Packing is one of the most time-consuming tasks during a move, but with the right techniques, it can be a breeze. These essential packing hacks will save you time, protect your belongings, and make your move as stress-free as possible.

1. Start Early

Procrastination is your worst enemy when it comes to packing. Begin packing as soon as you know your moving date.

  • Benefits: Avoid last-minute chaos and have enough time to pack thoughtfully.
  • Tip: Start with items you don’t use daily, like seasonal clothing or decorations.

2. Declutter Before You Pack

Don’t waste time packing things you don’t need. Decluttering makes packing faster and reduces moving costs.

  • Hack: Sort items into categories: keep, donate, sell, or discard.
  • Tip: Use the KonMari method—only keep items that “spark joy.”

3. Use Quality Packing Materials

Invest in sturdy boxes and proper packing supplies to protect your belongings.

  • Hack: Use free boxes from grocery stores or buy reusable plastic bins for an eco-friendly option.
  • Tip: Use towels, blankets, and clothing to wrap fragile items instead of bubble wrap.

4. Label Boxes Clearly

Save yourself the hassle of opening every box to find what you need.

  • Hack: Use color-coded labels for each room (e.g., blue for the kitchen, green for the living room).
  • Tip: Write a brief description of the box’s contents on the label.

5. Pack a First-Day Essentials Box

Avoid rummaging through boxes on your first day in your new home by preparing an essentials box.

  • Hack: Include toiletries, medications, chargers, snacks, and a change of clothes.
  • Tip: Keep this box with you during the move, not in the moving truck.

6. Keep Clothes on Hangers

Avoid wasting time folding and refolding clothes.

  • Hack: Slide clothes on hangers into a large garbage bag and tie the hangers together at the top.
  • Tip: Use wardrobe boxes for a professional look and easy unpacking.

7. Take Photos of Electronics

Reassembling electronics can be confusing, especially with multiple cords.

  • Hack: Take photos of your electronics’ wiring setup before you disconnect them.
  • Tip: Label each cord with masking tape to identify which device it belongs to.

8. Pack Heavy Items in Small Boxes

Prevent injuries and avoid boxes breaking under weight by using smaller boxes for heavy items.

  • Hack: Use suitcases with wheels to pack books, tools, or other heavy items.
  • Tip: Distribute weight evenly to make boxes easier to carry.

9. Use Plastic Wrap for Liquids

Prevent spills during the move by sealing liquid containers.

  • Hack: Remove the lid, place plastic wrap over the opening, and screw the lid back on.
  • Tip: Pack liquids upright in a separate box lined with plastic.

10. Protect Fragile Items

Fragile items require extra care during packing and transport.

  • Hack: Use socks or foam plates to cushion glassware.
  • Tip: Pack plates vertically like records to reduce the risk of breaking.

11. Utilize Suitcases and Bags

Maximize the use of your personal luggage to save on packing materials.

  • Hack: Pack heavier items like books in rolling suitcases.
  • Tip: Use duffel bags or tote bags for smaller, easy-to-carry items.

12. Create a Moving Inventory

Keep track of all your belongings to avoid losing items during the move.

  • Hack: Use a spreadsheet or moving app to list all your packed boxes and their contents.
  • Tip: Number your boxes and cross-check them during loading and unloading.

13. Seal Openings on Furniture

Prevent drawers and doors from opening during transport.

  • Hack: Use plastic wrap or painter’s tape to secure drawers and cabinet doors.
  • Tip: Store lightweight items like linens inside drawers for efficiency.

14. Pack Room by Room

Stay organized by tackling one room at a time.

  • Hack: Complete packing one room before moving to the next to avoid mixing items.
  • Tip: Start with less frequently used rooms, like guest bedrooms or storage areas.

15. Use Pillows and Blankets as Padding

Save space and protect fragile items by using soft items as padding.

  • Hack: Wrap mirrors, frames, or fragile electronics in blankets or comforters.
  • Tip: Use pillowcases to protect smaller items like lampshades.

16. Keep Important Documents Separate

Ensure critical documents don’t get lost in the move.

  • Hack: Use a folder or a waterproof bag to keep documents like passports, medical records, and contracts safe.
  • Tip: Carry these documents with you instead of packing them in boxes.

17. Enlist Professional Help

Hiring movers can save you time and ensure your belongings are handled with care.

  • Hack: Choose a reliable company like Multicare Movers for packing and moving assistance.
  • Tip: Discuss your specific needs with the movers to customize their services.