Moving 101: Tips to Pack for Your Move

Moving is a complicated process, and when not planned and executed correctly, risks ending in a big disaster. Packing is among the most crucial and stressful aspects of a move. People feel overwhelmed and intimidated looking at all the stuff they have to take along with them to the new home. The hardest part of packing is deciding where to start and what to pack or leave.

We will discuss a few steps to safely pack all your belongings and ensure that the process is well-managed and saves you from stress:

Gather packing supplies

Packing supplies play a vital role in keeping all your items safe and secure. Choosing the right and sturdy packing material and carefully packing things prevent damage. Gather all the materials and supplies for a successful move, including:

  • Different sized boxes

  • Bubble wrap

  • Packing tape

  • Wrapping sheets

  • Styrofoam

  • Old newspapers

  • Permanent markers

  • Plastic bags

  • Labeling stickers

  • Padding supplies

  • Scissors

Declutter

Moving offers the perfect opportunity to dispose of things you no longer need. Do a walkthrough of all rooms to sort your belongings into different categories. It would be best to declutter before packing to ensure that only the necessary items go to your new home. There are several ways to do away with your unwanted things. Sell, donate, dispose of items depending on their value and degree of use.

Take inventory of your belongings

An organized packing process requires taking stock of things to pack. Create a list of all your possessions and sort everything in your home according to their required packing methods. Taking inventory of your belongings before packing simplifies the process and keeps track of your valuables.

Pack the infrequently used items

Start packing the rarely used rooms like garage, basement, attic, and belongings, including holiday decorations, off-season clothing, or spare tools and equipment. Pack stuff lying in storage, books, décor, artworks, shoes, jewelry, and all items not required during or immediately after the move. Do not forget to tape and label all the boxes carefully to make them easily identifiable later. 

Pack the essential items

Categorize and pack the remaining items, and label them in detail. You should write "Open First" on boxes with belongings needed immediately after moving. Do not forget to pack separate suitcases for all members of your household. Each suitcase should contain a few pieces of clothing and daily use items that will not go with the movers. Packing one room at a time is essential to remain organized and helps during unloading and unpacking. When finished, check to ensure everything is packed, sealed, and labeled.

Useful packing tips

You should:

  • Designate a packing area

  • Avoid filling boxes till the top

  • Pack similar items together

  • Use plastic Ziploc bags for spillable items

  • Keep all the valuable and essential documents in one place

  • Pack fragile items individually and separately, and mark the boxes with "Handle With Care" labels

  • Take photos of the electronic set-up before disassembling and packing

  • Create proper padding before putting objects inside boxes

  • Do not remove items from drawers and containers

  • Spread the weight evenly

  • Finish your packing well in advance of your moving day

Do you want a hassle-free move?

The best way to avoid relocation stress is by hiring a moving company. Professionals will capably pack all your belongings and ensure they reach your new home damage-free.  


Aardvark Movers Inc. is a reliable name whether you need packing services, piano moving, or load or unload services. Call today to learn more about our hourly moving rates.