Helpful Packing Advice for Your Move

Published: October 01, 2024

Packing can be one of the most overwhelming parts of moving. With so many belongings to sort through and organize, it’s easy to feel stressed and unsure of where to start. Luckily, with a bit of planning and the right approach, you can make the process a lot smoother and more manageable. Here’s some packing advice to help you prepare for your move with ease.

1. Start Early

One of the best ways to reduce stress is to start packing early. Don’t wait until the last minute to throw everything into boxes. Instead, begin the process several weeks before your move. This gives you enough time to sort through your belongings and pack at a comfortable pace. Start with items you don’t use daily, such as seasonal clothing, holiday decorations, or rarely used kitchen gadgets. As moving day gets closer, you can focus on packing essentials and items you use more frequently.

2. Declutter Before You Pack

Before you dive into the packing process, take some time to declutter. Moving is the perfect opportunity to get rid of items you no longer need or use. Go through each room and decide what you want to keep, donate, sell, or throw away. By decluttering before you begin packing, you’ll have fewer items to pack, and your new home will be less cluttered from the start. 

3. Pack One Room at a Time

To stay organized, pack one room at a time. Packing this way makes it easier to keep track of what’s been packed and ensures that everything from a specific area stays together. Label each box with the room it belongs to, as well as a brief description of its contents. This will make unpacking much easier when you arrive at your new home. You can also color-code boxes by room to make the process even more efficient. By focusing on one room at a time, you’ll avoid feeling overwhelmed and can maintain a steady pace.

4. Use Quality Packing Supplies

Investing in quality packing supplies can save you time and prevent damage to your belongings. Sturdy boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and packing paper are essential for keeping your items safe during the move. Avoid using flimsy or overused boxes, as they may not hold up well during transport. Additionally, use the right size box for the items. Heavy items like books should go in smaller boxes to prevent them from becoming too heavy to lift. Lighter items like bedding and pillows can be packed in larger boxes.

5. Label Your Boxes Clearly

Clearly labeling your boxes is crucial for staying organized during your move. As you’re packing, make sure to write what’s inside each box and which room it belongs to. Consider labeling multiple sides of the box so that the information is visible no matter how it’s stacked. This small step will save you a lot of time when unpacking in your new home, as you’ll know exactly where everything goes.

6. Keep Essentials Separate

During the packing process, don’t forget to pack a separate box or bag with essentials for your first night in your new home. This should include items like toiletries, a change of clothes, basic kitchen supplies, medications, and important documents. Label this box clearly and keep it with you during the move rather than having it mixed in with the rest of your belongings.

7. Protect Fragile Items

When it comes to fragile items like dishes, glassware, or electronics, take extra care to protect them. Wrap each item individually in bubble wrap or packing paper, and use dish packs or boxes specifically designed for breakables. Fill any empty spaces in the box with packing peanuts or crumpled paper to prevent items from shifting during transit. Label these boxes as “fragile” so everyone knows to handle them with care.

8. Don’t Overpack Boxes

It might be tempting to fit as much as you can into each box, but overpacking can lead to damage or make boxes too heavy to carry. Stick to a reasonable weight limit (around 40 pounds per box) to make lifting and transporting easier. If a box feels too heavy, it’s a good idea to repack it with fewer items and use another box for the overflow. By not overpacking, you’ll prevent your belongings from getting damaged.

Moving can be a big task, but you can make the process much smoother with the right packing strategies. Start early, stay organized by doing one room at a time, and invest in quality supplies to protect your belongings. By following these helpful packing tips, you’ll be well on your way to a successful move and a stress-free transition into your new home.

Do you need help moving? Visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Central NJ or call us today at (732) 800-5569 to get a free quote.