Packing for a move can feel overwhelming, especially when you don’t know where to start. The key to a stress-free move lies in planning and prioritizing your packing process. Knowing what to pack first not only saves time but also reduces chaos as moving day approaches. From seasonal items to daily essentials, having a clear strategy can make a significant difference. This guide breaks down the packing process into manageable steps, helping you stay organized and efficient. Whether you’re tackling a small apartment or a large family home, these tips will set you on the path to success.

Focus on Things You Don’t Use Very Often

Start by packing things that you don’t use daily. This might include:

  • Seasonal Items:Pack away off-season clothing, holiday decorations, and equipment like skis or beach umbrellas.
  • Special Occasions: Dinnerware kept just for holidays, party clothes and other seldom-used items can be packed up well in advance, too.
  • Books and Collectibles: Items like these are seldom crucial to your everyday living, which makes them one of the first things to pack.

Addressing these items first creates space and provides momentum to tackle other areas.

Declutter as You Go

But before you box up each category, take the opportunity to declutter. Determine what to hold on to and what to donate or toss out. This will leave you feeling less burdened and with fewer belongings to unpack in your new house. Ask yourself this common question: “Have I used this in the past year?” If the answer is no, perhaps it’s time to release it.

Pack Storage Areas

Storage spaces such as basements, attics and garages typically store items that aren’t used regularly. Address these spaces sooner rather than later, sorting and organizing along the way. Label boxes clearly—especially if they contain tools or seasonal items. You will want to use a strong box and padding to protect delicate or heavy items stored there in these places.

Non-Essential Rooms

Once you’re done with storage spaces, start packing non-essential rooms like guest bedrooms, dining rooms, and formal living spaces. Often, these areas hold things like extra bedding, decorative things, and furniture that you don’t use often. Packing these rooms ahead of time will prevent you from disrupting daily life when moving day approaches.

Prepare a “First Night” Box

While packing, set aside a box of essentials for your first night in your new home. This box should include:

  • Toiletries
  • Basic kitchen supplies (plates, utensils, snacks)
  • A change of clothes
  • Important documents
  • Chargers for electronics
  • Any medications or first-aid supplies

Medications or first-aid supplies

Clearly label this box and have it easily accessible. These essentials will make your first night in your new home much more comfortable.

Kitchen and Daily Essentials

Save often-used goods, like kitchen supplies and toiletries, until the end. As moving day gets closer, pack these items gradually, keeping what you’ll need until the end. Use small boxes to pack heavy objects such as dishes, and fill fragile objects with bubble wrap or towels for protection.

Use a Packing Timeline

To stay on track, create a timeline or schedule. For example:

4-6 weeks before moving: Pack rarely used items and start with storage spaces.

2-4 weeks before moving: Focus on non-essential rooms and seasonal items.

1 week before moving: Begin packing daily essentials and preparing your “First Night” box.

Moving day: Pack any remaining essentials and ensure all boxes are labeled correctly.

This timeline helps you break the process into manageable chunks, avoiding last-minute chaos.

Label and Organize

Mark all boxes with their contents and the room they belong to. For added organization, use colored tape or stickers: blue for the kitchen, green for the living room, etc. This makes moving easier when it comes time to unpack and helps the movers know where each box should go.

Pack Smartly

Make the most of your box space by packing strategically. For instance:

  • Use soft items like towels or clothing to cushion fragile items.
  • Place heavier items at the bottom of the box and lighter items on top.
  • Avoid overpacking boxes to prevent them from becoming too heavy to lift.

Investing in quality packing materials, such as sturdy boxes and packing tape, will also help protect your belongings during the move.

Final Thoughts

Read More Packing Plan Helps you pack efficiently. It all starts with a plan. By packing up your least-used items first, decluttering as you tackle each room and deferring day-to-day essentials until last, you’ll take some of the stress out of moving day. Preparation is critical for a smooth transition into your new home, so keep that in mind. However, if everything seems too much, you can always hire professional movers to help.

Need Help With Professional Packing?

If packing seems like too much, have Joey’s Movers handle their superior packing for you. Our Chicago moving company provides moving and packing in Chicago and nearby areas to make your relocation as painless as we can. We can help you have a tension-free relocation!