ll have everything handy for future moves or repairs. Many large furniture manufacturers even keep assembly instructions on their websites.

17. Hire Professional Packers

Professional moving companies often offer packing services separate from moving services. While professional packers can be an investment, they make the process much easier. If you have a large household, heavy furniture, or limited time, hiring professionals can help reduce stress and reduce damage to your belongings in transit.

18. Separate Cleaning Supplies

Cleaning supplies are household essentials – and let’s face it, they’ve gotta be moved too. But they can pose a risk or stain other items during your move if they leak or spill. Plus, you will likely need them to clean your old place on the way out and to clean up your new place on your way in. To avoid any mess, pack all cleaning products in a separate, sealed container, like a plastic bin with a tight-fitting lid. Make sure each bottle is closed tightly, and consider wrapping them in plastic bags for added protection. This way, if anything leaks, it won’t damage your other belongings.

Pro Tip: Place absorbent materials, such as paper towels or old rags, at the bottom of the container. This will help soak up any potential spills and keep the rest of your items safe. Plus, you’ll have some extra cleaning rags ready to go when you arrive at your new home!

19. Repurpose Items You Own for Packing

Get creative with your packing by using what you already own. For example, suitcases can be used to transport clothes, and blankets can be used to cushion fragile items. If you’re already using a storage system for holiday decor, camping gear or family heirlooms – they might be all set to move! Just check to make sure all items are secure and padded.

20. Be Patient

Moving is one of life’s most stressful events, so take breaks and stay hydrated and well-fed throughout the process. Moving can be done in phases – start with non-essentials and larger items first, and move your way to the essentials. Remember, you don’t need to do everything in one day. Allow yourself some grace, and pace yourself.

Ready To Pack Up Your Stuff?

Moving doesn’t have to be overwhelming when you’re prepared with the right tips and tools. By following these packing tips for moving, you’ll be ready to settle into your new home with less hassle and more peace of mind. From decluttering your belongings to labeling your boxes and packing a survival kit, these strategies will help you stay on track and reduce the chaos. 

As you prepare for this exciting new chapter, remember that having the right storage solutions and moving resources can make all the difference. To learn the best solutions and how to pack for a move, visit SpareFoot and check out our blog for additional tips. Here’s to a successful move and a fresh start in your new space!