The Ultimate Packing Checklist for Moving [2023]

Moving can be a daunting and stressful task, but with our comprehensive packing checklist, you can take some of the stress out of the process. Our team of expert movers at Moving Checklist™ has compiled a list of essential items and tips to help you make the move as smooth as possible.

Gather Your Moving Supplies

First things first, you'll need to gather your moving supplies. These might include:

• Boxes in various sizes
• Packing tape
• Bubble wrap
• Packing paper
• Labels and markers
• Furniture blankets or pads

We recommend obtaining all of your moving supplies well in advance of your move, so you don't have to worry about running out of boxes or tape mid-pack.

Packing Tips for Each Room

Packing can be overwhelming, especially when you don't know where to start. We recommend tackling packing one room at a time. Here are some room-specific packing tips to get you started:

Kitchen

• Pack fragile dishes and glasses with bubble wrap or packing paper
• Use dish towels and oven mitts as extra padding for delicate items
• Label boxes with contents and "fragile" on the outside

Living Room

• Disassemble large furniture and label the pieces for easy reassembly
• Use furniture blankets or pads to protect furniture during transport
• Wrap delicate items such as lamps or picture frames in bubble wrap

Bedroom

• Pack clothing in suitcases or wardrobe boxes to keep them wrinkle-free
• Use mattress covers to protect your mattress and box spring during transport
• Disassemble bed frames and headboards, keeping all screws and hardware in a labeled bag

Bathroom

• Pack toiletries and personal care items in small boxes or bags
• Use packing paper to wrap fragile bathroom items such as mirrors or glass containers
• Label boxes with contents and "bathroom" on the outside

General Packing and Moving Tips

Here are some general tips to keep in mind:

• Start packing early – we recommend starting at least 4 weeks before your move
• Pack room by room, labeling boxes clearly with contents and room
• Use small boxes for heavy items, and larger boxes for lighter items
• Pack a "first night" box with essentials such as toiletries and a change of clothes
• Book a reputable moving company well in advance of your move date

What to Do 4 Weeks Before Moving

Moving can be overwhelming, but with careful planning, you can make the process smoother. Here are some tasks you should complete about 4 weeks before your move date:

• Book a reputable moving company
• Notify your landlord or real estate agent of your move
• Request time off work for your moving day
• Start packing items you don't use frequently, such as seasonal clothing or holiday decorations
• Notify your bank, credit card companies, and utility providers of your change of address
• Plan to transfer school records if you have children

Moving FAQs

How much in advance should I start packing to move?

We recommend starting the packing process at least 4 weeks before your move date. This will give you plenty of time to pack items carefully and label boxes properly.

What should be included in a moving checklist?

Your moving checklist should include everything from booking a reputable moving company to transferring school records if you have children. It's important to be as organized as possible to ensure a smooth move.

What to do 4 weeks before moving?

Four weeks before moving, you should book a reputable moving company, notify your landlord or real estate agent of your move, and start packing items you don't use frequently. You should also notify your bank, credit card companies, and utility providers of your change of address, and plan to transfer school records if you have children.

Quick Tips and Facts

• Moving can be expensive, but you can reduce costs by packing yourself and booking a reputable moving company well in advance.
• It's important to declutter before your move – get rid of anything you no longer need or use to save time and money on packing and transporting.
• According to a recent survey, the average American moves 11 times in their lifetime.

Pros and Cons of Hiring Professional Packers and Movers

While hiring professional packers and movers may seem like an expensive option, there are certainly pros and cons to consider:

Pros

• Professional packers and movers can provide all of the necessary supplies and handle packing and loading of the truck.
• Hiring professionals can save time and reduce stress during the move.
• Professional movers are experienced in handling delicate and heavy items, ensuring they are safely transported to your new home.

Cons

• Hiring professionals can be expensive, especially if you have a large home with lots of items.
• It can be difficult to trust strangers to handle your valuable possessions with care.
• Some people prefer to pack themselves to ensure that their items are organized in a way that makes sense to them.

Our Recommendation

Our team of expert movers at Moving Checklist™ recommends evaluating your individual situation to determine whether hiring professional packers and movers is the right option for you. If you have a large home with lots of fragile or heavy items, it may be worth investing in professional packing and moving services to ensure a stress-free move. However, if you prefer to pack yourself and have a smaller home or apartment, packing and moving yourself may be a more cost-effective option.

Conclusion

Moving can be stressful, but with our comprehensive packing checklist, you can take the stress out of the packing process and focus on enjoying your new home. Remember to start packing well in advance of your move date, pack room by room, and label boxes clearly with contents and room. And if you're feeling overwhelmed, don't hesitate to reach out to a reputable moving company for help. Good luck with your move!

References

• Mayflower's Moving Checklist
• United Van Lines Moving Checklist
• U.S. Census Bureau: 11 Moves in a Lifetime