How to Actually Start Packing: A Step-by-Step Guide to Make Moving Easier

Packing for a move can feel overwhelming, especially when you're unsure where to start. With a solid plan and the right approach, you can simplify the process and stay organized. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to start packing your house to move, that will help make the move stress-free.

1. Create a Packing Timeline

Creating a packing timeline is one of the most important steps when figuring out how to start packing for moving. It sets a realistic pace for packing and helps you avoid last-minute stress. 

• Assess Your Timeframe. Start by determining how much time you have until moving day. For a small move, two to three weeks might be enough, but for larger homes or busy schedules, plan for at least a month. Referring to a week-by-week packing guide for moving can help you allocate your time effectively and ensure you stay on track throughout the process.
• Start with Non-Essential Items. Begin by packing items you use the least, such as seasonal decorations, out-of-season clothing and items stored in attics, basements, or guest rooms.
• Set Weekly Goals. Break down your timeline into manageable phases, with specific dates for each room or category. Assign goals like “pack books by Friday” or “organize the closet by next Monday.”
• Tackle Essentials Last. As moving day approaches, pack the more frequently used items, keeping only the essentials for the final days.

It's one of the main tips for a stress-free move.

2. Gather Essential Packing Supplies

A big part of understanding how to start packing to move is having the right supplies on hand.

Boxes of Various Sizes

Cardboard boxes are the foundation of any move, and you’ll want a range of sizes. Small boxes are ideal for heavier items like books and canned goods, while larger boxes are better suited for lighter, bulkier items like bedding, pillows, and towels. Medium boxes work well for most items, including kitchenware and clothes.

Packing Tape and Dispenser

Strong packing tape is essential for securing boxes and making sure they hold up during the move. Choose high-quality packing tape that sticks well and resists tearing. A tape dispenser will speed up the packing process, allowing you to quickly seal boxes without struggling with tangled rolls of tape.

When you're figuring out how to start packing up a house, having the right tools like strong tape and a dispenser will make the process much smoother and more efficient."

Bubble Wrap and Packing Paper

For delicate and fragile items, bubble wrap and packing paper are must-haves.

• Bubble wrap provides a cushioned layer around breakable items like glassware, electronics and collectibles.
• Packing paper can be used to wrap individual items, fill gaps in boxes, and layer between plates or bowls to prevent chipping.

When it comes to how to start packing a house to move, these materials are essential for keeping valuables safe and preventing damage in transit.

If you prefer not to find packing materials by yourself, you can choose packing moving services that provide all the necessary supplies.

Cushioning Materials: Packing Peanuts and Foam Inserts

For added protection, packing peanuts and foam inserts can help fill empty spaces in boxes, creating a stable base that minimizes movement during transport. Packing peanuts are great for oddly shaped items or for providing a protective layer at the top and bottom of boxes. Foam inserts work particularly well for electronics and other fragile items, providing extra security and impact resistance.

Furniture Covers and Moving Blankets

Large items like sofas, mattresses and furniture need protection too.

• Furniture covers, available in plastic or fabric, shield upholstery from dirt, dust, and moisture during the move.
• Moving blankets are thick, padded covers that can be wrapped around furniture, appliances and even large electronics. These packing materials protect them from scratches, dents and other damage.

Stretch Wrap

Stretch wrap is useful for keeping doors, drawers and loose parts secure. Use it to wrap furniture with drawers, secure cabinet doors, or bundle items together. Stretch wrap is especially handy when moving large items that might shift or open up during the move. When learning how to start packing up to move, stretch wrap can be a game-changer for keeping your furniture and other large items secure throughout the journey.

Markers and Labels

Labeling each box is crucial for staying organized.

• Permanent markers make it easy to write directly on boxes, indicating the room destination and contents.
• Consider using colored labels or tape to create a color-coded system for different rooms, which will make unpacking much simpler.

Useful Bags

If you are interested, how to start packing for moving — don’t forget about ziploc bags. They are essential for keeping small items organized. Use them to store screws, bolts, and other hardware when disassembling furniture, or for keeping small parts of electronics or cables together. Label each bag for easy identification, so you don’t have to search for important pieces when reassembling furniture in your new home.

Tool Kit

A basic tool kit will make it easier to disassemble and reassemble furniture as needed.

• Keep essentials like a screwdriver, wrench, pliers and a measuring tape on hand.
• Having a tool kit nearby can also be helpful when you’re securing items for transport or making any last-minute adjustments to packed boxes.

Getting these materials ready in advance can save you time later and keep the process moving efficiently.

3. Declutter and Sort Belongings

One of the best ways to simplify how to start packing for moving is to start by decluttering. Go through each room and separate items into categories: keep, donate, sell, or throw away. This step not only reduces the number of things you’ll need to pack but also makes unpacking easier when you reach your new home. Including decluttering on your moving checklist ensures that you’re not overwhelmed with unnecessary items during the packing process.

4. Pack Non-Essential Items First

To keep your space functional while packing, start with items you don’t use every day. Seasonal clothing, books, decorations, and rarely-used kitchen gadgets are ideal for early packing. By starting with non-essentials, you’ll make steady progress without disrupting your daily routine.

5. Label and Organize as You Pack

Label each box with its contents and destination room in the new home. This simple step will make unpacking much easier. Using color-coded labels or markers for different rooms can also help movers or friends assisting you know exactly where each box should go.

6. Break Down Packing into Small Tasks

Trying to start packing an entire home all at once can be exhausting. Break down the work into manageable chunks, like one room at a time or even specific items (such as “just the closet”). Focused tasks make it easier to see progress and keep stress levels low.

7. Set Aside a “Last to Pack” Box

A “last to pack” box should contain essentials you’ll need right up until moving day, such as toiletries, cleaning supplies, a few dishes, and important documents. Keep this box accessible so that you’re not scrambling to find essentials on your first night in the new home.

8. Get Help if Needed

Moving can often feel like an overwhelming task, but remember, you don’t have to tackle it all on your own. Whether you’re thinking about how to start packing for a big move or simply moving to a new apartment, enlisting help can significantly reduce your stress and streamline the process.

Hiring Professional Movers

How to start packing to move out stress-free? Experienced movers know! If your budget allows, hiring professional movers can be a game changer. These experts are trained to handle all aspects of the moving process, from packing to transporting and unpacking your belongings. Here are some advantages of hiring professionals.

• Efficiency. Movers are skilled in packing and loading items quickly and safely. They know how to maximize space in their trucks and can transport your belongings with care, minimizing the risk of damage.
• Experience with Fragile Items. If you have delicate items, such as glassware, artwork, or antiques, professional movers use specialized packing materials and techniques to ensure these items are well-protected.
• Full-Service Options. Many moving companies offer comprehensive services that can include everything from packing your entire home to setting up your new space. This can take a lot of pressure off you during a busy time.
• Time-Saving. Hiring professionals to handle the packing allows you to focus on other aspects of your move, like setting up utilities or organizing logistics.

By following these steps, you can simplify how to start packing for moving and tackle your move in a more organized and less stressful way. With careful planning and a little patience, you’ll be ready to start fresh in your new home.

Move4U is the full-service packing expert for the Chicago area. Our team prioritizes the safety of your belongings. The professional movers use high quality packing supplies for keeping valuables safe and preventing damage. With our careful attention to detail, we provide a comfortable moving experience that minimizes stress and gives you peace of mind. Trust us to handle your move with the utmost care.