What to pack first when moving

Moving can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience. One of the most common questions people ask when preparing for a move is, “What do I pack first?“ Whether you’re handling the process yourself or hiring professional removalists, starting with a clear plan can save you time and reduce stress.

Why packing in the right order matters

What to pack first?

1. Start with non-essential items

• Items you won’t need immediately can be packed weeks ahead.
• Examples:
  • Off-season clothes
  • Holiday decorations
  • Books and collectibles

Pro Tip: Label these boxes clearly as “Non-Essentials” and store them in a corner to avoid mix-ups.

2. Pack decorative and fragile items

• Art, mirrors, and photo frames should be carefully wrapped and packed early.
• Use bubble wrap, packing paper, or towels to secure them.
• Mark boxes as “Fragile” for careful handling.

3. Focus on storage areas

• Clear out garages, attics, and basements first. These spaces often hold non-essential items like tools, camping gear, or old files.
• Declutter while packing—donate or discard items you no longer need.

4. Tackle seasonal or specialty items

• This includes sports equipment, winter clothes (if moving in summer), and rarely used kitchen gadgets.

5. Essentials: save these for last

• Pack everyday essentials (clothes, toiletries, and kitchen utensils) closer to the move.
• Prepare a “First-Day Essentials Box” with:
  • Toiletries
  • A change of clothes
  • Chargers
  • Snacks and water bottles

Tips from professional removalists

• Removalists recommend labeling boxes with both contents and destination rooms.
• Invest in high-quality packing materials to prevent damage during transit.
• Create an inventory to track all items and boxes.

Did you know? Removalists typically pack heavy furniture first in the truck and ensure fragile boxes are securely placed on top.

How to stay organised throughout the packing process

• Use a packing timeline:
  • 4-6 Weeks Before: Start with storage and non-essentials.
  • 2 Weeks Before: Focus on kitchenware and specialty items.
  • 1 Week Before: Pack essentials.
• Declutter: Take this opportunity to donate or sell items you don’t need.
• Color-coding: Use colored labels for each room (e.g., green for kitchen, red for bedroom).

Common packing mistakes to avoid

• Leaving packing too late.
• Overloading boxes (risking breakage or injury).
• Forgetting to label boxes.
• Packing hazardous materials without proper care (e.g., cleaning supplies).

Packing may seem daunting, but with a clear strategy, it becomes a manageable task. Remember to start early, focus on non-essential items first, and leave essentials for last. Whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring removalists, following these steps will make your move smoother and stress-free.

Ready to simplify your move?