Smart, Stress‑Saving Packing: Practical Tips for an Organized Move
Packing well is the fastest way to cut stress, prevent damage, and make unpacking effortless. This client-friendly guide from 24 Hour Movers shows exactly what to do, when to do it, and how to pack each space so move day runs on time and on budget.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Start Early, Start Right | Create a master packing plan by room with deadlines, then block time in your calendar and stick to it. Begin with low-use areas (guest room, storage, seasonal items) and leave daily essentials for last. Build a “Do Not Pack” zone for items that travel with you personally (documents, medications, keys, chargers). |
| Get the Right Supplies | Stock varied box sizes, heavy-duty tape, packing paper, bubble wrap, stretch wrap, markers, and zip bags. Add specialty options as needed: wardrobe boxes, dish-barrel boxes, mirror/TV cartons, and furniture pads. Prep protection: corner guards for art/mirrors, mattress bags, and sealable bins for garage and shed items. |
| Labeling That Actually Works | Use a three-part label on every box: Room, Contents, Priority (High/Med/Low). Apply color tape per room and place labels on two sides plus the top for quick scanning. Number each box and keep a simple inventory list; snap a photo of open boxes before sealing. |
| Pro Packing Principles | Heavier items go in smaller boxes; lighter, bulky items go in larger boxes. Pad the bottom, fill voids, and top off each box to prevent crushing or shifting in transit. Never mix rooms in one box; pack and label strictly by room to speed unloading and setup. |
| Kitchen: Damage-Proof Strategy | Wrap plates vertically like records; cushion bowls and glasses individually and stack with paper between. Use cell kits for stemware; keep knife blades in blade guards or wrapped cardboard sleeves. Bag and tape appliance cords to the unit; pack small appliances in original boxes when possible. |
| Living Areas: Art, TVs, and Decor | Use a dedicated TV carton; remove TV stands, wrap the screen, and pack remotes/cables in a labeled bag. Protect frames and mirrors with corner guards and picture boxes; mark “Fragile – Glass.” Roll rugs with the pile inward; secure with stretch wrap, then bag to keep clean. |
| Bedroom: Clothing and Bedding | Load hanging clothes into wardrobe boxes; place shoes in the bottom, toes covered to avoid scuffs. Bag mattresses and box springs; keep hardware for beds in a zip bag taped to the bed frame. Pack a personal “first-night” suitcase with outfits, toiletries, and sleep essentials. |
| Bathroom and Laundry | Tape lids and place liquids in sealable bags; line boxes with a trash bag to catch leaks. Towel sets double as padding for fragile items; label so you can find them quickly on arrival. Empty and clean appliances; disconnect hoses and allow washers to drain fully before moving. |
| Home Office and Electronics | Photograph cable setups, then color-tag cords and ports for easy reassembly. Use original device boxes or double-box with ample padding; keep external drives and critical docs with you. Purge paper, then file or scan what remains; pack folders upright in file boxes. |
| Garage, Tools, and Outdoor Gear | Empty fuel from mowers and tools; cover sharp edges with cardboard and tape. Use sturdy totes for heavy hardware; avoid overloading single boxes with dense items. Clean and disassemble grills; never pack propane tanks or lighter fluid on the moving truck. |
| Safe Weight and Seal | Target 35–45 lb per box max; if in doubt, split into two boxes. Use the “H-tape” method: tape seam and edges on the top and bottom for structural strength. Shake test: a properly packed box shouldn’t rattle or collapse when gently pressed. |
| Essentials Box (Open First) | Pack one per key room: basic cookware, a few place settings, paper goods, cleaning supplies, tools, and bulbs. Add multi-outlet power strips, chargers, shower curtain, bedding, pajamas, and pet supplies. Keep important documents, medications, small electronics, jewelry, and keys with you. |
| What Not to Pack on the Truck | Never load hazardous items: paints, solvents, propane, gasoline, bleach/ammonia, aerosols, fireworks. Avoid perishables and open food; transport houseplants and alcohol personally where permitted. Carry irreplaceables yourself: passports, cash, heirlooms, hard drives, and daily medical devices. |
| Speed Boosters for Move Day | Stage boxes by room near exits; keep hallways and stairs clear. Pre-assemble bed hardware and tools in a labeled “Setup” kit. Reserve elevators/parking, and place door/floor protection before the crew arrives. |
| Optional Help from 24 Hour Movers | Full or partial packing: pros handle kitchens, closets, decor, or the entire home as you prefer. Custom crating: art, glass, antiques, and high-value items get made-to-fit protection. Unpacking and setup: room-to-room placement, debris removal, and priority areas ready day one. |
Ready to make packing the easiest part of your move? Share your timeline and home size, and 24 Hour Movers will tailor a packing plan, supply checklist, and service options that fit your budget and schedule.
