Residential – Comprehensive Guide on How to Pack

Before the big move, making sure everything is packed up properly can save you a ton of time and stress. If you’re planning to handle the packing yourself instead of having MSI do it for you, this guide is here to help! We’ve put together a collection of practical tips and tricks to keep things organized, protect your belongings, and make the whole process as smooth as possible. By following these packing strategies, you can cut down on clutter, avoid last-minute chaos, and make unpacking in your new home a breeze. Let’s get started!

1. Preparing to Pack

Proper preparation is key to an efficient and stress-free move. Taking the time to declutter, organize, and gather the necessary supplies will help streamline the packing process and ensure everything arrives safely at your new home. Follow these steps to get started:

1. Declutter & Purge – Moving is the perfect time to lighten your load by getting rid of unnecessary items. Sort through your belongings and decide what to donate, sell, or discard. Reducing clutter before packing will save you time, money, and stress on moving day. Mover Services Inc. (MSI) recommends tackling this step first to make the entire packing process more efficient.
2. Create an Inventory – Keep track of your belongings by creating a detailed inventory of everything you plan to move. This checklist will help ensure that nothing gets left behind and can also guide you in estimating the number of boxes and packing materials needed. Consider using Microsoft Excel or other inventory software. MSI provides a complimentary inventory assessment during your initial walkthrough and will recommend the necessary packing supplies based on your household’s needs.
3. Collect Packing Materials – Stock up on essential packing materials such as boxes, tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, padding, markers, labels, and box cutters. MSI provides all necessary packing materials and will estimate how much you need. Plus, any unused materials can be returned for a refund, ensuring you only pay for what you use.
4. Create a Packing Timeline – A well-structured packing plan prevents last-minute chaos. Instead of rushing to pack everything the day before your move, break it down into manageable steps. Packing a few boxes each day will keep the process stress-free and organized. Establish a realistic timeline and stick to it. This way, you’ll stay on track and avoid feeling overwhelmed as moving day approaches.

1. General Packing Pointers

Packing efficiently will make the moving process smoother and unpacking much easier. These general packing guidelines will help you stay organized and protect your belongings throughout the move.

1. Pack One Room at a Time – Packing room by room keeps the process organized and efficient. Start with less frequently used spaces and work your way toward the rooms you use daily. We recommend this order: Attic/Basement/Garage → Guest Rooms → Living Room/Dining Room → Kitchen → Bedrooms → Bathrooms.
2. Group Similar Items Together – Packing like items together makes unpacking easier and helps maintain organization in your new home. Avoid mixing unrelated items to simplify the setup process.
3. Pack Strategically – Place heavier items at the bottom of the box and lighter items on top to prevent damage. When choosing box sizes, follow this rule: the heavier the item, the smaller the box. This makes lifting and transporting safer and more manageable.
4. Label your Boxes Clearly – For efficient unpacking and organization, clearly mark each box with the room it’s intended for, its contents, and the box number. Use the format: “(Room) – (Contents) – (Box #).” If the box contains fragile items, be sure to label it “FRAGILE” on all sides. For boxes containing liquids, write “This End Up” to ensure proper handling. Maintain a carton identification log to track the number of boxes for each room and the total number packed. You may also want to include a special notes section in your log to document high-value items or specific handling instructions. To make the unloading process even easier, consider using color-coded labels by assigning a different color for each room (e.g., blue for the kitchen, red for the bedroom). This will speed up the unpacking and help you organize your new home quickly and efficiently.
5. Create an Essentials Suitcase – Pack an “open first” suitcase with essentials you’ll need immediately after your move, such as clothing, toiletries, medications, chargers, and important documents. This ensures you’re not searching through boxes for necessities.
6. Items You Should Keep with you – Important Documents, Cash and Coins, Jewelry and Furs, Plants, and prescription medications and other valuables. 
7. Items you Cannot Pack – Hazardous materials, perishable items, flammable substances, compressed gases, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives, radioactive material and explosives.

1. Packing Materials

When packing for your move, using the right materials ensures your belongings stay protected. Below is a guide to commonly used packing supplies and their purposes:

1. Standard Moving Boxes:
   1. 1.5 Cubic Foot Cartons (Book Cartons) – Small, sturdy boxes ideal for heavy items like books, documents, and small appliances.
   2. 3.0 Cubic Cartons – Medium-sized boxes ideal for general household items, such as kitchenware and decor.
   3. 4.5 Cubic Foot Cartons – Large boxes for lightweight, bulkier household items like linens, pillows, and clothing.
   4. 6.0 Cubic Foot Cartons – Extra-large boxes for oversized, lightweight items such as bedding and cushions.
2. Specialty Boxes:
   1. Dishpack Boxes – Sturdy, reinforced boxes designed for fragile items such as dishes, glassware, and China.
   2. Wardrobe Cartons – Tall boxes with a built-in metal bar for hanging clothes, keeping them wrinkle-free during the move.
   3. Mattress Cartons/Bags – Protective covers that shield mattresses from dirt, moisture, and damage.
   4. Mirror or Picture Cartons – Adjustable boxes designed to fit and protect mirrors, framed artwork, and other flat, fragile items.
   5. TV Cartons – Specially designed boxes that provide secure padding for TVs to prevent damage in transit.
3. Packing Materials:
   1. Packing Tape – Essential for securely sealing boxes to keep items safe.
   2. Packing Paper/Newspaper/Newsprint– Provides cushioning for fragile items inside boxes.
   3. Paper Pads – Thick, padded paper used for extra protection around delicate glass and fragile items.
   4. Bubble Wrap – A protective material that adds cushioning to fragile and breakable items.
4. Additional Packing Supplies:
   1. Pens & Markers – Permanent markers for clearly labeling boxes with contents and destination rooms.
   2. Specialty Packing Materials – Additional materials may be available depending on your packing needs. Ask your MSI move consultant for recommendations on any specialty items that may help protect your belongings.

1. Packing Dishware

Properly packing dishware is essential to prevent breakage during your move. Using the right materials and techniques will help protect fragile items and ensure they arrive safely. 

1. General Rules for Packing Dishware – Always line the bottom, top, and sides of your boxes with packing paper for added protection. Place larger, heavier items at the bottom and lighter, more delicate items on top. When layering, use approximately 3 to 4 inches of packing paper or cardboard between layers for cushioning. Wrap each fragile piece individually for extra protection. While dishpacks are the preferred boxes for dishware, small or medium boxes can also be used if properly padded.

1. Plates and Flat China – Wrap each plate individually with several layers of packing paper. Once wrapped, group three to five plates together and wrap the bundle in a double layer of packing paper. Always place plates on their edge in the box—never lay them flat. Secure the bundle with packing tape for added stability. Bonus Tip: If you have paper or Styrofoam plates, place these in between your fragile plates for added protection.
2. Glassware and Crystal – Wrap each piece individually and never nest one piece inside another. Glassware and crystal should be placed on the top layer of the box, with rims facing downward. Extra fragile pieces should be packed in a separate carton with plenty of cushioning to minimize movement.
3. Bowls – Wrap each bowl individually before nesting two to three together. Then, wrap the entire set as one package. Bowls can be placed on their side or flat, following the same layering technique used for plates and China.
4. Glasses & Cups – Individually wrap all glasses and cups. For cups with handles, provide extra cushioning around the handle with additional layers of paper. Pack rim down and use the same cushioning and layering method as glassware or crystal to prevent damage.
   1. Silverware & Utensils — Sturdy silverware can be wrapped in small bundles. Larger utensils should be wrapped in packing paper to prevent scratches. For valuable silverware, consider using cloth pouches or anti-tarnish paper to protect against oxidation during storage.

1. Packing Household Items

Proper packing techniques help ensure your household items remain safe and undamaged during the move. Below are guidelines for packing common household belongings. If you have questions about specific items not listed, don’t hesitate to contact us.

1. Mirrors, Paintings, and Pictures — Contact MSI if you have any valuable or unique artwork requiring special care. Wrap mirrors, framed pictures, and paintings individually, then place them upright in mirror/picture cartons. Movers will carefully disassemble large wall or dresser mirrors and pack them in special cartons. For added safety, apply tape diagonally across the glass to help prevent shattering. Avoid placing packing paper directly against oil paintings. For oversized or valuable artwork, consider having a custom crate built for extra protection.

1. Lamps and Lampshades — Remove bulbs, harps, and shades before packing. Wrap the bulb and harp assembly separately. Roll up the cord and pack lamp bases upright in a dishpack or similar-sized box, using padding for support. Choose a carton that closely fits the size of each lampshade, packing only one per container. Avoid using crumpled paper inside or around shades. Glass lampshades and chandeliers should be professionally packed in sturdy crates.
2. Major Appliances – Many appliances require servicing and preparation before moving. MSI can coordinate professional servicing upon request, or you may handle it yourself.
   1. Refrigerators & Freezers – Empty all food, secure or remove shelves, unplug and tape the electric cord to the back. Icemakers should be disconnected from the water line and drained ahead of time.
   2. Washing Machines – Disconnect hoses and place them in a carton. If placing them in the drum, wrap metal couplings in cloth or paper to prevent scratching. Top-loading drums should be secured, and front-loading washers require manufacturer bolts. If missing, contact the dealer for replacements.
   3. Dryers – Remove the vent hose and tape the cord to the back.
3. Small Appliances – Individually wrap clocks, radios, and other small appliances before packing them with linens or towels for cushioning. Alternatively, surround them with crumpled packing paper to prevent shifting.
4. Electronics – Original manufacturer packaging is ideal for transporting electronics. If unavailable, pack them in large or medium cartons with plenty of protective padding. Larger home electronics—such as plasma, LCD, and flat-panel TVs—should be placed in TV cartons or crated for maximum safety.
5. Drapes and Curtains — Drape fabric items over crossbars in wardrobe cartons or fold them neatly in clean boxes lined with packing paper.
6. Bedding – To prevent damage and dirt, mattresses should be covered with protective mattress bags or boxes, available through MSI.
7. Books – Pack books in small boxes, alternating their orientation (open edge vs. binding) to balance weight. Similar-sized books should be grouped together. Wrap hardcover or fragile books individually for added protection.
8. Tools — Drain fuel and oil from power tools before packing. Do not transport flammable items. Use small, strong cartons to pack tools, wrapping valuable items separately to prevent damage.
   1. Canned Goods and Other Non-Frozen Food — While transporting food is generally discouraged, it can be packed if necessary. Place cans upright in small cartons with no more than 24-30 cans per box. Wrap glass containers and boxed goods individually to prevent breakage.
   2. Grandfather Clocks — Secure or remove the pendulum and weights in large clocks before transport. Expert servicing is recommended to properly prepare the clock for moving. MSI offers Grandfather Clock Boxes or Crating for added protection.
   3. Medicines — Seal medicine bottle caps with masking tape, then wrap and pack them upright in small cartons. Keep any essential medications with you during travel.
   4. Waterbed Mattresses — Drain all water from the mattress before folding 20 inches at a time, adjusting folds to avoid creases in internal baffles. Refer to the owner’s manual for detailed instructions. Do not pack the mattress with sharp or pointed objects.
   5. Barbecue Grills and Propane Tanks — Wrap grates and briquettes separately in packing paper or place all briquettes in a sealed bag before packing them in a carton. Add padding to minimize shifting. Propane tanks must be emptied before transport.

9.  Packing Pro Tips

Make your move smoother and more organized with these expert packing strategies:

1. Maximize Suitcases and Bags – Save box space by packing clothing, shoes, and soft items in suitcases, duffel bags, and backpacks. This not only reduces the number of boxes but also makes transporting these items more convenient.
2. Rolls Clothes to Save Space – Rather than folding clothes, try rolling them to maximize space in your boxes or suitcases. This method also helps reduce wrinkles.
3. Fill Empty Spaces in Boxes – Avoid items shifting during the move by filling gaps in boxes with small items like crumpled paper, socks, or towels. This will keep everything secure and prevent damage.
4. Use Towels, Blankets and Rugs for Padding – Rather than packing bulky blankets and towels separately, use them as padding to protect fragile items. Wrap these soft materials around furniture or use them to cushion delicate boxes.
5. Protect Liquids from Leaking – For toiletries, cleaning supplies, or pantry liquids, remove the lid, place plastic wrap over the opening, then screw the lid back on. Store bottles in a sealed plastic bag to prevent spills.
6. Reinforce Boxes with Heavy Items – Double tape the bottom of boxes that will hold books, dishes, or other heavy items to prevent them from breaking under the weight.
7. Take Pictures of Complex Setups – Before disconnecting TVs, electronics, or complicated furniture, take clear pictures of the cord setup, wiring, and connections. This will make reassembly much easier in your new home.
8. Keep Hardware Organized – When disassembling furniture, store screws, bolts, and small hardware in a labeled zip-top bag. Secure the bag to the corresponding furniture piece using tape to ensure nothing gets lost.