When should I start packing for a move?

Packing too early may leave you 'living out of boxes' for weeks, while packing too late can cause unnecessary stress. It's recommended to begin packing non-essential items at least 3 to 4 weeks before your move, ensuring that you can still access everything you need for daily living until the final days. Items like off-season clothing and rarely used kitchen equipment should be packed first.

What are the best tips for efficient packing?

Start with items you use the least and work towards the essentials. Label boxes clearly, pack in categories, and avoid over-packing to make unloading easier. Use sturdy boxes, and for fragile items, consider professional packing services to ensure their safety during the move.

How can I avoid living out of boxes before my move?

To avoid living out of boxes, pack gradually and plan to leave daily essentials until the final days. Create an 'essentials' box with toiletries, clothes, and other necessities, so you won't have to unpack everything too early.

When to Start Packing for a House Move

A practical guide to help you prepare…

Introduction:

Moving house can be one of the most exciting yet stressful events in life. One of the most crucial aspects of a smooth move is timing – particularly when to start packing. Begin too early, and you might find yourself living out of boxes. Start too late, and you’ll be frantically throwing things together at the last minute. So, when is the perfect time to begin packing for a house move? Let’s break it down.

1. Assess Your Time Frame

Your moving timeline largely dictates when to start packing. Ideally, you’ll want to give yourself at least six to eight weeks before your moving date. This window provides ample time to pack up your home without the added pressure of rushing. If you’re in a smaller flat or have fewer belongings, you might need less time. Conversely, if you live in a larger house, it’s best to err on the side of caution and allow for extra time.

2. Start with Non-Essentials (6-8 Weeks Before)

Once you’ve established your timeline, begin with items you don’t use daily. These include things like:

Seasonal clothes
Holiday decorations
Books
Spare bedding and towels
Sentimental items (photographs, keepsakes)

Packing non-essentials early means you won’t disrupt your daily life, yet you’ll make visible progress, which is encouraging.

3. Declutter as You Pack

Moving is the perfect opportunity to declutter. Before placing items in boxes, ask yourself whether you really need or want them in your new home. This is particularly relevant for those old clothes you never wear, or kitchen gadgets gathering dust. Consider donating, selling, or recycling what you don’t need. This not only lightens your load but saves money and time on packing.

4. Start with Rooms You Use Less Frequently (4-6 Weeks Before)

By this stage, it’s time to focus on packing rooms or spaces you use less often. Think of places like your:

Guest room
Garage
Attic or basement
Storage closets

These areas often contain things you don’t use daily, so packing them won’t affect your daily routine.

5. Packing the Kitchen and Bathrooms (2-3 Weeks Before)

These are tricky areas because many items in the kitchen and bathrooms are frequently used. A good strategy is to start with less-used kitchen appliances and cookware. Leave the essentials – such as plates, a few pots, and cutlery – for the last week. In the bathroom, pack extra toiletries, towels, and cleaning products, leaving only the essentials until closer to moving day.

6. Your Wardrobe (1-2 Weeks Before)

By this time, you can start packing up most of your wardrobe, particularly off-season clothing. Set aside enough clothes to last you for the days leading up to and following the move, as well as some comfy moving day attire.

7. The Last-Minute Essentials (1-2 Days Before)

There will always be those items you simply can’t pack until the very end, like:

Daily toiletries
Essential kitchen items
Bedding
Important documents
Electronics and chargers

It’s wise to pack these essentials in a separate, clearly labelled box, so they’re easy to access immediately upon arrival at your new home.

8. Moving Day Survival Kit

As your move date approaches, prepare a moving day survival kit. This should include:

Snacks and drinks
Phone chargers
Important documents
Keys to your new home
Any medications you take regularly
A change of clothes and toiletries

Having these essentials handy will make your moving day much smoother.

9. Professional Help

If you’re considering hiring professional movers, bear in mind they might offer packing services as part of their package. In this case, you can adjust your timeline accordingly. If you’re doing it all yourself, don’t hesitate to ask friends or family for help, especially as the moving day draws near.

Final Thoughts

Packing for a house move doesn’t have to be stressful if you plan ahead and follow a sensible timeline. Starting six to eight weeks in advance, prioritising non-essentials, and tackling one room at a time can make all the difference. Remember to declutter as you go, and keep your most important items within reach on moving day. With proper planning, your move will be a success, and you’ll be settled into your new home in no time!