10 Essential Packing Hacks to Make Your Move Easier

Moving can be overwhelming, but with a little organization and the right packing strategies, you can turn a stressful situation into a more manageable process. Whether you’re moving across town or cross-country, these 10 essential packing hacks will help make your move smoother and easier.

1. Start with a Packing Plan

Creating a plan before you start packing can save you a lot of time and hassle later. Set aside dedicated packing time each day and focus on one room or area at a time. Here’s what you need to do:

• • Make a checklist: List every room and category (like kitchen, books, clothes) and assign a day or two to each.
• • Gather supplies early: Stock up on packing materials, such as boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and labels, so you don’t have to make multiple trips to the store.

2. Declutter Before You Pack

One of the easiest ways to reduce the stress of packing is to move less. Take the time to declutter your home before packing up, so you’re only moving the items you actually need or want.

• • Ask yourself: “Have I used this item in the past year?” If the answer is no, consider donating, or recycling it.
• • Organize by categories: Create piles for “keep,” “donate,” and “sell.” This process can reduce the number of boxes you’ll need and make unpacking easier on the other end.

3. Label and Color-Code Your Boxes

Labeling is one of the most effective ways to keep your move organized. But don’t stop at writing on the boxes—use color-coded labels to make unloading even easier.

• • Assign each room a color: Use different colored markers, stickers, or tape to designate which boxes belong in which room. For example, red for the kitchen, blue for the bedroom.
• • Create an easy-to-read label: On each box, write the room name and a brief list of contents. This makes it simple to find items without opening every box.

4. Use Clothes to Wrap Breakables

You don’t need to buy endless rolls of bubble wrap. Instead, wrap fragile items like dishes, glasses, and electronics with your own clothes or linens. It’s a great way to save space and protect your belongings at the same time.

• • T-shirts, towels, and socks: Use these soft items to cushion delicate belongings like plates and mugs.
• • Double-purpose packing: Not only will this protect your fragile items, but you’ll also pack your clothes at the same time!

5. Pack Dishes Vertically

When packing plates and dishes, stacking them horizontally can cause them to break under their own weight. Instead, try this trick:

• • Stand plates upright: Place plates vertically, like records in a box. This positioning is less likely to cause breakage. Be sure to use plenty of padding (like packing paper or clothes) between the plates.

6. Keep Essential Items Separate

The last thing you want after a long day of moving is to dig through boxes trying to find your phone charger or a toothbrush. Instead, pack a separate essentials box for each family member.

• • Essentials box: Include things like toiletries, medications, chargers, a change of clothes, and anything else you’ll need for the first couple of days in your new home.
• • Personal bag: Keep this box or bag with you during the move, rather than putting it on the moving truck.

7. Use Small Boxes for Heavy Items

It might seem logical to use large boxes to pack as much as possible, but when it comes to heavy items, this can be a big mistake.

• • Heavy items in small boxes: Books, kitchen appliances, and other heavy items should be packed in smaller boxes to make them easier to lift and prevent the boxes from breaking.
• • Lighter items in large boxes: Use larger boxes for lighter items like linens, pillows, and clothing.

8. Take Photos of Complex Setups

If you have electronics with complicated setups (like a home theater system or gaming console), save yourself time and frustration by taking pictures of how everything is connected before you unplug it.

• • Snap a picture: Capture the back of your TV, computer, or stereo equipment with all the cords attached. Use these photos as a reference when you’re setting them back up in your new home.
• • Label cords: Consider labeling each cord so you know exactly where it goes when it’s time to reconnect everything.

9. Pack a “First Day” Cleaning Kit

Before you start unpacking, you’ll want to make sure your new home is clean and ready. Pack a separate box with cleaning supplies so you can clean surfaces, floors, and other areas before you start unpacking.

• • Cleaning essentials: Include items like all-purpose cleaner, paper towels, rags, dish soap, sponges, and a broom.
• • Keep it accessible: Make sure this box is one of the first you unload so you can quickly freshen up the space before you settle in.

10. Use Plastic Wrap for Bottles and Liquids

Leaking shampoo bottles or cleaning products can make a big mess during a move. To avoid this, wrap plastic wrap under the lids of liquid containers before packing them.

• • Plastic wrap hack: Unscrew the lids of liquids (like shampoos or detergents), place a small piece of plastic wrap over the opening, and then screw the lid back on. This will help prevent leaks in transit.
• • Seal with tape: For extra security, place a piece of tape over the cap of each liquid bottle.

By following these packing hacks, you’ll streamline your move, protect your belongings, and reduce stress on moving day.

If you need assistance with your move, Poseidon Moving is here to help! From local to long-distance moves, we offer professional packing services to take the hassle off your hands. Contact us today for a free quote, and let us make your next move stress-free.