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Moving is exciting—until it isn’t. If you’ve ever looked at your pile of stuff and thought, Where do I even start or how to pack for a move? You’re not alone.
Moving can feel overwhelming, but trust me, with a little planning and the right strategies, it doesn’t have to be. Here are the best packing tips for moving to help you stay organized, keep your cool, and make your move as smooth as possible.
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Why Moving Feels Overwhelming (and How to Fix It)
Let’s face it—packing up your life and relocating is a big deal.
You’re worried about forgetting something, breaking valuables, or feeling unprepared when the big day arrives. I’ve been there, and I get it.
The good news? A little planning goes a long way.
Below are 20 tried-and-true moving ideas for packing that will help you stay organized on moving day without losing your mind.
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The Best Packing Tips for Moving in 2025
1. Start Packing Earlier Than You Think You Need To
When I moved last summer, I thought two weeks was plenty of time to pack. Spoiler: It wasn’t. Start at least three to four weeks early, beginning with things you don’t use daily—like off-season clothes or holiday decorations.
2. Declutter Before You Pack
Moving is the perfect excuse to get rid of things you don’t need. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later when there are fewer moving boxes to carry. I once sold old furniture and clothes on Facebook Marketplace and made enough to cover my moving supplies.
3. Make a Moving Binder (or Use a Shared Digital Folder)
Keep everything—from receipts and contracts to checklists and contact info—in one place. A physical binder or a digital folder works equally well. Staying organized will save you from last-minute scrambles.
4. Gather Packing Supplies Early
Running out of moving boxes or tape mid-pack is the worst. Stock up on:
- Sturdy boxes in multiple sizes.
- Packing tape (don’t skimp—cheap tape is a nightmare).
- Bubble wrap for fragile items.
- Permanent markers for labeling.
- Stretch wrap for furniture protection.
Pro Tip: Check with local stores for free packing boxes, or invest in reusable bins for an eco-friendly option.
✅The Right Way to Pack a Box before Moving →
5. Pack Room by Room
Concentrate on packing one room at a time to stay focused. Start with the least-used rooms, like the guest bedroom or storage closet, and leave everyday items for last.
6. Label Boxes Like a Pro
Label each packed box with what’s inside and which room it’s for (e.g., kitchen: cookware). I once used color-coded stickers for each room—it made unpacking a breeze.
7. Protect Fragile Items
Wrap dishes, glassware, and other breakables individually with bubble wrap or packing paper. Got extra towels or blankets? Use them for padding to save on supplies.
8. Snap Photos Before Disconnecting Electronics
Before you start unplugging your TV or gaming system, take a picture of the cable setup. It’ll save you hours of frustration when you’re setting it up again.
✅How to Move a Refrigerator →
9. Use Suitcases for Packing Heavy Items
Why lug heavy boxes when you can roll them? Pack books and other dense items in rolling suitcases to save your back (and sanity).
10. Keep Essentials Handy
Pack a “first-night” box with everything you’ll need right away, like toiletries, toilet paper, a change of clothes, and phone chargers. After a tiring day, you wouldn’t want to dig through boxes to find toilet paper.
11. Lighten the Load with Smart Packing
Pack small items inside bigger ones to save space. For example, I stuffed socks into shoes and utensils into Tupperware to save room.
12. Prep Your Furniture
Disassemble furniture—what you can (beds, tables)—and keep screws and small parts in labeled Ziploc bags. Tape the bags to the furniture so you don’t lose them.
13. Pack Seasonal Items Early
If it’s summer, pack up your winter coats, boots, and holiday decorations first. The less you use it now, the sooner it can go into a box.
14. Notify Utilities and Change Your Address
Don’t wait until the last minute to update your address with banks, subscriptions, and the post office. And remember to schedule utility shutoffs and setups in advance.
15. Ask for Help (and Offer Pizza)
Whether it’s friends, family, or professional movers, don’t try to do it all alone. The last time I moved, I bribed my friends with pizza and drinks—it worked like a charm.
16. Take Extra Care while Packing Fragile Electronics
If you still have the original boxes for your TV, speaker, or gaming console, use them! If not, wrap them with bubble wrap for extra padding and label the boxes as Fragile, or handle with care!
17. Protect Your Floors and Walls
Moving bulky items like couches? Lay down floor protectors or old towels to prevent scuffs. I once accidentally dented a wall—it wasn’t fun explaining that to my landlord.
18. Safe Moving Plan for Pets and Plants
On moving day, keep pets in a calm, safe space—like a friend’s house or a quiet room. For plants, pack them in open boxes to prevent spills and damage.
19. Budget for Unexpected Moving Costs
Moving always costs more than you think. Plan for extra expenses like gas, snacks, or last-minute supplies. A little buffer will help reduce stress.
20. Celebrate the Milestone
Once you’ve moved in, take a moment to breathe and celebrate a little! Unpacking can wait for a day. I like to order takeout, open a bottle of wine, and enjoy– the fresh start.
FAQs About Packing Tips for Moving
Q1. How to Pack for Shifting House?
When shifting houses, the focus should be on organizing by room. Begin with decluttering—donate, sell, or discard items you don’t need.
Use proper packing materials, like wardrobe boxes for clothes and dish packs for fragile items. Secure furniture and appliances with stretch wrap or blankets to prevent damage during transit. Pack items you’ll need first, such as bedding or kitchen essentials, in clearly marked “priority” boxes.
Lastly, keep all essential documents in a safe, easily accessible folder throughout the moving process.
Q2. How early should I start packing?
Ideally, start packing 3–4 weeks before your move. Begin with items you rarely use and work your way toward daily essentials.
Q3. What’s the safest way to pack fragile items?
Wrap each piece individually with bubble wrap or towels. Pack them snugly to avoid shifting during transit in the moving truck. Label the box “Fragile” for extra safety and care.
Q4. Should I hire professional movers?
Yes, consider moving companies if you’re moving long-distance or have a lot of heavy furniture. It’ll save you time and effort. For small, local moves, a DIY approach with friends might be enough.
