Moving can be stressful especially when you’re unsure where to start. Packing is often the biggest task, but it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming.
With a clear plan, you can make your move smoother and more organized. Here’s a simple guide on what to pack first when moving.
Start with the Items You Rarely Use
Begin by packing things you don’t need daily. These could include:
- Seasonal clothing: Pack winter coats and boots if you’re moving in summer or vice versa.
- Holiday decorations: Christmas lights, Halloween props or any other festive items can be boxed early.
- Extra bedding and linens: Keep only what you’ll use until the move and pack the rest.
Pack Decorative Items
Wall art, photo frames, vases and other decorative pieces should be packed next. These items add beauty to your home but aren’t essential for daily living. Wrap them carefully to prevent any damage during transit.
Organize Books & Media
Books, DVDs and CDs are heavy or take up space. Pack them in small, sturdy boxes to avoid straining your back. Group similar items together to make unpacking easier.
Sort through Storage Areas
Go through your attic, basement, garage or storage closets early in the packing process. These areas often hold items you don’t use regularly, such as tools, sports equipment or old keepsakes.
Declutter as you pack—donate or toss what you no longer need.
Pack Out-of-Season Kitchen Items
Kitchen packing can be tricky but you don’t need every gadget until moving day. Pack things like:
- Extra dishes and utensils
- Specialty appliances (waffle makers, mixers, etc.)
- Cookware you rarely use (holiday platters, baking pans)
Prepare the Kids’ & Pets’ Items Early
If you have children or pets, pack the toys, games and items they don’t use daily. Leave a few favorites out for comfort but get the bulk packed early to avoid last-minute stress.
Tackle Clothing and Shoes
Pack clothes you won’t wear before the move, like formal wear or clothes from the opposite season. Use suitcases, garment bags or vacuum-seal bags to save space.
Gather Important Documents
Create a safe, accessible place for essential documents like:
- Passports
- Birth certificates
- Medical records
- Insurance policies
Pack these items in a clearly labeled folder or box and keep them with you during the move.
Label Everything
As you pack, label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. This makes unpacking much easier and ensures you can find what you need without opening every box.
Create an Essentials Box
Lastly, pack a box with the items you’ll need immediately after moving. This might include:
- Toiletries
- A few changes of clothes
- Chargers
- Snacks and basic kitchen supplies
Nutshell
Starting with the items you rarely use and working towards the daily essentials will help you pack efficiently. Take it step by step, label everything and don’t forget to declutter as you go. Moving can be a challenge but with a little organization, and taking a help from an expert moving company, can also be an opportunity for a fresh start.
