DIY Packing Hacks

Packing up your home can seem overwhelming, but with a few clever tricks, you can make the process smoother, more organized, and even enjoyable! Here are some DIY packing hacks that will help you get ready for your move like a pro.

1. Start with a Packing Plan

Before diving in, make a plan! Start by packing one room at a time and label each box with the room it belongs to and a brief list of its contents. This will make unpacking much easier and help keep everything organized.

2. Use Suitcases and Bags

Save money on boxes by filling your suitcases, duffel bags, and backpacks with clothes, linens, or other soft items. Rolling your clothes can help save space, and wheeled suitcases are great for heavy items like books. Remember if you packing heavy items use a small suitcase, it will prevent possible damage due to it’s weight and it will be much easier to move around.

3. Color-Code Your Boxes

Grab some colorful tape or stickers to label your boxes by room. Assign a color to each room, like blue for the kitchen, green for the bedroom, etc. This way, movers (or you!) will know exactly where each box goes at a glance. No need reading labes!

4. Protect Fragile Items with Household Items

Save on bubble wrap by using towels, socks, blankets and other soft fabrics to cushion breakables. Wrap plates in kitchen towels, and tuck glassware inside thick socks. Not only does this save space, but it also reduces waste!

5. Take Photos of Electronics Before Disconnecting

To make setting up electronics easier, take photos of how everything is connected before you unplug it. This visual reference will save time and frustration when reconnecting cables in your new home.

6. Keep Small Parts in Sandwich Bags

For furniture and appliances, keep screws, bolts, and small parts in labeled sandwich bags. (don’t write on the plastic bag, as this might get erased as it’s moved around. Instead, write on a small piece of paper and place it inside of the plastic bag. Tape these bags to the furniture pieces they belong to or put them ALL in one “small parts box” to avoid losing anything important.

7. Use Stretch Wrap for Easy Transport

Stretch wrap is a lifesaver! Wrap up drawers, cabinets, or anything with doors to keep them closed during transport. You can also use it to bundle items together, making them easier to carry.

8. Label Cables and Cords

Use masking tape to label cords and cables by device. This hack makes it easy to keep track of your electronics and prevents a mess of tangled cords later on. Quick Tip: Blue tape doesn’t leave the sticky glue residues on your items.

9. Make a "First Day" Box

Pack a box with all the essentials you’ll need on the first day in your new place: toiletries, basic kitchen items, a change of clothes, phone chargers, and any other necessities. Having these items within reach will make your first day a breeze.

10. Pack Dishes Vertically

Instead of stacking plates horizontally, pack them vertically, like records. This reduces the chance of breaking them, especially when wrapped in towels or bubble wrap. Same thing goes for your glasses, keep them in vertical position to prevent breaking.

11. Use Clothes to Cushion Items

Clothes can double as padding for fragile items, saving you both packing space and money on bubble wrap. Wrap delicate items in T-shirts, sweaters, or scarves.

12. Make Handles on Boxes

Cut small handholds on the sides of heavier boxes for an easier grip when carrying. Just be careful to only do this for sturdy boxes that can handle the weight! Such as DOUBLE wall cardboard boxes.

13. Bundle Hanging Clothes with Garbage Bags

Leave clothes on hangers and pull a garbage bag up from the bottom, tying it around the tops of the hangers. This makes unpacking easier—just hang them up and remove the bag!

14. Keep Drawers Full

If your dresser drawers aren’t too heavy, consider keeping them full and wrapping them in stretch wrap. This saves you from having to unpack and repack items later. Also remember if it’s heavy for you, it possibly going to be heavy for your movers. Keep in mind this tip is recommended for smaller and very light furniture.

15. Label Boxes on the Side, Not the Top

When boxes are stacked, it’s easier to read labels if they’re on the side. Write down contents or room locations on each side so you can spot what you need without moving boxes around.

Final Thoughts

Packing doesn’t have to be stressful! With these DIY packing hacks, you’ll be more organized, save space, and make moving day much easier. For more moving tips or help with your next big move, reach out to us – we're here to help make your move as smooth as possible.