Packing is one of the most time-consuming and challenging parts of moving. Knowing what to pack first and what to save for last can make the process much more efficient and less stressful. Packing strategically ensures that your essentials are accessible when needed, and fragile or seasonal items are properly protected.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best packing order, highlight which items to prioritize early on, and reveal what to leave until the final days before your move. Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, following these tips will help you stay organized and prepared.
If you want expert assistance with your move, Big Bear Movers offers professional packing and moving services to make your transition smooth and hassle-free.
Why Packing Order Matters
The way you pack can impact your entire moving experience. Packing too much too early may leave you scrambling for daily necessities, while leaving important items until the last minute can cause unnecessary stress.
A well-planned packing timeline helps you maintain control over your belongings, protects fragile items, and ensures everything is ready when the movers arrive.
What to Pack First: Getting Started Early
Seasonal and Non-Essential Items
Start packing items that you won’t need in your daily life during the weeks leading up to your move. Seasonal clothing, such as winter coats in summer or swimwear in winter, is a good place to begin. This also applies to seasonal décor, like holiday decorations, which can be packed months in advance.
Packing these non-essential items early clears space and mental clutter and helps you gauge how many boxes and packing supplies you’ll need.
Books, Collectibles, and Memorabilia
Books and personal collections often take up significant space. Since they are rarely used daily, these can be packed early. Make sure to pack them in sturdy boxes as they can be heavy.
Photographs, souvenirs, and keepsakes also fall into this category. Use protective materials like bubble wrap for fragile items, and label boxes clearly.
Extra Linens, Towels, and Bedding
Spare bedding, towels, and linens are perfect for early packing. You won’t need these daily if you keep out what you currently use.
Packing linens early also provides cushioning for fragile items during transport. For example, you can wrap glassware or ceramics in towels or linens instead of bubble wrap.
Kitchen Items You Use Infrequently
Begin with kitchen gadgets, appliances, or cookware that you rarely use. Specialty baking tools, seasonal dishes, or extra sets of dishes and glassware can be packed weeks in advance.
Leave out the essentials like your everyday dishes, utensils, and appliances you use daily.
Decorations and Artwork
Wall art, framed photos, mirrors, and decorations can be packed early with proper padding. Use specialized boxes or protective materials to avoid damage.
Take down curtains or drapes you don’t need to use and pack them safely.
What to Pack Next: Organizing the Middle Phase
Clothing Not Needed for Daily Wear
As moving day approaches, pack more clothing items that you won’t wear immediately. This might include formal wear, business attire if you’re off work for a few days, or clothes for upcoming seasons.
Organize clothing by type and season to make unpacking easier.
Extra Toiletries and Cleaning Supplies
If you have multiples of certain toiletries or cleaning supplies, start packing those that you won’t need before the move.
Remember to keep travel-sized essentials and daily-use products accessible until the last minute.
Books, DVDs, and Media
If you didn’t pack all your books and media earlier, pack the remaining ones during this phase. Use smaller boxes to manage the weight and avoid damage.
What to Leave Until the End: Packing Last-Minute Essentials
Everyday Clothing and Shoes
Keep your daily wear accessible until the last days before your move. Pack only the clothing you will need for the last week or so.
Consider packing a separate suitcase or bag with clothes for a few days after the move, especially if you won’t unpack immediately.
Essential Kitchen Items
Leave out basic kitchen tools, dishes, and utensils you will need for cooking meals in the final days. This includes a few plates, cups, a pot or pan, and cutlery.
Plan to use disposable plates or eat out to minimize what you need to pack last-minute.
Personal Care Items and Medications
Keep essential toiletries, medications, and first-aid supplies handy until the last moment. This ensures you have access to what you need without rummaging through packed boxes.
Important Documents and Valuables
Documents such as passports, birth certificates, insurance papers, and financial records should never be packed too early or put with other belongings. Keep these in a safe, accessible place and transport them personally.
Valuables like jewelry, heirlooms, or cash should also be kept with you until you arrive at your new home.
Electronics and Chargers
Pack electronics such as computers, TVs, and gaming consoles only when you’re ready to move. Keep chargers and accessories accessible.
If you rely on your devices for work or communication, plan carefully so you can disconnect at the right time.
Bedding and Linens for the Last Night
Keep bedding and towels for your final night in your current home and the first night in your new one accessible. Pack these items last to avoid sleeping on the floor or being without essentials.
Cleaning Supplies and Trash Bags
Cleaning is usually done after most packing is complete. Keep your cleaning supplies available until the very end so you can tidy your old home before handing over the keys.
Trash bags are also essential for last-minute decluttering or packing small disposables.
Packing Tips for a Smooth Moving Day
Label Boxes Clearly
As you pack, label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. This will make unpacking much easier and help movers place boxes in the correct rooms.
Use Quality Packing Materials
Invest in sturdy boxes, quality tape, and protective materials such as bubble wrap or packing paper. This protects your belongings and prevents damage.
Pack a “First Night” Box
Prepare a box or suitcase with all the essentials you will need immediately upon arrival. Include toiletries, a change of clothes, chargers, basic kitchen items, and any important documents.
This box should travel with you, not the moving truck.
Get Professional Packing Help if Needed
If you’re short on time or want to ensure your belongings are packed safely and efficiently, consider hiring professional packers. Companies like Big Bear Movers offer packing services that can save you time and reduce stress.
Conclusion
Knowing what to pack first and what to leave until the end is key to an organized, stress-free move. Starting with non-essential and seasonal items early, then progressing to daily-use belongings, allows you to maintain normalcy while preparing.
Leaving essential items like everyday clothing, toiletries, electronics, and important documents for last ensures you have everything you need up to moving day and immediately after.
If you’re planning a move, consider trusting Big Bear Movers to assist you with expert packing and moving services. Our experienced team is dedicated to making your move smooth and successful from start to finish.