How to Make Packing for Moving House Less Overwhelming

Val Watson
Authored by Val Watson
Posted Saturday, May 24, 2025 - 5:07am

Moving house is often ranked among life’s most stressful experiences. Between organising the move, managing paperwork and saying goodbye to neighbours, packing can feel like a daunting task that drains your time and energy. However, with the right approach, packing can become a much more manageable and even satisfying process. Here are some practical tips to make packing for moving house less overwhelming.

Start Early and Plan Ahead

One of the biggest mistakes people make is leaving packing until the last minute. Starting early is essential. Ideally, you should begin packing non-essential items several weeks before your moving date. This gives you the chance to sort through your belongings calmly without the pressure of impending deadlines.

Create a packing timeline and break your home into sections, such as by room or category (books, kitchenware, clothes). Tackling one area at a time helps prevent you from feeling swamped by the sheer volume of stuff. Use a checklist to track your progress so you know exactly what’s done and what still needs attention.

Declutter Before You Pack

Packing offers the perfect opportunity to declutter. Sort through your belongings and decide what to keep, donate or discard. Moving is the ideal time to let go of items you no longer need or use, which will reduce the number of boxes and lighten your load.

Be honest with yourself: if you haven’t used something in the last year, it’s probably safe to part with it. Not only does decluttering make packing easier, but it also makes unpacking in your new home less overwhelming.

Gather Quality Packing Materials

Investing in good packing materials will save you stress in the long run. Sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper and strong tape are essential to protect your belongings. It’s worth sourcing boxes of varying sizes to accommodate different items without overpacking or risking breakages.

Label each box clearly with its contents and the room it belongs to. This simple step will make unpacking much quicker and easier, as you’ll know exactly where to put each box.

Pack Strategically

When packing, think about the weight and fragility of your items. Avoid making boxes too heavy, as they’ll be difficult to carry and could be prone to damage. Distribute heavy items like books evenly across smaller boxes and keep fragile items well cushioned with bubble wrap or clothes.

Keep a box or bag of essentials separate, containing things you’ll need immediately after the move, such as toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents and basic kitchenware. This way, you won’t have to rummage through boxes on your first night in your new home.

Enlist Help or Professional Assistance

If the prospect of packing feels too overwhelming, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Friends and family can make the process quicker and more enjoyable. Alternatively, consider hiring professional movers and packers. They have the experience and equipment to pack your belongings safely and efficiently.

For those in the UK looking for reliable support, it’s a good idea to hire Get Man and Van services. These professionals can assist not only with transportation but also with careful packing, ensuring your items are well protected during the move.

Stay Calm and Take Breaks

Finally, remember that moving is a big task and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed at times. Pace yourself and take regular breaks to avoid burnout. Staying hydrated and nourished will keep your energy levels up. Celebrate small victories, like finishing a room or packing all your books, to maintain motivation.

In Summary

Packing for moving house doesn’t have to be an exhausting ordeal. By using these tips, you can turn packing into a much more manageable process. With careful planning and a positive mindset, you’ll be unpacking in your new home before you know it, feeling organised and stress-free.

 

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