How to move: A guide to packing, planning and settling in

When moving, buyers and sellers have to balance packing up their lives while still functioning in their space and finding a new home.

“Moving is one of the top three most stressful things that we do,” said Christen Fackler, a Pennsylvania professional organizer and content creator with more than 200,000 followers on her TikTok, @iorganize.

One of the most common mistakes people moving make is not carefully thinking out the process. Let Homes.com show you some best practices, whether you are moving yourself or using a professional mover.

If you're hiring a company, it's important to compare prices and select one well ahead of time. "If you're going to be using a moving company, get your quotes and get them scheduled because a lot of the time, they're booked months out in advance," said Stephanie Booth, an Atlanta, Georgia-based real estate agent, organizer and content creator with nearly 300,000 followers on TikTok.

But if you are moving across town and you are able-bodied and have some people who can help, then try moving yourself to save money. Once you determine if you are having professional help or taking the "do it yourself" route, then the next step is to start purging your closets.

“Getting rid of as much as you can ahead of time is ideal,” Fackler said.

Common mistake: Not decluttering enough is a common mistake that leaves homeowners to deal with bringing extra stuff they do not need into their new home.

Decluttering and organization expert Dana K. White suggests movers buy a box package curated to the size of the home they are moving into. For downsizers, this can help you visualize what you will be able to fit in your future space. Regardless, decluttering is an important step if you are staging a home to be listed.

Even with all the planning, mistakes can happen and a carefully made plan may change. An important step to consider is how you will organize your belongings. Some moving companies will handle the organization and labeling when packing for free or for an extra fee depending on the company. If you are packing yourself, then consider devising a system of labeling or taking an inventory. There are even apps that help with this process.

"You should mark boxes with the room name and a short description," said Ross Sapir, CEO of Roadway Moving a national company headquartered in New York City. suggesting labels such as "Kitchen – Pots." Make sure to write "Fragile" on all sides of boxes with delicate boxes, he added. "We also offer digital inventory options for even clearer tracking on our long-distance moves," he said.

Make sure to label boxes clearly and on multiple sides.

Pro tip: "A simple yet effective strategy for keeping your move organized is color-coding boxes with labels," said Najah Ayoub, CMO of Piece of Cake Moving and Storage, a New York City company that serves several cities across the country. Assign each room or area a specific color, and label boxes accordingly with large stickers or colored tape," said Ayoub. "This makes it incredibly easy for both you and your movers to know exactly where everything belongs once it arrives at your new home. It helps streamline the unloading process and makes everything flow more efficiently."

Start packing as early as possible. Time is an asset during the homebuying and -selling process. The earlier you start packing, the better, Booth said.

Common mistake: "Most people wait to the last minute and then they're stressed out," she said.

Start with packing items you don't need every day.

"Pack unused kitchen appliances and holiday items early — they’re bulky and not needed daily," Booth said.

Toys or extra clothes the children are still growing into can be packed up first as well. As you pack, it's a part of the decluttering process, which is important if you are listing your home.

Pro tip: If you have a spare room, basement or garage space, you can use it as a place to lay out all your boxes, Fackler said. Keeping the moving mess contained to one area can help you mentally feel at home while you enter a transitional phase.

“If you can create some specific areas to stage all of these categories, you can keep your bedroom peaceful and your bathroom nice until it gets down to the wire,” Fackler said.

Photos, art and personal items can get packed away first. Spare rooms and any space that is not being used, like an outdoor porch in winter, are great first areas to tackle. Breaking the packing into tangible tasks can help you feel accomplished and stay organized.

“Starting ahead by grouping categories … collecting all the utility items that are similar, and deciding to pack them together and then knowing where they're going to be on the other end,” Fackler said.

Gather scissors, a box cutter, packing tape, painter’s tape and other packing essentials for your packing kit.

Pro tip: "Having good packing tools ... makes the job so much easier,” said Fackler. “Having them together, having a tool kit, a basket, a bucket where it's all together.”

If you are hiring movers, depending on the level of service you choose, will handle packing for you, but for DIYers, having all the supplies at your fingertips will be best.

"The right supplies can make a huge difference to the efficiency of packing, as well as your items staying safe during the move," Ayoub said.

Packing supplies:

• Boxes — You will want a few different types of boxes, including some heavy duty boxes. You can purchase boxes or get them for free off an online marketplace or at a store that gives them away.
• Bubble packing material — This comes in small bubbles, for small fragile items, and big bubbles, which are best for protecting large pieces that are delicate.
• Plastic wrap — This is used to protect furniture. This can keep drawers shut, prevent items from getting wet and protect surfaces.
• Foam rolls and blankets — Adding a protective layer over furniture can help prevent items from being chipped, scratched or damaged.
• Packing peanuts or filling — For some delicate items, you will need to fill in the space around them to protect them.
• Vacuum seal — Vacuum seal bags are great for packing soft items because they compresses things, making it easier to pack them away.
• Pro tip: You can use towels, sheets and even clothes as packing supplies and fillers.

Common mistake: Not packing carefully can lead to items being broken. Investing in good packing supplies and being careful can save your belongings from damage.

All the planning and prep work should make the process of packing smoother.

"Packing isn’t just about throwing things in a box," Ayoub said. "There’s a strategy to it for an easier move. Use quality packing materials, and start with packing heavier items like books at the bottom and lighter weight items like pillows on top."

Boxes should not be more than 50 pounds, but aim for about 40 pounds at their max. If you are worried about lifting boxes, then stick to the 20- to 30-pound range. Use small boxes for heavy items and large boxes for lighter items.

Common mistake: "Avoid overstuffing boxes — it can cause the bottom to fall out," Booth said.

The method of packing a box will change based on what you are putting in it. Items that can break should be wrapped in a protective layer.

Pro tip: “If you don't fill a box completely, then it can smush, so sometimes you just need a little bit of something else to throw in there,” Fackler said.

Boxes are the best mode for packing because of their ability to be carried and stacked. You can buy box kits from moving companies, home stores and storage companies. Y

"Boxes aren't created equal," Booth said. "Heavy duty boxes I highly recommend for a good portion of your kitchen items because they can withstand heavier items. They aren't crushed as easily."

Be gentle on your body. Packing and moving can cause injuries if you are not careful.

Pro tip: “I like to bring a table, like a waist-high table, around with me and set the box down on that table,” Fackler said.

Don't race to tape up boxes, but keep them open so you can add last-minute items in the correct category. Avoid having a box of miscellaneous items.

Step 1: Get packing supplies

Delicate items should be stored in sturdy, small or medium-sized boxes. Containers like a firm cardboard box or plastic tote will provide a hard external layer to prevent anything inside from being crushed.

Fragile items should be protected from each other inside the sturdy box as well. There are several materials that can be used to protect dishes, including bubble packing material, paper, foam, honeycomb paper and cloth. You will also need tape to hold the wrapping together.

Pro tip: Try collecting recycled items — such as newspapers, dish towels and small pieces of cardboard — to use. If you kept the original packing, you can use it to protect fragile items. Cardboard grid dividers are great for packing stemware and other cups.

Step 2: Wrap each item

Wrap each item in a protective layer and secure it with tape.

For glasses, mugs and vases, be sure to fill the inside of the cup and wrap the entire thing.

Plates and dishes should have a layer in between them so they don't rub against each other during the move.

Pro tip: For small figurines, the packing method may change, but using bubble wrap is a good method for extremely fragile items.

Step 3: Fill the space in the box

Boxes with fragile items need to be full — not with items, but with packing material. The method can vary, but first you will need to lay down a protective layer. This could be paper, packing peanuts or another space filler.

Once the bottom layer is down, carefully place the wrapped fragile items in upright. While dishes are typically sturdier and can be stacked, avoid stacking wine glasses and other extremely delicate items.

After the items are packed in the box, you should fill in any extra space on top. All the protective paper, cloth or foam will keep items in their place and prevent shifting.

Common mistake: Not filling all the extra space in a box could cause it to get crushed or items inside to move around and break.

Pro tip: Add an extra layer of tape around the box to be sure it won't fall apart.

Step 4: Label and store carefully

Label “fragile” on multiple sides of the box, along with what is in the box. You can purchase fragile stickers or a stamp or label the boxes yourself. Use a bright color like red to warn movers.

Pro tip: Once a box is loaded with fragile items, try not to stack things on top of it. Make sure they are secure and won't fall over in the moving truck.

Common mistake: If you don't keep track of the fragile boxes, they could be handled roughly or stacked on, causing items inside to break.

If you are using movers, communicate where the fragile boxes are and how they are labeled so they can be extra careful with those items.

Packing the kitchen is a big task. For small appliances like a toaster or air fryer, put them in their original box if you kept it. If not, wrap them in Bubblewrap.

"You should pack pots and pans by stacking them with packing paper between each piece and filling empty spaces with towels or paper," Sapir said.

As heavy items pots and appliances need to be in sturdy boxes, be careful to not overpack them.

Wrap glassware in protective layering and store them upright. Using the box with the cardboard partition that wine glasses come in is also a good way to pack glasses.

Clothing, bedding and other soft items are light but often abundant. There are several options for packing clothes, including wardrobe boxes where items can be hung.

Pro tip: To keep fabric clean and compact, Booth suggests getting a vacuum seal bag kit, which costs about $20 to $30.

"I think the vacuum seal bags honestly work the best because you're sucking out the air," Booth said.

Even with vacuum sealed bags, boxes are easiest for storing clothes and moving. Spare clothes can also be helpful as a protective layer around delicate items.

Wrap furniture to prevent damage. This can be done with plastic, foam, cardboard and fabric.

"You can also prep furniture by disassembling what you can, wrapping it in moving blankets or stretch wrap and protecting corners with cardboard," Sapir said.

Pro tip: Keep a toolbox handy with screwdrivers, drills and bags to keep nails of any parts of furniture, Fackler said.

Common mistake: Furniture can be scuffed and damaged is not properly protected.

Mattresses made of only foam can be vacuum sealed down and transported easily, Booth said.

"You literally suck the air out of them," Booth said. "They become little pancakes that you can roll into a burrito."

Spring loaded mattresses can't be squished down, but they still need to be protected. There are plastic bags, reusable bags or plastic wrap that can cover and protect the mattress.

Pro tip: "Hack that I used to use for a really long time and it works for the spring-loaded mattresses is two fitted sheets," Booth said. "One goes over the front side of the mattress, one goes over the back side ... If anything gets dirty or slightly torn, it's going to be that sheet first."

When moving mattresses, store them standing up.

Moving day will be stressful and possibly chaotic, so prepare for that by setting aside the things you will need for the first night.

"Pack like you're going on vacation, even if it's like a suitcase," Booth said. "You want to pack like you're maybe going to an Airbnb that doesn't have all the supplies."

You will need clothes, toiletries, bedding and other first-night essentials. Also set aside cleaning supplies for first-day messes.

Common mistake: If you don't set aside the essentials, you will have dig through your boxes to find what you need on moving day.

"You should pack a clearly labeled essentials bag with toiletries, chargers, a few outfits and basic kitchen items," Sapir said. "Keep it with you or have it loaded last so it comes off the truck first."

While you definitely will want supplies for the first night, you can pack for an entire week to give yourself some extra wiggle room.

“Don’t forget your pets — things for your pets,” Fackler said.

Pro tip: Keep all your important documents needed for moving in a set place. "Create a mobile desk when you no longer have your desk," Fackler said. "That can be a bag of folders and some Ziploc bags, a file box or even just a cardboard box."

• Clothes
  
  • You will need at least two days of clothes, but you can also pack for up to a week. Pack climate-appropriate clothes that can get dirty and are easy to move in. 
    
    • T-shirts or tank tops
    • Gym shorts 
    • Pants or leggings
    • Sweatshirts or coats 
    • Tennis shoes or work boots 
    • Pajamas 
• Toiletries 
  
  • You will need enough toiletries for a few days that should include supplies for showering. 
    
    • Toothbrush and toothpaste 
    • Face wash and face lotion 
    • Shampoo, conditioner and body wash 
    • Hand soap
    • Toilet paper roll
    • Deodorant 
    • Hairbrush and hair products
    • Towels 
    • Shower curtain and rings
    • First aid kit 
    • Prescriptions 
    • Pain relievers
• Bedding 
  
  • You will need supplies to sleep the first night, but it won't require all the bedding. 
    
    • Sheets
    • Pillows
    • Blanket 
    • Air mattress if needed
• Kitchen 
  
  • While moving, it's essential to eat and stay hydrated. While you might get takeout, having some basic kitchen items handy is a good idea. 
    
    • Paper plates
    • Paper towels or napkins
    • Plastic utensils 
    • Cups or bottles
    • Pet supplies 
    • Non-perishable snacks
• Cleaning supplies 
  
  • Moving can be messy, and you might need to clean up some messes before unpacking. 
    
    • Disinfectant wipes
    • Glass cleaner 
    • Bathroom cleaner 
    • Paper towels 
    • Dish soap 
    • Sponges 
    • Toilet cleaner brush
    • Broom 
    • Duster or rags 
    • Vacuum 
    • List of essential contact info
    • Trash bags 
• Moving supplies 
  
  • As you unpack the first boxes, there are a few things you will need to make the process easier. 
    
    • Box cutter or scissors
    • Toolbox
    • Flashlight
    • Extension cords
    • Batteries
    • Tape 

• Other essentials  

  • You will want to be comfortable, and depending on your move, you may need more supplies to get through the first few nights.  

    • Phone and computer chargers
    • Wi-Fi router or hotspot
    • Paper and pens
    • Extra door lock
    • Night light
    • Folding table and chair
    • Cooler
    • Coffee or tea pot

Once you have the layout of your new place, start planning where everything will go. If you are downsizing, it's important to measure each piece of furniture and consider whether it will fit in the new home.

Pro tip: "Measure your new place with the furniture that you plan on taking ... Is it going to fit through the doors?" Booth said. "Their current house might have double doors, but their new house has a single door, stairs and a stairway."

Common mistake: If on moving day, an important piece like the bed frame or couch won't fit through the door, you could be scrambling to get rid of the item and find a replacement.

If items are too big, then look at selling them on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist or another furniture marketplace. Some thrift stores will take furniture donations as well.

If you get the keys to your new place and it's not too far, then go over and map out the empty space. You can tape out where things will go with painter’s tape to help plan for moving day.

Go over your moving plan with your movers or helpers and discuss what needs to be set up first and what can wait.

Before moving day, be sure to have a plan in place.

Depending on how far you are moving, this process will look different.

If you are traveling farther than 200 miles, you will likely need to overnight the truck and either stay in a hotel or find alternative accommodations. Moving day might really be two or three days.

If you make it to the new home but don't have time to unpack, you could use an air mattress and "camp" in the house for one night.

If possible, try to move out and in within the same day to save money on movers or rental trucks. Ideally, you pack the house in the morning, take a lunch break, and arrive at the new home in early to midafternoon to begin unloading.

Packing up your entire world and moving it to a new home is a lot to deal with, both physically and mentally. You have spent time, energy and money on getting ready for moving day. Here are some last-minute things to consider and remember to ensure a smooth move in and out.

More on this topic:

• How to move: A guide to packing, planning and settling in 
• DIY moving guide: Save money with smart planning and packing tips 
• Moving survival kit: Essential items to have before unpacking 

Try to get a good night's rest. You might find it hard to sleep with your mind racing through everything that needs to be done the next day. Create a checklist of tasks to accomplish, then take a moment to relax. Meditate, watch TV, read a book or do anything that helps you wind down.

Checklist

• Set out your outfit 
• Take a shower and pack up the shower supplies 
• Pack food and water for the next day
• Confirm the moving rental information 
• Charge phones
• Double-check parking
• Plan driving route 

Wake up early. Get your day started at 7 a.m. or earlier to give yourself time to complete last-minute tasks before the movers arrive or you pick up the rental truck. Take care of yourself first. Make sure you have enough time to get ready for a long day. Wrap up mattresses and other last-minute items you couldn't pack until now.

It's good to schedule the rental truck or movers early in the morning, around 8 or 9 a.m. Delays can occur, so having more time is beneficial.

Load the truck. Start with large furniture, then stack heavy boxes and then the light or fragile boxes on top. After loading the truck, make sure that everyone eats and stays hydrated.

Checklist

• Take care of your morning routine
• Pack last-minute personal items 
• Pack mattress
• Pack last-minute items in an essentials bag
• Check in with helpers or movers 
• Pick up any rental equipment 
• First load furniture 
• Then load heavy boxes
• Finally, load fragile boxes
• Walk through each room to make sure you got everything
• Open all kitchen and bathroom cabinets and drawers to check for items
• Walk around one more time for good measure 
• Clean or ensure that the cleaners you hired have access to the home 

Ideally, you have picked up keys and cleaned the new home before moving day. Once inside, walk around and review the plan for where you want to store boxes while you wait to unload the furniture. Since boxes are loaded last, they will be the first to come off the truck. You will need to set these boxes aside while you unload and arrange your furniture.

One location: This strategy involves using a non-essential space, such as a garage, formal dining room, or secondary living space, to house all the boxes. As boxes come off the truck, sort them by room and be careful with those marked "fragile." When it comes to unpacking, this requires moving the boxes again into the proper room, but it keeps them out of the way while you start lugging in the furniture. Having the mess contained to one room is important to some people, but it could lead to procrastination because the issue is out of sight.

By category: Another strategy is to unload boxes in the rooms where their contents belong. You can line them up on a wall or find a spot out of the way where the furniture will be placed. Having the boxes in their assigned room makes it easier for you to unpack. A downside is that every room might feel cluttered until they are unpacked.

“Sort into two categories: boxes to unpack sooner and boxes we're not going to need to unpack [first],” Fackler said.

Once the boxes are unloaded, it's time to move in the furniture. You likely will feel fatigued from moving all the boxes. Be careful and take the time you need to unload. You don't want to hurt yourself or the furniture.

Set the large pieces up. Build your bed frame, assemble the couch and put the table together.

“Focusing on unpacking your bedroom, your bathroom and I would say your kitchen — so that you can eat and rest and clean yourself,” Fackler said.

Remember that not everything needs to be done in one day. Do what is necessary for the first night, then give yourself a well-deserved break.

Checklist

• Walk through the house and discuss where things will be placed — you should have this game plan done well before the movers start lugging in stuff 
• Look for visible messes that need to be cleaned before unpacking
• Unload and sort boxes 
• Unload furniture and put it in its designated rooms
• Return rented equipment
• Build beds
• Set up kitchen essentials
• Unpack bathroom essentials
• Rest — not everything needs to be done on night one

More on this topic:

• DIY moving guide: Save money with smart planning and packing tips
• Tips to moving with pets