Moving house can be exciting, but let’s be honest — packing can quickly become overwhelming if you don’t know where to start. The good news? With a little planning and a smart strategy, you can make the entire process easier and more organised.
In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you what to pack first when moving house, so you can stay stress-free and ready for the big day!
Step 1: Start with Non-Essentials
The first rule of packing? Begin with the things you won’t need before moving day.
Think about items like:
- Off-season clothing (winter jackets if it’s summer)
- Decorations (wall art, photo frames, vases)
- Books, magazines, and board games
- Extra linens, towels, and bedding
- Rarely used kitchen appliances (waffle makers, slow cookers)
These items can be packed away early without disrupting your daily routine.📝 Tip: Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to — your future self will thank you.
Step 2: Tackle Storage Areas
Next, dive into the hidden corners of your home — storage rooms, garages, attics, and basements.
Focus on packing:
- Old electronics and unused gadgets
- Seasonal sports equipment (like skis or diving gear)
- Gardening tools and outdoor gear
- Forgotten boxes or supplies
Since these spaces often collect things you don’t use daily, they’re perfect candidates for early packing.📝 Tip: As you pack, take the opportunity to declutter. Donate, sell, or dispose of items you no longer need.
Step 3: Pack Special and Sentimental Items
It’s wise to pack your sentimental and valuable items early — and with extra care.
Pack items like:
- Jewellery and heirlooms
- Important documents (birth certificates, passports)
- Family photo albums and keepsakes
- Art collections and rare collectibles
Use sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, and clearly mark these boxes as “FRAGILE.”📝 Tip: Keep your most valuable belongings with you during the move, rather than sending them on the moving truck.
Step 4: Pack Out-of-Season and Bulky Items
Now it’s time to box up anything bulky or seasonal that you won’t use immediately.
Examples include:
- Winter duvets, extra pillows, and heavy blankets
- Spare furniture pieces (side tables, stools)
- Unused kitchenware and appliances
- Extra home decor items
Packing these early clears up space and reduces last-minute stress.📝 Tip: Protect larger items with moving blankets or furniture pads to avoid damage.
Step 5: Prepare a “Moving Essentials” Box
Finally, pack a special box (or suitcase) filled with essentials you’ll need right after moving.
Your essentials box should include:
- Toiletries (toothbrush, shampoo, soap)
- A few sets of clothes
- Phone chargers and power strips
- Medications and basic first aid supplies
- Snacks and bottled water
- Cleaning supplies (multi-purpose spray, paper towels)
- Important documents (lease agreement, insurance papers)
Clearly label this box as “OPEN FIRST” and keep it close during the move.📝 Tip: Think of it like packing for a short staycation — you’ll want comfort and convenience at your fingertips.
Conclusion
Packing doesn’t have to be stressful if you approach it step-by-step.By starting with non-essentials, tackling storage areas early, protecting sentimental items, and preparing an essentials box, you’ll set yourself up for a smoother, easier move.
At Xpress Movers, we’re here to make every part of your move stress-free — including packing!Need a hand with professional packing and moving services?
Get in touch with us today to find out how we can help you move with confidence and ease.
