Packing is the most time-consuming part of any move, but it doesn't have to be the most stressful. Professional movers follow a systematic approach that protects your belongings and makes unpacking at your new home efficient and organized.
Essential Packing Supplies
Before you start, gather these supplies: sturdy moving boxes (small, medium, large), packing paper (not newspaper — the ink transfers), bubble wrap, packing tape and dispenser, permanent markers, and color-coded labels or stickers.
Pro tip: Don't skimp on box quality. Flimsy boxes collapse under weight and during stacking in the truck. Professional-grade boxes cost a few dollars more but save hundreds in potential damage.
The Kitchen
The kitchen is the hardest room to pack, so start here first — ideally 2–3 weeks before moving day.
Dishes and glasses: Wrap each piece individually in packing paper. Place plates vertically (like records) in small boxes — they're less likely to break this way. Stuff glasses with paper and wrap the outside. Never stack glasses inside each other.
Appliances: Keep original boxes if you have them. Otherwise, wrap in bubble wrap and pack in appropriately sized boxes. Drain and dry any appliance that uses water.
Pantry: Discard anything expired or half-used. Seal open containers in zip-lock bags. Pack spices and oils upright in small boxes.
The Bedroom
Clothing: Leave hanging clothes on hangers and use wardrobe boxes. For folded clothes, you can leave them in dresser drawers — just wrap the dresser in moving blankets.
Mattress: Use a mattress bag to protect against dirt, moisture, and tears. They cost $10–$20 and are worth every penny.
Jewelry and valuables: Pack these separately and keep them with you during the move. Never put them on the truck.
The Living Room
Electronics: Photograph the back of your TV and entertainment center before disconnecting cables. Use original boxes when possible. If not, wrap screens in moving blankets and transport upright.
Books: Use small boxes only. A large box full of books can weigh 70+ pounds and is nearly impossible to carry safely.
Artwork and mirrors: Use specialty picture boxes or create custom cardboard corners. Always transport artwork upright, never flat.
The Bathroom
Medications: Pack in a clearly labeled bag and keep with you. Temperature-sensitive medications should never go on the truck.
Liquids: Place bottles in zip-lock bags to prevent leaks. Pack upright in small boxes with paper between them.
The Home Office
Documents: Use file boxes to keep papers organized. Shred anything you don't need — this is a great time to purge old records.
Computer equipment: Back up all data before packing. Use anti-static bubble wrap for electronics.
General Packing Rules
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