The Ultimate Checklist for Moving: What to Pack First for a Stress-Free Relocation

Are you planning to move shortly but feel overwhelmed by the task? What should you do first? We will relieve you of the stress. Without proper preparation, a move can be an overwhelming experience.

We have compiled the Ultimate Moving Checklist for you to streamline your packing. Understanding what to pack before moving can reduce relocation stress, whether you are planning to hire local movers for a DIY move or hiring a professional. This guide is the key to an organized and hassle-free moving experience.

How to Pack First When Moving?

Packing up the entire house can be a difficult task. Take into account every corner, cabinet, and closet, as well as attic and storage areas. Packing all your items will take a lot of time.

You have two options:

  1. The best approach is to work proactively, completing each section within a reasonable time.
  2. If you work until the very last minute, stay up all night, or push yourself to the limits, finishing everything in a few short days is impossible.

What am I hearing? You choose the first option. You made the right choice.

Do not assume that you are the only one struggling. This article will tell you what to pack for a move. This list is arranged chronologically to make planning and completing your packing easier.

When Should I Start Packing for My Move?

The moving process has officially begun. It’s time to start packing when you are ready to move. This may seem like overkill. However, your realtor will tell you to do it if you want to sell your home to increase its appeal to potential buyers. Your home will be more attractive to buyers if you declutter. It’s time to eliminate things you no longer need or want.

What about the things you need to hide but want to keep? Imagine packing up all your holiday decor, winter clothes, and hand-me-downs and having a space to store them that differs from the hallway or guest bedroom. I know! I know!

What Is the Best Way to Start Packing for a Move?

If you have completed your house cleaning, bought moving supplies, and hired a professional, it’s time to start packing. Here is the play-by-play.

1. Put Away the Things You Have in Storage (at Least Five Weeks)

If you have old clothes for babies, holiday decorations, wrapping supplies, furniture not in use, or any other items stored away, prepare them to be packed. They will be used only after moving day.

2. Clothing for Out-of-Season (4–5 Weeks Before)

The same applies to clothes that are not in season. It would help to pack clothes you wouldn’t need until the weather changes. Save space by vacuum-sealing bulky sweaters and puffy coats.

3. Wrap Fragile Items (3–4 Weeks in Advance)

If you are moving, it’s unlikely that you will host a dinner party. We don’t recommend packing up your everyday dishes. However, it’s the right time to start carefully wrapping any fine china or crystal you won’t use daily.

4. Pack Your Guest Bedroom Three Weeks Before Departure (3 Weeks Out)

Now is the time to pack up your guest rooms and rooms you rarely use. Now is the time to pack up your dressers and disassemble your beds. You might expect help to pack from outside the area between closing down your old house and moving into your new home.

5. Box Your Books, Artwork, and Decor (2–4 Weeks Before Departure)

Art and decor are optional. Pack these items two to three months in advance of the move. Books on your shelves are no different. As a form of entertainment, you can keep one or two books out. All the rest should be put in boxes.

When packing boxes, it’s easy to pile many books in one big box. This can result in a very heavy package. Place heavy items like books into smaller containers to pack like a pro. It will make it easier to lift.

6. Load Up the Linens (Two Weeks in Advance)

Pack your extra linens, towels, and blankets two weeks before moving.

7. Take on the Toybox (1–2 Weeks Before)

For kids or adults with complex hobbies, it’s time to go through your toy bins or storage boxes and decide what can be donated or thrown out. It’s not true that your children will be unhappy about their toys being packed away. Parents, here’s a tip: Pack up toys while the kids are away. When a pouty kid tugs at you, deciding what belongs in the portable storage and what doesn’t is difficult.

8. Store Your Shoes, Jewelry, and Clothes (1 Week Out)

Pack your shoes, clothes, and jewelry a week before moving. Two clear suitcases or bins are needed – one to hold the items you need for the week before your move and another for the clothing and toiletries for the week following. It may cause some overlap, but this is a great method to stay organized.

It can be challenging to pack shoes. They will be damaged and bent if you throw them into boxes. Wrap them up in packing paper and put them in boxes. Put bubble cushioning in between the pairs of shoes to provide extra protection.

9. Last to the kitchen (2-3 days)

Pack away any kitchen appliances you do not use daily for a few weeks before moving. It’s often the kitchen that is the most difficult to pack, and also the last one people do because it’s the room they use up until the day before moving. Prepare everything in advance. Purge the pantry and clean out your cabinets. Once you’ve completed the first steps, the rest of the list can be done last.

It can be exciting but also stressful to move into a new home. You can make the first time you enter your dream house memorable by ensuring everything goes as smoothly as possible. To make your dream a reality, you need to prepare.

Conclusion

Planning and organizing can make moving easier. This Ultimate Pre-Moving Checklist will help you decide what to pack and when to start packing. Remember, a successful move is not only about how and when you pack; it also depends on finding the best professional movers.

Consider hiring Flat Fee Movers Bradenton if you live or work in Bradenton. They are a friendly and reliable team of movers in Bradenton. Our moving services are designed to make the relocation process as easy as possible. Do not let the stress of moving and packing overshadow your excitement about moving to a new location.

Are you ready to move? Flat Fee Movers Bradenton will handle all the work while you relax and enjoy your new chapter. Contact us or visit our site for a free quote to start your stress-free moving journey.

Abraham Berger

Abraham Berger is a distinguished writer specializing in moving articles, bringing his passion for relocation and expertise in the moving industry to help readers embark on seamless and stress-free moving journeys. With an innate ability to combine personal experiences with extensive research, Abraham's articles resonate with readers as he offers valuable insights, tips, and strategies for a successful move.