Why Packing Is Always the Hardest Part
Ask anyone who has moved before, and most will say the same thing — packing is the worst part. You think it will be simple, just putting things in boxes. But then you start, and suddenly it feels endless. The kitchen alone can take days. Every glass needs to be wrapped, every plate padded, and the drawers seem to never end. The garage and basement are even worse. That is why so many people dread packing more than the move itself. But the good news is, with the right tips and a little strategy, packing can be much easier than you think.
Start Early (Earlier Than You Think)
One of the biggest mistakes people make is waiting until the last minute. Packing always takes longer than expected. Start with the rooms you use the least — the spare bedroom, storage areas, or seasonal closets. Getting those out of the way first gives you momentum and keeps the final week before moving day less stressful. Even packing just one box a day adds up quickly. By the time moving day arrives, you will be ready instead of scrambling.
Declutter Before You Pack
Every move is a chance to start fresh. Do not pay to move things you do not use. Go through each room and decide what to keep, donate, or toss. That old lamp you have not turned on in years? Donate it. The box of clothes you never wear? Give it away. Not only does decluttering save space, but it also saves money. The fewer boxes you have, the faster and cheaper your move will be. Plus, starting your new place without unnecessary clutter feels amazing.
Use the Right Supplies
Not all boxes are created equal. Grocery store boxes and old cartons can collapse under weight. Professional movers use sturdy boxes that are designed for moving. Invest in strong boxes, quality tape, and plenty of bubble wrap or packing paper. Do not forget specialty supplies like wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes or dish boxes with dividers for glassware. It may seem like an extra cost, but it protects your belongings and makes stacking in the truck safer.
Pack Room by Room
Instead of scattering your packing across the house, go one room at a time. This keeps things organized and makes unpacking much easier. Label each box clearly with both the room and a short list of contents. “Kitchen – Pots and Pans” is much more useful than just “Kitchen.” When you arrive at your new place, you will know exactly where each box belongs.
Protect Fragile Items the Right Way
We see it all the time — people think wrapping fragile items in towels or newspaper is enough. Sometimes it works, but often it does not. Plates and glasses need real cushioning. Wrap each piece individually, use bubble wrap or packing paper, and fill any empty spaces in the box with soft materials so nothing shifts. Mark those boxes as “Fragile” so movers know to handle them carefully. The extra effort is worth it when your dishes and glassware arrive safely.
Keep Heavy Items in Small Boxes
It is tempting to put all your books in one large box. The problem? No one can lift it without risking injury. A good rule of thumb is simple: heavy items go in small boxes, light items in big ones. Pack books, canned goods, or small appliances in smaller boxes that are easier to carry. Save the large boxes for bedding, pillows, and lighter items. It keeps the move safer and faster.
Use What You Already Have
Not everything needs a box. Suitcases, laundry baskets, and storage bins can all double as moving containers. Fill them with clothes, linens, or lightweight items. It saves money on boxes and makes use of what you already own. Just be sure to secure lids or zippers so nothing spills out during transport.
Pack an Essentials Box
The first night in your new home, the last thing you want is to dig through ten boxes looking for your toothbrush. Pack an essentials box with items you will need right away — toiletries, chargers, medications, snacks, a change of clothes, and important documents. Keep this box with you instead of loading it on the truck. You will thank yourself later.
Don’t Forget Electronics
Electronics can be tricky. Take photos of how cords are connected before unplugging them. Bundle and label cables so you know what goes where. Wrap screens and delicate parts in protective materials. Keep smaller electronics like laptops or tablets with you instead of sending them with the movers. It reduces the risk of damage and gives you peace of mind.
Label Smarter, Not Harder
A black marker works, but color coding works better. Assign a color to each room — blue for kitchen, red for bedroom, green for living room — and put a colored sticker or piece of tape on each box. When you arrive, movers can instantly see where each box belongs. It makes unloading and unpacking much faster.
Real Stories From Packing Gone Wrong
We once helped a family who had tried to pack everything themselves. They used flimsy boxes, overfilled them, and forgot to label most of them. By the time we arrived, the boxes were collapsing, and no one knew what was inside. It took twice as long to sort through it all, and they admitted afterward they wished they had asked us for packing help. On the flip side, another family who used sturdy boxes, labeled everything clearly, and packed room by room had one of the smoothest moves we have ever seen. The difference was night and day.
Why Professional Packing Services Are Worth It
Sometimes, the best way to save time and stress is to let professionals pack for you. At BoxNMove, we offer packing services designed to protect your belongings and make moving day seamless. We bring high-quality supplies, wrap and cushion everything, and label boxes clearly. Whether you want us to pack the entire house or just the fragile items, we can tailor our services to fit your needs. It is one of the easiest ways to make your move less stressful.
Final Thoughts on Packing Smart
Packing does not have to be the nightmare everyone dreads. With the right supplies, some early planning, and a few smart tricks, it can be much easier. And if you do not want the hassle, professional movers like BoxNMove are always ready to step in.
If you are preparing for a move and want expert help with packing or moving, call (647) 961-6263 today. BoxNMove will make sure your belongings are packed safely and your move goes smoothly from start to finish.
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