As a leading Bolton estate agent we know that moving to a new home is an exciting chapter in life — new surroundings, fresh opportunities, and a chance to reorganize. But let’s face it: the actual process of moving can be overwhelming. Between sorting, packing, lifting, and unpacking, it’s easy to get lost in the chaos. However, with the right strategies in place, packing doesn’t have to be a nightmare.
In this blog, we’ll cover essential packing tips to help you move your property like a pro — saving you time, stress, and maybe even a few backaches!
1. Start Early – The Golden Rule
One of the most common mistakes people make when moving is waiting until the last minute to pack. Avoid the rush and start packing at least 4–6 weeks before your move date. Begin with non-essential items — think seasonal clothing, books, or décor — and gradually work your way up to everyday essentials.
Pro Tip: Create a packing schedule. Break it down by room and set weekly goals so you don’t feel overwhelmed.
2. Declutter Before You Pack
Moving is the perfect time to let go of things you no longer need. Not only does this make packing easier, but it also reduces moving costs — fewer items mean fewer boxes and possibly a smaller moving truck.
Go room by room and create three piles:
• Keep
• Donate/Sell
• Toss
Pro Tip: If you haven’t used it in the last year, you probably don’t need it.
3. Gather Quality Packing Supplies
Resist the urge to grab random boxes from the grocery store. Quality packing supplies protect your belongings and make stacking easier.
Essentials include:
• Sturdy moving boxes (in multiple sizes)
• Packing tape (don’t skimp on quality)
• Bubble wrap and packing paper
• Stretch wrap
• Labels and permanent markers
• Ziplock bags (for screws, cables, etc.)
Bonus: Consider investing in plastic bins for long-term storage or items you’ll need access to quickly.
4. Label Everything — Seriously
It might feel tedious in the moment, but labelling is a game-changer when it’s time to unpack. Clearly write the room name and a short description of contents on each box (e.g., “Kitchen – Pots & Pans”).
Even better: Use color-coded labels or stickers by room. For example, blue for the kitchen, red for the bedroom, yellow for the bathroom.
Pro Tip: Number your boxes and keep a master inventory list. This helps you know if anything goes missing in transit.
5. Pack by Room, Not by Category
Don’t mix items from different rooms into the same box — it may seem efficient, but it makes unpacking chaotic.
Instead, pack one room at a time. This helps you stay organized and simplifies setting up your new home.
6. Use What You Have
You don’t need to buy every packing material on the market. Get creative with what’s already in your home:
• Use towels, blankets, and clothing to wrap fragile items.
• Store small items in pots, baskets, or suitcases.
• Secure drawers with plastic wrap so you don’t need to empty them.
Pro Tip: Nest smaller items inside bigger ones to save space.
7. Protect Fragile Items the Right Way
It’s tempting to throw some bubble wrap around a glass and hope for the best, but fragile items need special care.
• Wrap each item individually with bubble wrap or paper.
• Use crumpled paper or packing peanuts to cushion empty spaces in boxes.
• Label boxes with “FRAGILE” and “THIS SIDE UP”.
Bonus Tip: Pack plates vertically like records — they’re less likely to break that way.
8. Don’t Overpack Boxes
It’s easy to get ambitious, especially when trying to reduce the number of boxes. But overloaded boxes are harder to move and more likely to break open.
• Keep boxes manageable
• Use smaller boxes for heavy items (books, tools) and larger boxes for lighter things (bedding, pillows).
Remember: If you can’t lift it easily, neither can your movers.
9. Make a First-Night Essentials Box
After a long moving day, the last thing you want to do is dig through boxes for toothpaste or pyjamas. Pack an essentials box (or suitcase) with everything you’ll need for the first 24–48 hours in your new home.
Include:
• Toiletries
• Basic kitchenware
• A change of clothes
• Medications
• Important documents
• Chargers
Think of it as your survival kit.
10. Take Photos Before Disassembling
If you’re taking apart furniture or disconnecting electronics, snap photos beforehand. It’ll make reassembly way easier when you get to your new place.
Pro Tip: Keep screws and hardware in labelled Ziplock bags taped to the furniture pieces they belong to.
11. Use Clear Bins for High-Priority Items
For things you’ll want to access quickly — like cleaning supplies, tools, or important documents — use clear plastic bins. They’re easy to spot and won’t get lost in the mountain of cardboard boxes.
12. Enlist Help or Hire Movers
Don’t underestimate how much work moving is. Ask friends or family for help well in advance — and feed them well as a thank-you!
If it’s in your budget, consider hiring professional movers. They have experience, equipment, and can help avoid injuries or broken items.
13. Notify Important Parties of Your Move
While not a packing tip per se, don’t forget to change your address and notify:
• The post office
• Utility companies
• Banks and insurance providers
• Subscriptions and memberships
• Your employer and doctor’s office
Final Thoughts
Packing doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. With a solid plan, the right supplies, and a little bit of patience, you can make your move smooth and (almost) painless. Think of it not just as a chore, but as a fresh start — an opportunity to streamline your belongings and begin a new chapter with a clutter-free home.
Happy moving!
