Key Takeaways✔ Start with a moving plan to stay organized and avoid last-minute stress. ✔ Declutter before packing to save time, space, and effort. ✔ Use space-saving methods like suitcases, bins, and vacuum bags for efficiency. ✔ Protect fragile items by wrapping carefully and labeling clearly. ✔ Organize and label boxes to make unpacking easier and faster ✔ Communicate with movers to ensure belongings get handled with care. ✔ Keep essentials accessible to avoid searching through boxes right away. ✔ Pack the kitchen first since it is the hardest with fragile items and appliances. ✔ Pack clothes using a mix of boxes, bags, and suitcases for best results. |
When moving, pack non-essential items first, such as seasonal clothing, holiday decorations, collectibles, books, and rarely used kitchenware. This strategy clears clutter and gets you in the right mindset for packing. You should also pack an “Open First” box with immediate necessities like toiletries, medication, phone chargers, and basic kitchen items for your first few days in the new home.
✔ Start With the Least Essential
When moving from one state to another, it makes sense to begin with items that are not used daily. These things can be packed early without affecting daily routines.
Seasonal Items
Out-of-season belongings are the easiest place to start. Since these are not used every day, boxing them up weeks in advance won’t disrupt life.
- Out-of-Season Clothing: Winter coats in summer or swimwear in winter can be packed right away. Doing this early saves closet space and reduces last-minute stress.
- Holiday Decorations: Lights, ornaments, and other décor can be stored in sturdy boxes. Since they are fragile and only used once a year, they are safe to pack well in advance.
- Sports Gear: Equipment like skis or surfboards can be boxed up before moving day. These items are bulky, so securing them early keeps packing areas clear.
Decor and Knick-Knacks
Decorative items add character to a home, but they are not essential for daily living. Packing them ahead of time clears space and reduces last-minute stress.
- Artwork and Frames: Paintings, photos, and wall art should be wrapped carefully to prevent damage. Because they aren’t part of daily routines, they can be packed right away.
- Collectibles: Figurines, souvenirs, and keepsakes can be packed with extra cushioning. Handling them early avoids a last-minute rush with fragile items.
Seldom-Used Items
Some items are only pulled out on occasion, making them perfect to pack first.
- Specialized Kitchenware: Appliances like waffle makers, mixers, or holiday serving dishes can go into boxes early.
- Spare Linens: Extra sheets, blankets, and towels that are not part of the regular rotation can be stored safely.
- Closet or Cabinet Storage: Things that sit unused in storage areas can be sorted and packed away.
Books and Entertainment
Books and media collections often take up a lot of space but are not urgently needed.
- Books and Magazines: Except for the one currently being read, books can be packed early.
- DVDs and Games: These can be boxed up to make unpacking easier later.
✔ Pack an “Open First” Box
Once the least essential items are out of the way, families should focus on packing an “open first” box. This special box contains everything needed for the first day or two in the new home, reducing the stress of searching through dozens of boxes.
Personal Essentials
Daily-use items should always stay close at hand to make the first few nights more comfortable.
- Toiletries: Toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, and shampoo should be easy to find.
- Prescription Medications: These must always be kept in a secure spot for easy access.
- First-Aid Kit: A small kit with bandages, ointment, and pain relievers can be very helpful during a move.
Kitchen Basics
Eating out every meal during a move is not always possible, so having basic kitchen supplies helps.
- Plates and Cups: A small set for each family member makes meals easier.
- Utensils: Forks, spoons, and a sharp knife should be included.
- Snacks and Canned Food: Easy-to-prepare items save time when settling in.
Electronics and Tools
These items often get forgotten, but they are some of the most important to have ready.
- Chargers: Phone, laptop, and tablet chargers should be packed in this box.
- Flashlight: A flashlight comes in handy if unpacking goes late into the evening.
- Basic Tool Kit: Screwdrivers, pliers, and a tape measure help with small tasks on moving day.
Important Documents
Paperwork should never be packed on the moving truck. Instead, it belongs in the “open first” box or a secure folder.
- Moving Contract: Keep this document on hand for reference.
- Lease Agreements or Mortgage Papers: These are often needed immediately upon arrival.
- IDs and Financial Records: Passports, driver’s licenses, and banking information should always be kept safe.
✔ Important Packing Tips
Packing can quickly become stressful if it is not done with a plan. These tips help make the process smoother and reduce unnecessary problems later.
Declutter
A move is an ideal opportunity to reduce clutter, and sorting through belongings before packing saves both time and space. Studies have even shown that cluttered homes are linked to higher stress and lower moods, making decluttering not only practical but also beneficial for overall well-being.
- Donate: Items in good condition can be given to local charities.
- Sell: Things that are no longer needed can be sold online or at a yard sale.
- Discard: Broken or worn-out items should be thrown away.
Label Clearly
Clear labeling makes unpacking faster and more organized.
- Room Labels: Boxes should be marked with the name of the room they belong to.
- Content Labels: Writing down the main contents helps avoid confusion later.
Use Linens for Padding
Soft household items can double as packing materials, saving money and reducing waste.
- Towels: Great for wrapping fragile items like dishes.
- Blankets: Can cushion larger objects in boxes.
- Sheets: Useful for covering and protecting furniture.
Pack Heavy Items in Small Boxes
Keeping boxes manageable prevents injuries and makes lifting easier.
- Books: Place books in smaller boxes to avoid overloading.
- Heavy Decor: Lamps, vases, or similar items should also be packed in small, sturdy cartons.
✔ What to Keep With You
Some belongings should never go on the moving truck. Instead, they should stay with the family for safety, comfort, and convenience.
Essentials for the First Days
When planning what to pack first when moving from one state to another, a personal bag with basics is a must. A few changes of clothes, simple toiletries, and daily items like chargers or glasses make the first nights comfortable without searching through boxes.
Pets and Plants
Pets and plants need extra care during a move since most movers don’t handle them. Food, carriers, and comfort items should go with pets in the car, while plants are best transported personally to keep them safe.
Comfort Items
Comfort items make the transition easier after a long trip. Packing pillows, blankets, light entertainment, and a few snacks ensures the family feels settled right away.
✔ What Is the Right Order to Pack for a Move?
The best approach is to start with items that are not used daily and work toward essentials. Out-of-season clothes, decorations, and books can go first, followed by seldom-used kitchenware or linens. Leave daily necessities, toiletries, and an “open first” box for the very end.
✔ Which Items Do Moving Crews Usually Avoid Packing?
Professional packers handle most household belongings, but there are some things they typically won’t take for safety or policy reasons:
- Hazardous Materials: Items like paint, propane, and cleaning chemicals cannot go on moving trucks. Some types may require UN or DOT-approved packaging, as noted by PHMSA. Clearing these out before a move also helps reduce clutter, which studies link to higher stress and low mood.
- Perishable Foods: Anything that can spoil during the move is usually left out.
- Pets and Plants: Most movers will not transport living things, so these must go with the family.
✔ Which Room Is the Most Challenging to Pack?
The kitchen is often considered the hardest room to pack. It contains fragile items like dishes and glassware, plus bulky appliances that require careful handling. Sorting through food and organizing delicate items makes this space especially time-consuming.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should packing start for a state-to-state move?
It is best to begin packing at least four to six weeks before the move. Starting early allows time to sort through belongings, declutter, and organize items without feeling rushed. Families can begin with non-essential items first and leave daily-use essentials until the final week.
How do you keep fragile items safe during a long-distance move?
Fragile items should be wrapped in bubble wrap, towels, or blankets to prevent damage. Boxes need to be clearly labeled as “fragile” so movers know to handle them with care. It also helps to keep fragile boxes small and lightweight so they are easier to move safely.
How can families stay organized while unpacking?
Labeling boxes by room and contents is one of the simplest ways to stay organized. Families can also unpack one room at a time, starting with the kitchen or bedrooms. Having a plan avoids the stress of scattered boxes and missing essentials.
Are there items that require special packing materials?
Yes, large electronics, mirrors, and glassware often need extra protection. Specialty boxes, corner protectors, and foam padding are useful for keeping these belongings safe. Investing in proper packing supplies reduces the chance of damage during transport.
How should large furniture be prepared for moving?
Large furniture should be disassembled if possible to make it easier to carry and load. Wrapping pieces in blankets or moving pads protects them from scratches and dents. Keeping screws and small hardware in labeled bags helps with reassembly later.
Get Expert Support for the Next Move!
Murphy Moving & Storage provides professional relocation services designed to handle every stage of the moving process with care and precision. From packing and transport to setup at the new home, our experienced team ensures belongings are protected and delivered on time. Trusting a reputable provider makes long-distance or local moves far less stressful for families and businesses alike.
Contact Murphy Moving & Storage today to schedule a consultation and get started on the next move!
