From deciding what to pack first when moving and what to toss, to organizing dozens of boxes, the process can quickly become chaotic if not properly planned. Fortunately, with a little foresight and the right approach, you can transform the entire experience into a smooth, manageable task.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to start packing for a move, what items should be packed first, useful tips for boxing up your belongings, and a thorough checklist to help you stay organized every step of the way.
Start with a Plan
Before anything goes into a box, you need a plan. Without a plan, it can be challenging to decide what to keep and what not.
- Give yourself 4 to 6 weeks before your move date to begin packing gradually.
- Create a packing timeline, assign specific rooms or categories to each week, and build a checklist so you don’t miss anything.
- The first step is to reduce your load. Go through each room and declutter.
- Divide your items into four categories: keep, donate, sell, and discard. The less you have to move, the easier and cheaper it will be.
Next, stock up on supplies. Invest in strong boxes of various sizes, packing tape, bubble wrap, stretch film, packing paper, markers for labeling, and ziplock bags for hardware or small items. This step might seem obvious, but running out of tape halfway through a box can throw your rhythm off.
What to Pack First When Moving
When it comes to packing, most people aren’t sure where to begin. The answer? Start with the items you use the least.
By packing non-essential items first, you can make steady progress without disrupting your day-to-day life.
Begin With:
- Out-of-season clothes: Winter coats in summer, swimwear in winter
- Decorative items: Wall art, vases, and picture frames
- Books and documents: Children’s books, personal books, and other essential files or folders
- Collectibles and knick-knacks: Ornaments, trinkets, prizes, or statues
- Rarely used kitchenware: Cake stands, party platters, etc.
- Spare linens and towels: Sheets, pillowcases, duvet covers, and more
These belongings are ideal to pack early on, allowing you to maintain functionality in your home while slowly clearing space.
Room-by-Room Packing Breakdown
A methodical, room-by-room approach will keep things organized and manageable. Here’s a breakdown to guide your process:
Living Room
- Books, DVDs, and gaming consoles
- Decorative items and framed photos
- Electronics (label cords and pictures, photos before unplugging)
- Lamps and floor accessories
Kitchen
- Glassware and dishes (use plenty of padding)
- Pantry staples (non-perishables only)
- Small appliances (toaster, blender, etc.)
- Cleaning supplies (leave out a few essentials until the last day)
Bedrooms
- Off-season and folded clothing
- Accessories and footwear
- Extra bedding and linens
- Jewellery, keepsakes, and documents (carry valuables personally)
Bathrooms
- Extra towels and mats
- Unused toiletries
- First aid supplies
- Cleaning products (seal liquids to prevent spills)
Garage and Storage
- Tools and toolboxes
- Sports equipment and outdoor gear
- Holiday decorations
- Paint and chemicals (check with movers, some items may not be transportable)
Packing Tips That Actually Help
Now that you’ve started boxing up your home, here are some time-tested packing tips for moving to make the process easier and more efficient.
- Label clearly: Use bold markers and label each box with its contents and destination room. Consider using colour-coded stickers or tape for faster identification.
- Pack a first-night box: This should include essentials like toothbrushes, toiletries, chargers, pajamas, snacks, water bottles, and a change of clothes.
- Use what you have: Wrap fragile items in towels, clothes, or blankets. Suitcases with wheels are perfect for heavy items like books.
- Don’t overpack boxes: Place heavier items like books in small boxes and lighter items in larger ones to avoid injuries or box breakage.
- Keep hardware together: Store screws and bolts from furniture in labeled ziplock bags and tape them to the respective furniture.
- Protect your valuables: Important documents, jewellery, and electronics should travel with you, not in the moving truck.
The most important thing? Don’t leave packing until the last minute. A rushed move is usually a stressful one.
Let Professionals Lighten the Load
Even with the best plans in place, moving day can be physically and mentally draining. This is where a trusted moving company can be a game-changer.
Easy2Go Movers, a top-rated moving service in Canada, makes the entire experience easier, from packing and loading to transportation and delivery. Whether you’re moving across town or to a new province, we provide flexible, reliable solutions tailored to your needs.
Our team of professionals is trained to handle everything with care, ensuring your items arrive in perfect condition. With modern equipment, spacious trucks, and punctual service, you can trust us with your belongings, big or small.
Why risk injury or waste time with multiple trips when Easy2Go Movers can simplify the process for you?
Conclusion: Make Your Move a Fresh Start
Moving doesn’t have to be a source of anxiety. With smart planning, a structured timeline, and helpful strategies, you can pack up your home with confidence. Start early, focus on less-used items, and tackle one room at a time. Use these packing tips for moving not only to protect your belongings but also to make unpacking quicker and more enjoyable in your new space.
Whether you’re relocating for a new job, upgrading your home, or simply seeking a change of scenery, the moving process should feel like an exciting transition, not a chaotic one. By preparing properly and partnering with a trusted mover like Easy2Go Movers, we ensure your move is the beginning of a bright, new chapter. So pack smart, move smart, and let the journey begin.
FAQs:
Q1: When should I start packing for a move?
Start packing at least 4 to 6 weeks before your move. Begin with items you use rarely and progress toward everyday essentials closer to the move date.
Q2: What room should I pack first when moving?
Start with storage areas and rooms with non-essential items, like guest bedrooms, basements, or the garage.
Q3: What should I never pack in a moving truck?
Avoid packing important documents, valuables (jewellery, heirlooms), perishable food, flammable liquids, or plants. These should travel with you.
Q4: How do I keep track of what’s in each box?
Label each box with its contents and destination room. You can also number boxes and keep a list (physical or digital) of what’s inside each number.
Q5: Should I hire movers or do it myself?
If your move involves heavy lifting, long distances, or tight timelines, hiring a professional mover like Easy2Go Movers is safer, faster, and often more cost-effective in the long run.
