Moving to a new home is exciting—but it can also be overwhelming if you’re not prepared. Packing is one of the biggest challenges in any move. From figuring out where to start to making sure your belongings arrive safely, it’s easy to feel stressed. But with a little planning and the right strategy, packing can be a lot more manageable.
To help you out, we’ve put together the top 10 packing tips for moving that will save you time, protect your items, and reduce last-minute chaos.
1. Start Early and Make a Plan
One of the biggest mistakes people make when moving is underestimating how long packing will take. Start at least 4–6 weeks before your move date. Create a packing schedule and tackle one room at a time. Begin with items you don’t use every day—like seasonal decor, guest room items, or rarely used kitchen gadgets.
Pro Tip: Label boxes by room and mark your calendar with daily packing goals to stay on track.
2. Declutter Before You Pack
Moving is the perfect time to let go of things you no longer need. Go through each room and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or throw away. The less you have to pack, the easier (and cheaper) your move will be.
Bonus: Host a yard sale or sell items online to make extra cash before the move.
3. Gather Quality Packing Supplies
Don’t wait until the last minute to get your moving materials. Stock up on:
- Sturdy cardboard boxes (various sizes)
- Packing tape
- Bubble wrap or packing paper
- Markers and labels
- Scissors and box cutters
- Stretch wrap for furniture
Using the right supplies ensures your belongings are better protected during transport.
4. Label Everything Clearly
Label each box with:
- The room it belongs in
- A brief description of contents
- Whether it contains fragile items
- A priority level (e.g., “open first”)
Use color-coded labels or colored tape for each room to make unpacking easier at your new home.
5. Pack One Room at a Time
It may be tempting to throw things together quickly, but packing one room at a time keeps things organized. This also helps when unpacking, as each box will only contain items from the same space.
Start with the least-used rooms and save essential rooms (like the kitchen or bathroom) for last.
6. Use the Right Box Sizes
Heavy items like books should go in smaller boxes so they’re easier to carry. Lighter items like bedding or pillows can go in larger boxes.
Avoid overpacking boxes. If it’s too heavy to lift comfortably, it’s too heavy to move safely.
7. Protect Fragile Items Properly
Wrap dishes, glassware, and other breakables in bubble wrap or packing paper. Use towels, blankets, or clothing to cushion items and fill in empty spaces in boxes to prevent shifting during transit.
Clearly label boxes with fragile items and indicate which side should face up.
8. Keep Essentials in a “First Night” Box
Pack a separate box or suitcase with all the essentials you’ll need on your first night in your new home. This might include:
- Toiletries
- A change of clothes
- Medications
- Chargers
- Basic kitchen supplies
- Toilet paper and towels
- Snacks and bottled water
Having these items easily accessible means you won’t have to dig through boxes after a long moving day.
9. Take Photos of Electronics and Setups
Before unplugging TVs, gaming systems, or computer setups, take photos of the wiring and connections. This makes it easier to reassemble everything exactly how it was in your new place.
Keep cords, remotes, and manuals in clearly labeled bags and tape them to the corresponding device or pack them together in one box.
10. Don’t Leave Empty Space in Boxes
Empty space in boxes allows items to shift and possibly break during the move. Use packing paper, bubble wrap, or soft items like towels or socks to fill gaps.
When boxes are evenly packed and sealed well, they stack better in the moving truck and are less likely to collapse.
Packing may feel like a daunting task, but with the right approach, you can turn a stressful situation into a smooth process. By starting early, staying organized, and following these top 10 packing tips, you’ll be well on your way to a successful and stress-free move.
Ready to make your move easier?
Whether you’re packing up a studio apartment or a five-bedroom house, planning ahead and using these tips will save you time, energy, and headaches.
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Trust the top-rated local movers in Naperville to handle your relocation with care and efficiency. At Jackson Moving & Storage, our experienced Naperville movers make moving stress-free—whether you’re heading across town or across the state.
Get your free quote today and experience the Jackson difference!