Essential Packing Dos and Don'ts for Moving

Posted on 25/05/2025

Essential Packing Dos and Don'ts for Moving

Whether you're moving across town or relocating to a new state, proper packing is crucial for a successful and stress-free move. Packing might seem straightforward, but there are several critical dos and don'ts to consider to protect your belongings and simplify the unpacking process. In this comprehensive guide, we'll reveal the essential packing tips, common mistakes, and expert advice on the dos and don'ts of packing for a move, ensuring your valuables arrive safely at your new doorstep.

Why Packing Properly Matters During a Move

Many people underestimate the importance of packing properly for a move. A systematic packing approach saves time, reduces stress, and prevents your items from getting lost or damaged. Efficient packing also makes it easier to unpack and settle into your new home.

• Protects fragile items: Adequate packing prevents breakage during handling and transportation.
• Saves time: Organized packing ensures a smoother loading and unloading process.
• Reduces moving costs: Smart packing minimizes the number of boxes and packing materials needed, potentially lowering costs.
• Makes unpacking easier: Labelled and categorized boxes simplify settling into your new space.

Top Dos of Packing for a Move

1. Start Early and Make a Packing Plan

One of the most essential packing dos for moving is to start early. Packing at the last minute leads to disorganization, forgotten items, and unnecessary stress.

• Begin with rooms and items you use least.
• Set a timeline and break packing tasks into manageable chunks.
• _Create a detailed checklist_ to keep track of progress.

2. Gather the Right Packing Supplies

Using the proper supplies increases the safety of your belongings. Invest in high-quality materials, including:

• Sturdy moving boxes of various sizes
• Bubble wrap, packing paper, or soft linens for cushioning
• Packing tape and tape dispensers
• Permanent markers for labeling
• Stretch wrap or sealable plastic bags for loose items
• Specialty containers for fragile valuables, wardrobes, or electronics

3. Label Boxes Clearly and Consistently

Always label boxes on multiple sides with details about the room they belong to and a brief description of contents. This tip is crucial among essential packing do's because it ensures:

• Efficient unloading and placement in your new home
• Easy access to essentials during the first few days after moving

_Consider color-coding_ or numbering boxes for even better organization.

4. Pack Similar Items Together

Pack similar items together to make unpacking easier. For example, keep kitchen items with other kitchen goods, books with books, etc. This method also helps you keep track of your belongings and avoid accidental breakage.

5. Use Proper Packing Techniques

_Sturdy packing_ prevents contents from shifting or breaking. Here are a few techniques to employ:

• Place heavy items at the bottom of boxes and lighter items on top.
• Fill empty spaces with packing paper, towels, or clothing to prevent movement.
• Stack plates and breakables vertically, not flat, to reduce pressure and breakage.
• Disassemble bulky furniture where possible, and keep hardware together in labeled bags.
• Wrap breakables individually in bubble wrap or packing paper.

6. Pack a Moving Day Essentials Box

This is often overlooked but is one of the most important packing tips for moving. Prepare a separate box with essentials you'll need throughout moving day and your first night in the new place. Include:

• Medications and toiletries
• Phone chargers and basic electronics
• Important documents (ID, lease, keys)
• Snacks, bottled water, and disposable utensils
• A change of clothes and basic cleaning supplies

Label this box as "Open First" and keep it with you during the move.

7. Purge Unwanted or Unused Items

Decluttering before you pack lightens your load and saves time and money. Donate, sell, or discard belongings you no longer need. Ask yourself if you've used the item in the last year, and be honest about what you truly want to bring to your new home.

8. Take Inventory of Your Belongings

Before you seal your boxes, create a written or photographed inventory of your packed items. This assists with:

• Keeping your move organized
• Insurance claims if anything goes missing or gets damaged
• Quickly finding specific items later

9. Use Suitcases and Drawers

Don't waste valuable space. Use sturdy suitcases to transport heavy items like books or footwear. Securely tape drawers shut--or, if possible, remove and wrap them before moving. This saves on boxes and makes the most of your available packing space.

Biggest Packing Don'ts for Moving

1. Don't Overload Boxes

One of the most common packing mistakes is overfilling boxes. This can cause boxes to tear or collapse, damaging your contents and posing a risk to movers.

• Keep box weight under 50 pounds (about 23 kg), or less if possible.
• Avoid packing many heavy items together in a large box; instead, use smaller boxes for heavier goods.

2. Don't Leave Empty Spaces in Boxes

Empty spaces allow movement, which is a prime cause of damage during transport. Always use packing material to fill gaps and secure your belongings within each box.

3. Don't Mix Hazardous or Perishable Items

Never pack hazardous materials (bleach, paint, propane tanks), perishables (open food items, plants in dirt), or flammable substances for a move. These can create dangerous situations or spoil during transit. Check with your moving company for a comprehensive list of prohibited items.

4. Don't Forget to Label Fragile Boxes

Always label boxes containing breakables as "Fragile." This alerts movers to handle those boxes with extra care. For added protection, label boxes containing "This Side Up" or "Handle With Care."

5. Don't Wait Until the Last Minute

Last-minute packing leads to disorganization, lost or broken items, and unnecessary stress. Give yourself ample time to methodically sort, wrap, and label each box. Your future self will thank you!

6. Don't Pack Valuables or Important Documents with Movers

Keep essential paperwork, jewelry, family heirlooms, and portable electronics with you throughout your move. These items are irreplaceable and should not be entrusted to the moving van.

7. Don't Use Damaged Boxes

Old or weak boxes may collapse during the move. Always inspect and use only sturdy, structurally sound containers.

8. Don't Neglect Furniture Protection

Moving can be rough on furniture. Use moving blankets, stretch wrap, and bubble wrap to protect corners, surfaces, and fragile parts of couches, tables, and dressers. Always disassemble furniture if possible, and secure loose screws in labeled bags.

9. Don't Forget to Notify Utilities and Change Address

While not a packing tip per se, it's an essential part of the moving process. Set reminders to update your address with all essential contacts, banks, subscriptions, and your local post office. Schedule disconnects and reconnects for utilities such as electricity, water, gas, and internet.

Additional Packing Advice for a Smooth Move

Packing Fragile Items Properly

• _Wrap dishes and glasses individually_; consider using double-boxing for extra protection.
• Pack plates vertically like records.
• Use towels or bubble wrap to add cushion layers to boxes with delicate items.

Packing Electronics and Appliances

• Whenever possible, use original boxes with styrofoam inserts.
• Remove batteries and cables, packing them in labeled zip-top bags.
• Take photos of setups before disconnecting wires for easy reassembly.
• Allow refrigerators and freezers to defrost prior to moving day.

Handling Specialty and Large Items

Pools tables, pianos, art, and large mirrors require special consideration. If you have such items, consult with professionals for proper packing and handling advice. Consider hiring specialty movers to avoid costly damages.

Frequently Asked Questions about Packing for a Move

1. What do I pack first when moving?
   Start with items you use least, such as off-season clothing, decor, and specialty kitchenware. Gradually move on to everyday essentials closer to your moving day.
2. Should I use plastic totes or cardboard boxes?
   Both have advantages. Plastic totes are reusable and water-resistant, while cardboard boxes are economical and easy to recycle. Use both depending on your needs and budget.
3. How do I pack clothes for a move?
   Use wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes, and roll or fold other clothing into suitcases or sturdy boxes. Clothes also make great cushioning for fragile items.
4. Is it worth hiring professional packers?
   If your budget allows and you have limited time, professional packers can save stress and ensure your belongings are protected. Otherwise, follow this list of packing dos and don'ts for a DIY move.

Conclusion: Make Your Next Move Easy with These Packing Dos and Don'ts

Moving house doesn't have to be stressful or chaotic. By following these essential packing dos and don'ts for moving, you'll protect your possessions, maintain your sanity, and set up a smooth transition into your new home. Remember to start early, use proper materials and techniques, and avoid the common pitfalls that complicate the moving process.

Planning ahead and staying organized is the key to a successful relocation. Whether you're hiring movers or going DIY, these comprehensive packing tips for moving will see you through from your old doorstep to your fresh new beginning. Happy moving!