Packing is the most time-consuming part of any move, but a few smart strategies can cut your packing time in half.
Tip one: pack room by room. It is tempting to wander around the house grabbing random items, but that leads to mixed crates that are impossible to unpack efficiently. Start with the room you use least and work toward the kitchen and bathroom last.
Tip two: use the heaviest-on-the-bottom rule. Books, canned goods, and tools go in the bottom of the crate. Lighter items like linens and clothes go on top. This keeps crates stable when stacked and prevents crushing.
Tip three: fill every gap. Towels, socks, and dish cloths make excellent padding. Stuff them around plates, glasses, and picture frames. You are packing those soft items anyway, so put them to work as cushioning.
Tip four: label with the destination room, not just the contents. When the crates arrive at your new home, movers and helpers can place them in the right room immediately. No more sorting through a living room full of mystery boxes.
Tip five: pack an open-first crate. Include paper towels, a utility knife, phone chargers, snacks, toilet paper, and basic cleaning supplies. Mark it clearly so it is the first thing you unload. Trust us, future you will be grateful.