Moving to a new home is an exciting chapter, but packing for the big move can be a stressful and overwhelming process. At Lewis & Michael Moving & Storage, we understand the challenges of packing up a household, whether you’re relocating locally, across the country, or internationally. With over 70 years of experience, we’ve helped thousands of families and businesses move with ease. To help you prepare, we’ve compiled five essential tips to make your packing process smoother and more efficient, with insights from our professional movers.
1. Start Early and Make a Plan
One of the biggest mistakes people make is waiting until the last minute to start packing. Begin packing at least a month in advance, starting with items you don’t use frequently. Create a detailed packing plan that includes a timeline, packing goals, and a checklist. Divide your packing into manageable chunks, such as room-by-room packing, and set daily or weekly targets to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Tip: Use apps like Sortly or Moving Checklist Pro to track inventory and streamline your packing process.
2. Declutter and Donate
Before you start boxing up your belongings, take the time to declutter. Moving is a perfect opportunity to get rid of items you no longer need. Sort through your possessions and decide what to keep, donate, or throw away. Reducing the number of items you pack not only saves you time but can also save money on moving costs, especially for long-distance moves.
3. Pack Smart and Label Everything
How you pack your boxes is just as important as what you pack. Start by gathering high-quality packing supplies like sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, and tape. Use appropriate-sized boxes for different items—heavier items like books should go in smaller boxes, while lighter items like pillows can go in larger boxes. Be mindful of not overpacking to avoid damaging your belongings during the move. For fragile items like glassware and electronics, use specialized boxes like dish packs or crates. Label every box with its contents and the room it belongs to in your new home. This will make unpacking much easier, especially after a long day of moving.
4. Pack Essentials Separately
When moving, it’s important to have easy access to your everyday necessities. Pack an essentials box or suitcase with items you’ll need immediately upon arrival at your new home. This should include toiletries, a change of clothes, chargers, medications, and basic kitchen supplies.
Pro Tip: We’ve seen customers pack a small toolkit or phone chargers in their essentials box—something they were grateful for during their first night in their new home.
5. Hire Professional Movers for the Heavy Lifting
While packing can be handled with the right planning, moving heavy furniture and large items is best left to professionals. Lewis & Michael Moving & Storage offers experienced movers who are trained in safely handling bulky items and navigating tight spaces. We’ve handled everything from delicate antiques to bulky pianos, ensuring that all items reach their destination safely. We also provide furniture disassembly and reassembly services, taking even more of the burden off your shoulders. Whether you’re moving a few blocks away or across the globe, our certified team ensures that your belongings are handled with care.
Packing for a big move doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Lewis & Michael Moving & Storage has been helping families and businesses move for over 70 years, and our dedication to customer satisfaction ensures that your move will be as smooth and stress-free as possible.
If you’re preparing for a big move, don’t go it alone. Contact Lewis & Michael Moving & Storage today for a free quote and consultation! Call us at (937) 555-1234 or visit our website to learn more.
