Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
✔ Pack items that are out of season and rarely used first since they won’t be needed before the move.
✔ Remove decorative and non-essential items early to reduce clutter and make packing more manageable.
✔ Start boxing up kitchenware that isn’t part of daily cooking to save time closer to moving day.
✔ Clear out storage spaces and closets early since they often hold items not regularly accessed.
✔ Sort clothing by season and frequency of use, keeping only daily essentials out until the move.
✔ Keep important documents and valuables in a secure, clearly labeled place for easy access.
✔ Prepare a first-night essentials box with toiletries, clothes, and basic items to avoid stress after moving.
Packing is often the biggest challenge when relocating, and statistics prove just how overwhelming it can feel. The most stressful part of moving was packing, according to 34% of respondents. About 36% said it was also the most dreaded part of moving, while 37% said it was the most difficult part. It’s likely one of the most disliked tasks because 43% said it was the most time-consuming aspect of moving. Staying organized and knowing where to begin can make the process feel less daunting.
Here are the essentials on what to pack first when moving apartment.
A Guide to Packing Essentials for Your Apartment Move
Step 1: Pack Off-Season and Rarely Used Items
Packing for a move can feel like a huge task, but one of the best ways to begin is by getting non-essential items out of the way. When planning what to pack first when moving apartment, starting with off-season and rarely used things helps reduce clutter and makes room for progress without disrupting daily life. If unsure what to pack and what to leave until later, Murphy Moving & Storage offers a helpful guide to make the process easier.
Seasonal Items
Items used only during specific times of the year can go into boxes first.
- Heavy Jackets, Snow Boots, Scarves, and Gloves: These bulky items aren’t needed if the weather is warm, and packing them first frees up closet space quickly.
- Swimwear, Beach Towels, Umbrellas, and Coolers: If the move doesn’t fall during beach season, these can be packed and stored without any impact on daily activities.
- String Lights, Wreaths, or Inflatable Decor: Holiday decorations serve no purpose during off-holiday months, so they can be safely wrapped and boxed early.
Rarely Accessed Personal Items
These are meaningful, but don’t play a role in daily routines.
- A Favorite or Currently-Being-Read Book, While the Rest Are Packed: Keep one book accessible for entertainment, while the rest can be sealed in labeled boxes.
- Memory Boxes, Souvenirs, or Old Birthday Cards: These sentimental items are important but not needed until the new home is set up.
- Personal Photo Albums Stored Safely in Boxes: Albums are often rarely opened and should be protected in cushioned boxes to avoid damage during the move.
- Display Items Like Figurines or Special Edition Items: Collectibles are delicate and should be packed with care, using padding and sturdy boxes to avoid breakage.
Extra Household Linens
These extras take up storage space but aren’t used every day.
- Extra Comforters, Blankets, and Pillow Sets: Keep only what’s needed for each bed; the rest can be stored in vacuum-sealed bags or large boxes.
- Towels Not in Daily Use: Most people don’t need more than one or two towels during the move; extras can be cleaned, folded, and packed.
- Guest Sheets and Towels If No Guests Are Expected: If there are no visitors planned before the move, guest bedding can be packed early without concern.
Step 2: Pack Decorative and Non-Essential Items
Decorations make a place feel personal, but they don’t serve any purpose once moving is underway. When deciding what to pack first when moving apartment, decor items are a smart starting point because they are non-essential. Removing them early simplifies the packing process and helps mentally prepare for a change of space.
Wall and Table Decorations
These items contribute to aesthetics but not function.
- Paintings, Posters, and Wall Hangings: Removing wall décor early prevents damage during packing and helps walls stay clean for inspection or painting. Wrapping them in protective materials keeps edges and corners from bending.
- Personal Photos in Frames: These can be wrapped in bubble wrap and placed in flat boxes to keep them secure during transport. It’s best to label them and stand them upright inside the box.
- Rolled-Up Posters Packed in Tubes or Flat Boxes: Posters are prone to tearing or creasing, so storing them in cardboard tubes or folders adds protection and keeps them from getting crushed.
Delicate or Fragile Decor
Fragile pieces should be packed with care to prevent accidents later.
- Glass and Ceramic Vases Wrapped Securely: These should be filled with crumpled paper for internal support and wrapped in layers of bubble wrap to keep them from shattering during the move.
- Candles Packed to Avoid Melting or Damage: Wax candles should be stored away from heat and placed in sturdy boxes with padding to hold their shape and prevent denting or warping.
- Small Decorative Pieces Carefully Boxed: Knick-knacks, sculptures, and souvenirs can be grouped by size and wrapped to avoid chipping or cracking. Use small boxes for these to keep them from shifting.
Step 3: Pack Unused Kitchenware
Kitchens can be overwhelming to pack, so it’s best to begin with items that aren’t part of everyday cooking. Breaking it down into categories helps keep the process manageable and reduces mess.
Special Occasion Items
These are only used occasionally and can be stored well ahead of moving day.
- China Sets, Serving Bowls, and Decorative Platters: Wrap these in packing paper or bubble wrap and label the boxes as fragile for careful handling. Use dish packs or reinforced boxes to prevent shifting during transport, and cushion the bottom of the box with towels or foam.
- Wine Glasses, Champagne Flutes, or Extra Mugs: These items break easily, so be sure to pack them with cardboard dividers, bubble wrap, or thick dish towels. Each glass should be individually wrapped to prevent contact with other pieces.
- Large Serving Trays Used for Entertaining: These are often bulky and best placed in flat, secure boxes with padding or layers between them. Avoid stacking heavy items on top, and tape the boxes securely.
Infrequently Used Appliances
Appliances that don’t get daily use can be packed ahead of time, and they’re a great place to start when figuring out how to pack for a move.
- Waffle Makers or Griddles: These often sit unused for weeks, so they’re safe to pack now and store in their original boxes if available. Wrap cords neatly and secure with twist ties to avoid tangling.
- Slow Cookers or Air Fryers Not Used Often: Pack these with their cords tucked in and secure loose parts, such as lids or baskets, to prevent shifting. Use packing paper or towels to protect the surfaces.
- Specialty Machines Like Ice Cream Makers: These are heavy and oddly shaped, so use thick padding like foam inserts or layered towels, and label them clearly to prevent confusion later during unpacking.
Step 4: Pack Storage Areas and Closets
Storage spaces can become cluttered catch-alls, so they’re a good option for what to pack first when moving apartment. Items here are rarely used and often already boxed, making them easy to organize and move out.
Out-of-Sight Storage
These hidden areas often contain things not used in months.
- Long-Term Stored Items in Basements or Attics: Seasonal gear, old decor, or boxed-up memories can be packed as-is and clearly labeled. These spaces often hold items that haven’t been touched in a long time, so they’re usually ready to go with minimal sorting.
- Clothing, Shoes, or Supplies Under the Bed: Vacuum-seal bags or storage bins work well for these and slide easily into moving boxes. Items stored here tend to be out of sight and not needed day-to-day, making them perfect to handle early in the packing process.
- Overflow Boxes or Bins in Closets: These are typically already sorted, so a quick repack with labels can save time. Use this opportunity to declutter if needed and consolidate similar items into one box.
Travel and Packing Supplies
Some items can double as packing containers, which is a smart tip when learning how to pack for a move.
- Suitcases Filled With Clothes or Soft Items: Rolling clothes inside luggage makes it easier to move and frees up box space. Suitcases are durable and often have wheels, which makes them especially useful for transporting heavier or delicate soft goods.
- Travel Bags That Can Double as Storage: Duffle bags or backpacks can carry electronics, linens, or shoes securely. These flexible bags are easy to carry and can help save space when vehicle room is limited.
- Empty Boxes Ready for Packing: Flattened boxes should be pulled out, built, and stacked in a convenient corner to streamline packing. Having them prepped and ready makes it easier to stay organized and keep momentum during the packing process.
Tools and Miscellaneous
Only keep what’s needed for last-minute tasks, since cutting down on extras is part of the best way to pack for moving.
- Screwdrivers, Tape Measures, and Similar Tools: Create a small toolkit for basic needs and pack the rest. Include tools that might be needed for disassembling furniture, hanging curtains, or minor fixes at the new place.
- One All-Purpose Cleaner and a Few Cloths: Leave these out for final cleanup after furniture is removed. These will come in handy for wiping down surfaces or handling unexpected messes on move-out day.
- Unused Bulbs and Small Hardware: Place these in small containers to prevent them from getting lost or broken. Use clear bags or plastic bins with labels so these items are easy to find when needed later.
Step 5: Sort and Pack Clothes
Clothing often takes more time and space than expected. Sorting by frequency of use and season helps make packing more efficient and reduces unnecessary piles. A little organization goes a long way toward keeping things simple once it’s time to unpack.
Clothes by Season
Start with items not currently needed, as this is one of the easiest ways to approach how to pack for a move without disrupting daily routines.
- Winter Wear in Summer or Summer Clothes in Winter: Coats, snow pants, tank tops, or shorts can be packed in labeled boxes or bags to avoid confusion later. Use vacuum-sealed bags to save space and keep items clean during the move.
- Formalwear, Costumes, or Uniforms: These pieces are rarely needed before the move. Hang them in garment bags or fold them carefully with tissue paper in between to prevent wrinkles.
- Shoes That Aren’t Part of the Weekly Rotation: Store them in their original boxes or wrap them individually in packing paper or cloth bags to prevent scuffing and crushing.
Less-Used Clothing
These are clothes that don’t serve everyday needs.
- Workout Clothes Not Used Regularly: Keep one or two sets for occasional use and box the rest. Use small bags or bins to keep workout gear together and avoid mix-ups.
- Sleepwear That Isn’t in the Weekly Cycle: Choose one or two favorite sets to leave out and pack the rest in soft-sided bags. Pajamas can also be used as cushioning for fragile items if needed.
- Extra Loungewear Not Needed Right Away: Simplify by packing duplicates or older items first. These can go in larger boxes or bags since they don’t require careful folding.
Essentials To Leave Out
Reserve a “mini wardrobe” for the final days and moving day itself.
- Two Weeks’ Worth of Everyday Clothes: Pack a small variety including tops, bottoms, and underlayers that can be mixed and matched. This ensures flexibility and avoids digging through boxes for something to wear.
- Enough Undergarments and Socks for Daily Needs: Include a few extra sets for backup. Store them in a small, clearly labeled bag or drawer organizer that can be transferred easily.
- One Jacket, Pair of Shoes, or Umbrella: These should be kept easily accessible in case of unexpected weather changes or outdoor tasks on moving day.
Step 6: Pack Important Documents and Valuables
These items are essential to keep close and should never be thrown in with general boxes. Set aside a secure space for them and make sure they’re well labeled. Hand-carrying them is the safest choice, especially since a survey of 2,000 US adults revealed that many people forget even the simplest necessities—like socks (17%), water bottles (14%), and even wallets (8%)—when moving. Keeping important belongings separate helps avoid those stressful oversights.
Documents
Personal paperwork should be gathered and stored securely.
- Passports and Travel Documents: These can be kept in a portable file folder or locked bag to ensure they’re easy to find and protected. Consider using a waterproof pouch for added security.
- State-Issued IDs and Licenses: These may be needed for identification during the move or when setting up utilities and services at the new place. Keep them in a wallet or personal carry bag.
- Health, Auto, and Renters Valuation Paperwork: Keep them grouped in a labeled envelope or folder for quick reference. It’s helpful to make copies or scan them in case they are misplaced.
Valuables
Anything costly or irreplaceable should be handled with special care, and protecting these items is part of the best way to pack for moving.
- Jewelry Stored in Padded Containers: Use soft cloth wraps, small boxes, or even egg cartons to organize pieces and prevent damage during transport. Keep these with personal carry-on items if possible.
- Electronics Protected in Cases or Original Boxes: Include all accessories like chargers and cables, and cushion them well inside a protective box or bag. Consider labeling each device by owner or room.
- Cash Kept in a Secure, Private Place: Place it in a wallet, envelope, or small lockbox and keep it on hand at all times during the move—not in a box that might be misplaced or loaded onto a truck
Special Box for High-Value Items
Have one box for irreplaceable or sensitive items.
- All Vital Items That Can’t Be Replaced: Include documents, keepsakes, valuables, and emergency contact info. This box should be treated as carry-on luggage.
- A Bright Label or Colored Tape to Find It Fast: Use a unique color or tape pattern to make it stand out from the rest of the moving boxes.
- Packed Last, Unloaded First for Easy Access: Make sure this box goes into the moving vehicle last so it can be the first one brought out and placed in a safe, visible spot at the new location.
Step 7: Prepare a “First Night” Essentials Box
Moving day can be long and tiring. A well-packed essentials box makes it easier to rest, refresh, and get through the first night without searching through everything.
Basic Hygiene and Comfort
Keep what’s needed for the first shower and sleep, since preparing an essentials box is part of the best way to pack for moving.
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, deodorant, and toilet paper
- Medications and daily health items
- A clean outfit to change into the next morning
Technology and Tools
Help with setup and connection.
- Phone charging cables for each device
- Power strip for extra outlets
- Screwdriver, box cutter, and flashlight
Quick Meals and Rest Supplies
Skip the stress of digging through kitchen boxes.
- Light snacks like protein bars or fruit
- One plate, cup, and utensil per person
- Sheets, blankets, and a pillow for each bed or sleeper
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start packing up my apartment to move?
It’s best to start packing about 4 to 6 weeks before the move. Begin with items that aren’t used daily, such as seasonal clothes or decorations, and gradually work toward essentials. Starting early helps avoid last-minute stress and keeps the process organized.
What is the hardest room to pack when moving?
The kitchen is usually the hardest room to pack because it has many fragile items, odd-shaped appliances, and everyday essentials. It requires careful wrapping, labeling, and organization to ensure nothing breaks. Packing it in stages makes the process easier.
Is it better to pack clothes in bags or boxes when moving?
Both work, but boxes are sturdier and easier to stack, while bags are more flexible and save space. Suitcases and duffle bags are also great for packing clothes since they are portable and durable. Using a mix of both methods is often the most efficient.
Do movers pack boxes or furniture first?
Movers usually load boxes first since they are easier to stack and form a base inside the truck. Furniture is loaded after, carefully placed to fit around the boxes, and secured to prevent shifting. This method keeps the load stable and safe during transport.
Is it better to roll clothes or lay them flat when packing?
Rolling clothes saves more space and helps reduce wrinkles, making it a popular choice for moving. Lying them flat works well for bulkier items like jackets or jeans. A combination of rolling and folding often works best for efficiency.
Make Moving Easier With Expert Packing and Storage!
Relocating can be stressful, but the right support makes a huge difference. Murphy Moving & Storage provides professional packing, careful handling, and reliable moving services designed to protect every item from start to finish. With a team focused on efficiency and care, every step of the move becomes more manageable and less overwhelming.
Start the next chapter with confidence—contact Murphy Moving & Storage today to schedule a move!
