Whether you’re hiring movers or doing it yourself, planning early, packing smart, and following our expert moving and packing tips can help you protect your belongings and save time. Use these practical tips to make your move smoother from start to finish.
Key Takeaways
- Start preparing early. Make a moving timeline at least 6 weeks in advance to keep things organized.
- Pack non-essential items first and leave daily-use items for last. Packing room by room makes things more manageable.
- Unpack bedrooms, bathrooms, and the kitchen first so your new home feels livable right away.
- Choose your moving method based on budget, time, and energy. DIY truck rentals are cheapest, while full-service movers handle everything for you.
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Using our unique rating system, we evaluate thousands of movers nationwide based on cost, services, and customer satisfaction. Every article is fact-checked by our in-house experts to make sure you get accurate, up-to-date, and trustworthy information for your move.
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Planning Your Move Like a Pro
A successful move starts with a plan. Here’s how to get started:
- Create a checklist. Our free moving checklist will keep you organized and on schedule, from getting quotes to setting up utilities.
- Declutter before packing. Donate, sell, or toss items you don’t need. The less you move, the cheaper and easier your relocation will be.
- Set a realistic budget. Decide whether you’ll do a full DIY move, use a moving container, or hire professionals. Always set aside a little extra for last-minute costs.
How To Choose the Right Moving Supplies
Essential Packing Materials
- ☐ Boxes in multiple sizes
- ☐ Bubble wrap & packing paper
- ☐ Packing tape & dispenser
- ☐ Permanent markers for labeling
- ☐ Furniture pads or moving blankets
- ☐ Stretch wrap for securing drawers & doors
- ☐ Ziplock bags for small hardware
Where To Get Free or Cheap Supplies
- Neighborhood groups: Check Facebook Marketplace or NextDoor for free used boxes
- Retail stores: Ask grocery or liquor stores if they have extra boxes to give away
- Reuse delivery boxes: Save boxes from recent deliveries for small items or pantry goods
- Buy from retailers: Home Depot and Walmart often sell moving boxes cheaper than movers
Eco-Friendly Packing Options
- Reusable tote bags
- Biodegradable wraps & recyclable boxes
- Rentable reusable moving bins
Smart Packing Strategies
Good packing habits protect your belongings and save time when unpacking. These pro tips will help you pack smarter and move smoother.
- Start with non-essentials. Begin packing four to six weeks before your move. Focus on décor, books, and seasonal clothes so you’re not rushing at the end.
- Label and inventory everything. Label boxes by room, number them, and track what’s inside on a list or moving app. Mark heavy and fragile boxes clearly.
- Protect fragile items. Wrap dishes, glassware, and antiques in bubble wrap or linens. Use packing foam or towels to fill gaps so nothing shifts in transit.
- Pack room by room. Go one space at a time to stay organized. Start with rooms you use least and save daily-use areas for last.
- Don’t overpack boxes. Keep boxes under 50 pounds. Use smaller boxes for heavy items like books and fill extra space with light materials.
Moving Day Tips
- ☐ Pack an “essentials” box with toiletries, chargers, and important documents.
- ☐ Photograph your belongings before loading for insurance purposes.
- ☐ Keep cleaning supplies accessible for quick touch-ups after loading.
- ☐ Arrange childcare or pet care to avoid distractions on moving day.
- ☐ Stay hydrated and have snacks on hand for yourself and helpers.
- ☐ Do a final walkthrough to check for forgotten items and secure the property.
Pro tip: Use your legs, not your back, to lift boxes. Bend your knees, keep your spine neutral, and use moving straps for heavier loads.
Unpacking & Settling In
- ☐ Clean your new space before unpacking.
- ☐ Place boxes in their assigned rooms as you unload.
- ☐ Unpack bedrooms, bathrooms, and the kitchen first to make your home functional.
Pro tip: Keep a toolkit handy for quick fixes like assembling furniture or hanging shelves.
Colonial Van Lines
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Safeway Moving
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American Van Lines
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What Kind of Move Should You Choose?
The type of moving company you decide to go with comes down to how much you want to spend vs. how much you can save by doing it yourself.
Rent a Moving Truck (Full DIY)
If you want to save money and don’t mind the labor, renting a moving truck is the most affordable route. You’ll handle packing, loading, and driving.
This is ideal for local moves or small homes. Just make sure you’re comfortable behind the wheel of a large truck.
Our recommendation: Budget Truck Rental offers affordable rates, frequent discounts, and a large fleet of vehicles in multiple sizes, making it a reliable choice for DIY movers on a budget.
Use a Moving Container (DIY Hybrid)
Moving containers are a great middle ground. You load your belongings, and the company transports the container to your new home. It’s more affordable than full-service moving and eliminates the stress of driving a truck.
Our recommendation: PODS offers flexible scheduling and wide availability, making them an excellent choice for both local and long-distance container moves. PODS costs come in lower than a standard mover while still providing some perks, like transportation and optional moving labor.
Hire a Pro Mover (Full Service)
Full-service movers can handle everything: packing, loading, transporting, and unloading. It’s the most expensive option but also the least stressful. Companies like Colonial Van Lines specialize in long-distance and full-service moves for those who want a seamless experience.
Our recommendation: Colonial Van Lines stands out for its nationwide availability, professional packing options, and dependable full-service moving experience for long-distance relocations.
Pro tip: Check out our guides to the best long-distance movers and cheapest moving companies to find the best deal from top-rated providers
FAQ
How early should I start getting moving quotes?
It’s best to start getting moving quotes at least two to three months before your move, especially if you’re planning a long-distance or summer move. Early booking gives you the widest selection of movers and helps lock in lower rates before peak season prices kick in.
When comparing quotes, make sure you’re looking at similar services, for example, door-to-door vs. self-load container options. Getting at least three quotes from reputable companies helps ensure you’re getting a fair and accurate price.
Should I hire movers or do it myself?
Hiring movers is more expensive, but it saves time and physical effort, especially for large homes or long-distance relocations. Professional movers also handle heavy lifting, furniture protection, and transportation logistics, which can ease stress significantly.
DIY moves, like renting a truck or using moving containers, work best for people who want to save money and have the time and ability to handle packing and loading. It really comes down to your budget and how hands-on you want to be.
What time of year is cheapest to move?
The cheapest months to move are typically October-April, when demand for movers is at its lowest. Winter moves can save you hundreds of dollars compared to the busy summer season.
If you must move during peak months (May–September), try to schedule your move mid-month and mid-week when rates tend to be slightly lower. Booking early can also help you secure better pricing and availability.
How far in advance should I start packing?
Start packing about four to six weeks before your move to keep things manageable. Begin with non-essentials like books, decorations, and out-of-season clothes so you’re not scrambling at the last minute.
Save daily-use items like kitchen essentials, toiletries, and work supplies for your final week. Label each box by room and note its contents. It’ll make unpacking faster and more organized.
How do I handle food when packing for a move?
Eat, donate, or throw away perishable items before moving day. Most movers won’t transport them. For pantry items, pack unopened, non-perishable foods together in small, sturdy boxes to prevent damage or leaks.
If you’re handling the move yourself, make sure all jars and cans are tightly sealed and separated from fragile items. You can also contact local food donation programs if you’d like to give away non-perishables before your move.
How can I safely move large or fragile items?
Use plenty of padding and the right packing materials for fragile or bulky items. For TVs and mirrors, use original boxes or purchase specialty moving boxes designed to fit them snugly.
When loading, always keep fragile items upright and secure them with straps or soft padding to prevent shifting. If you’re hiring movers, ask if they offer custom crating or specialty handling for high-value pieces.
How do I keep my pets safe during a move?
Keep pets confined to a quiet, comfortable space while movers are working. Make sure they have food, water, and a familiar blanket or toy to help them feel secure during the chaos.
For long-distance moves, plan ahead for bathroom breaks and overnight stays. If you’re flying, talk to your vet about travel options and documentation for your pet.
What’s the best way to load a moving truck?
Start by loading the heaviest items like furniture and appliances at the back of the truck and along the sides to create a balanced foundation. Then, stack lighter boxes and smaller items on top to prevent damage.
Fill any empty gaps with soft items like blankets, pillows, or cushions to minimize shifting during transit. Use straps or tie-downs to secure larger pieces so they don’t move while driving.
What should I do first when unpacking?
Begin with essentials like your bed, bathroom items, and kitchen supplies so your new space feels comfortable right away. Getting these areas set up first will make it easier to relax and settle in.
Once the essentials are done, tackle one room at a time to stay organized. Break down boxes and recycle packing materials as you go to reduce clutter and make progress feel faster.
How can I avoid last-minute moving stress?
Stay organized by confirming all details with your movers a week before the move. Keep a printed checklist and an “essentials” box handy with items you’ll need the first night in your new home.
Give yourself extra time for cleaning, loading, and travel (things almost always take longer than planned). A little flexibility and preparation will go a long way in keeping your move calm and stress-free.
