How to pack for a move
Pack for a move room by room, starting two weeks out with what you use least: heavy things like books in small boxes, light bulky things in large ones, plates on edge with paper between them, and no box heavier than you can lift comfortably. Label every box on two sides with the room and a short list. Pack a first night bag and keep it with you.
About 30 minutes to learnEveryday skill
Mark it once you can do it without this page open.
How to do it
- Collect boxes in two or three sizes, packing tape, markers and plenty of paper.
- Start with rooms and items you use least, such as books, decorations and off-season clothes.
- Put heavy items in small boxes and light, bulky items in large ones.
- Wrap plates and stand them on edge like records, with crumpled paper above and below.
- Fill empty space so nothing shifts, and tape the bottom of every box across both seams.
- Label each box on two sides with the room and three or four words about what is inside.
- Photograph the back of the TV and computer before unplugging, and bag the cables with their device.
- Pack a first night bag with chargers, medicines, toiletries, a change of clothes, sheets, a towel and basic tools.
Common mistakes
- Filling large boxes with books until the bottom gives out.
- Labeling only the top, which is hidden once boxes are stacked.
- Packing chargers and medicines somewhere in the truck.
Quick self-check
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Teach this to someone
A one-page sheet for showing a friend, a roommate or a kid: what to say, what to show, and one question to check it landed.
Teach: How to pack for a move
What to say
Pack for a move room by room, starting two weeks out with what you use least: heavy things like books in small boxes, light bulky things in large ones, plates on edge with paper between them, and no box heavier than you can lift comfortably. Label every box on two sides with the room and a short list. Pack a first night bag and keep it with you.
What to show, in order
- Collect boxes in two or three sizes, packing tape, markers and plenty of paper.
- Start with rooms and items you use least, such as books, decorations and off-season clothes.
- Put heavy items in small boxes and light, bulky items in large ones.
- Wrap plates and stand them on edge like records, with crumpled paper above and below.
- Fill empty space so nothing shifts, and tape the bottom of every box across both seams.
- Label each box on two sides with the room and three or four words about what is inside.
- Photograph the back of the TV and computer before unplugging, and bag the cables with their device.
- Pack a first night bag with chargers, medicines, toiletries, a change of clothes, sheets, a towel and basic tools.
The check question
Ask: Where do heavy things like books belong?
Related skills
- How to load a moving truck
- How to move heavy furniture safely
- How to hire movers without getting scammed
- Every skill in Renting and Moving
Last reviewed . First published .