Packing is one of the most time-consuming — and often stressful — parts of moving. Done right, it can save you time, prevent damage to your belongings, and make unpacking at your new home much easier. Done wrong, it can lead to broken items, wasted space, and frustration on moving day.
At Three Man and Truck, we’ve seen every packing mistake in the book — and we know exactly how to avoid them. Here’s our step-by-step guide to packing like a pro, whether you’re moving across town or across the country.
1. Start Early and Pack in Phases
Don’t wait until the week of your move to start packing. Begin at least 4–6 weeks before moving day, starting with non-essential items like seasonal clothing, books, or decor. Packing in phases prevents last-minute stress.
2. Gather the Right Supplies
Good packing starts with good materials. You’ll need:
- Sturdy moving boxes in various sizes
- Packing tape and a tape gun
- Bubble wrap or packing paper
- Permanent markers for labeling
- Plastic wrap for furniture
- Ziplock bags for small parts
Cheap or flimsy materials can result in damaged belongings, so don’t cut corners here.
3. Use the Right Box Sizes
Heavy items like books should go in small boxes to make lifting easier. Lighter, bulkier items like bedding and pillows should go in large boxes. This prevents boxes from becoming too heavy to carry safely.
4. Protect Fragile Items
Wrap fragile items individually using bubble wrap or packing paper. Plates should be stacked vertically (like records) in boxes to reduce the risk of breaking. Fill any empty space with crumpled paper to prevent movement.
5. Label and Color-Code
Clearly mark each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. For extra efficiency, use color-coded tape or stickers for each room. This makes unloading and unpacking much faster.
6. Keep Similar Items Together
Avoid mixing items from different rooms in the same box. This keeps unpacking organized and prevents misplaced belongings.
7. Pack Heavy to Light
When packing boxes, put heavier items on the bottom and lighter items on top. This prevents damage and keeps boxes stable during transport.
8. Disassemble Large Furniture
If possible, take apart beds, tables, and large shelves before moving. Place screws, bolts, and small parts in labeled ziplock bags and tape them securely to the furniture pieces they belong to.
9. Use Clothes and Linens as Padding
Instead of buying extra packing material, use blankets, towels, and clothing to wrap fragile items. This saves space and reduces waste.
10. Pack an Essentials Box
Your essentials box should contain items you’ll need immediately after arriving — toiletries, snacks, chargers, a change of clothes, and important documents. Keep this box with you rather than in the moving truck.
Final Thoughts
Packing like a pro isn’t about rushing — it’s about planning, protecting, and organizing. The better you pack, the smoother your moving day will be. At Three Man and Truck, we offer professional packing services to save you time, protect your valuables, and make your move effortless.
Need help packing for your next move? Call us today for a free quote and let our experts handle the hard work.
