Table of Contents

Key Points

  • How well you prepare for a move can largely determine how smooth (or chaotic) it goes.
  • Moving takes a lot of work and planning, including the momentous chore of packing.
  • Having some proven strategies and tricks for packing can help you be more prepared for the big day and ensure your belongings get transported safely and securely. 

Did you know that, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, between 12 and 14 percent of the population moves every year.1 That is a lot of packed boxes! Moving to a new home can feel overwhelming, but with the right strategy, you can transform the chaos into an organized, efficient process.

At Smith Dray Line, we have helped thousands of families navigate successful moves. Through years of experience, we have identified the most effective strategies for how to pack for moving that will save you time, protect your belongings, and make unpacking a breeze. These 10 tips will help you pack smarter, faster, and with less stress.

1. Start Early and Create a Timeline

How long before moving day should I start packing? The answer depends on your household size, but generally, you should begin the packing process six to eight weeks out. Here are some general milestones to keep in mind:

  • 8 weeks before: Start decluttering and begin packing non-essential items like seasonal decorations, books, and rarely used kitchen appliances.
  • 6 weeks before: Continue packing items you will not need in the interim, such as artwork, extra linens, and out-of-season clothing.
  • 4 weeks before: Pack most of your belongings, leaving only essentials for daily life.
  • 2 weeks before: Pack everything except absolute necessities for the final two weeks
  • Moving week: Pack remaining essentials and prepare your survival kit for the first few days in your new home.

Starting early is one of the most crucial packing tips for moving because it prevents the last-minute rush that often leads to damaged items and forgotten belongings.

2. Develop a Room-by-Room Plan

Learning how to strategically pack for a move involves understanding which rooms to tackle first and which require special attention.

  • Start with these rooms:
    • Guest rooms and formal dining rooms (least used spaces)
    • Basements, attics, and storage areas
    • Home offices (except daily-use items)
    • Living rooms (excluding frequently used entertainment equipment)
  • Save these rooms for last:
    • Kitchen (daily cooking necessities)
    • Master bedroom and children’s bedrooms
    • Main bathrooms
    • Laundry room

What is the hardest room to pack when moving? 

Most moving professionals agree it is the kitchen, since they contain fragile items, irregularly shaped objects, and appliances that require special care. The sheer variety of things to pack—from delicate glassware to heavy cast iron pans—makes kitchen packing particularly challenging.

3. Master the Art of Box Selection and Preparation

Do movers prefer boxes or bags? Professional movers overwhelmingly prefer boxes because they:

  • Stack efficiently in moving trucks
  • Provide better protection for your belongings
  • Are easier to label and organize
  • Maintain their shape under weight

Choose the right box sizes:

  • Small boxes (1.5 cubic feet): Books, CDs, canned goods, small electronics
  • Medium boxes (3 cubic feet): Kitchen items, toys, small appliances
  • Large boxes (4.5+ cubic feet): Lightweight items like pillows, blankets, lampshades
  • Specialty boxes: Wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes and dish packs for fragile items

Box preparation essentials:

  • Reinforce the bottom with quality packing tape in an “H” pattern.
  • Use newspaper or packing paper to fill empty spaces.
  • Never exceed 50 pounds per box for safe lifting.
  • Write contents and destination room on multiple sides of each box.

4. Implement the “Essential Box” Strategy

When learning how to move efficiently, create an “essential box” for each family member containing items needed for the first 24 to 48 hours. This might include:

  • Change of clothes for 2-3 days
  • Toiletries and medications
  • Important documents (copies)
  • Phone chargers and basic electronics 
  • Snacks and water bottles
  • Basic tools for immediate needs
  • Comfort items for children and pets

Label these boxes clearly and load them last so they are first off the truck.

5. Perfect Your Fragile Item Packing Technique

Protecting delicate items requires specific packing strategies:

For dishes and glassware:

  • Wrap each item individually in packing paper
  • Use dish-specific boxes with cardboard dividers
  • Pack plates vertically like records, not flat
  • Fill empty spaces with crumpled paper • Mark boxes “FRAGILE” and “THIS SIDE UP”

For electronics:

  • Use original boxes when available
  • Wrap cords separately and label them 
  • Take photos of cable connections before disconnecting
  • Use anti-static bubble wrap for sensitive components
  • Pack laptops and tablets in padded cases

6. Optimize Your Clothing Packing Methods

Clothing represents a significant portion of most household moves. These how to pack for a move techniques will maximize space:

  • Wardrobe boxes for hanging items:
    • Transfer clothes directly from the closet to a box on hangers
    • Ideal for delicate fabrics, suits, and dresses
    • Saves time during unpacking
  • Vacuum-sealed bags for bulky items:
    • Perfect for comforters, pillows, and winter coats
    • Reduces volume by up to 75 percent
    • Protects against moisture and pests
  • Suitcases for heavy items:
    • Use rolling suitcases for books and heavy objects 
    • Take advantage of wheels for easier transport
    • Pack a week’s worth of clothes in suitcases for immediate access

7. Create a Comprehensive Labeling System

Effective labeling is crucial for packing moving tips success:

  • Color-coding system: Assign each room a color and use colored tape or stickers
  • Detailed descriptions: Write the contents and destination room on all sides
  • Priority levels: Use stars or numbers to indicate unpacking priority 
  • Fragile indicators: Use red tape or “FRAGILE” stamps for delicate items
  • Inventory sheets: Keep a master list of box contents for valuable items

8. Utilize Space-Saving Techniques

Get the most out of every inch of packing space with these efficient methods:

  • Fill hollow items:
    • Pack socks and underwear inside shoes
    • Use pots and pans to hold kitchen utensils
    • Store small items inside larger appliances (after cleaning)
  • Minimize air space:
    • Use clothing and towels as padding around fragile items
    • Pack items tightly to prevent shifting during transport
    • Fill gaps with packing paper or bubble wrap
  • Think creatively:
    • Use laundry baskets and storage bins as packing containers 
    • Pack books in suitcases with wheels
    • Use trash bags for non-fragile items like pillows and stuffed animals

9. Handle Special Items with Extra Care

Some belongings require specialized packing tips for moving:

  • Important documents:
    • Create copies and store originals in a fireproof box you carry personally
    • Include birth certificates, passports, insurance policies, and medical records
    • Take photos of important documents as digital backups
  • Valuable items:
    • Pack jewelry in small boxes with plenty of padding
    • Use original cases for musical instruments
    • Consider professional packing for antiques and artwork
    • Keep valuable items with you during the move
  • Plants and perishables:

10. Prepare for Moving Day Success

The final phase of efficient packing focuses on moving day preparation:

  • Create a moving day kit:
    • Basic tools (screwdriver, hammer, box cutter)
    • Cleaning supplies for last-minute touch-ups
    • First aid kit and any necessary medications
    • Cash for tips and unexpected expenses
    • Important phone numbers and documents
  • Final walkthrough checklist:
    • Check all closets, cabinets, and storage areas
    • Confirm utility disconnection and connection dates
    • Prepare cleaning supplies for move-out cleaning
    • Set aside payment and tip money for your moving crew
  • Communication with your moving team:
    • Provide clear directions to both locations 
    • Point out fragile items and special instructions
    • Stay available for questions throughout the day
    • Keep inventory lists accessible for verification

Learn More About Efficient Packing and Other Moving Tips

Efficient packing is the foundation of a successful move. By starting early, organizing strategically, and using proper techniques, you can transform what often feels like an overwhelming task into a manageable process. Remember that “How to pack for a move?” isn’t just about getting items from point A to point B—it involves protecting your belongings, saving time, and reducing stress during one of life’s major transitions. By implementing these ten essential tips, you will be well-equipped to tackle your next move with confidence.

At Smith Dray Line, we understand that every move is unique. The key to success lies in planning, organization, and attention to detail. Contact us today to learn more about move planning or to schedule service.

References

  1. Kristin Kerns-D’Amore, “Change in Marital Status Became More Common Reason for Moving from 2021 to 2022, Housing/Neighborhood Improvement Reasons Declined,” U.S. Census Bureau, September 2023, https://www.census.gov/library/stories/2023/09/why-people-move.html.
  2. Amy Grant, “Moving Plants Across State Lines: Can You Transport Plants Over State Borders?” Gardening Know How.com, April 2022, https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/moving-plants-across-state-lines.htm.