Are you planning to move and do you want to pack your moving boxes in a practical way? We at Moving are happy to show you how to do this. Here you will discover tips for packing, a clear packing plan and a handy step-by-step plan for packing and moving. We will discuss which items you should pack first and how to safely transport heavy items or fragile objects. We will also explain when you can start packing and how to prevent your moving day from turning into a mess. Read on quickly and be inspired by our tips.
Why is the packing order for moving so important?
You don’t want boxes and furniture to get mixed up. That’s why packing in the right order helps to create order during a move. It prevents chaos in the moving van and ensures that you know exactly where to put your fragile items. I remember once when someone had lost his coffee machine. He had put it between duvet covers in an unused room. He only found it after a week. Of course, you want to avoid something like that. By using our moving checklist, you can prevent that and keep control of your belongings.
Moving Checklist for Packing and Preparation
Smart packing: packing tips
The secret to smart packing is working step by step. You will get the most done when you tackle room by room. Don't just throw everything haphazardly into boxes. Always keep track of what you are doing and avoid mixing towels, wardrobe items and breakables.
1. Packing moving boxes? Place heavy items at the bottom of the box
Think of books or collections of magazines. That makes the box more stable. When you move, you don't want things to get damaged.
2. Use wrapping paper, towels and newspaper
Wrap dishes in soft layers. This prevents cracking during transport. This way you can pack boxes smartly. It is also always wise to start packing early.
3. Label each moving box by room
Note down what is in it and which room it goes to. That way you know immediately where to put it in your new home. That way you also count the number of moving boxes and you can pass this on to the movers. In addition to packing things, you also have to think about many other things.
Types of moving boxes: which one do you choose?
Not every box is the same. Standard moving boxes are suitable for lightweight items. Book boxes are ideal for heavy book collections. Professional moving boxes often have extra reinforcement. Some people use plastic crates to prevent moisture and tears. Not sure how many moving boxes you need? Count on 10 to 15 boxes per room. This of course depends on your belongings. We often hear that people underestimate how much stuff they actually have. Start estimating in time and make a list per room. This way you can quickly see how many moving boxes you need.
| Type of box | Feature | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|
| Standard moving box | Single or double cardboard layer | Clothing or light kitchen utensils |
| Book box | Extra sturdy and smaller | Heavy items such as books |
| Wardrobe box | With hanging rod | Clothes you don't want to fold |
| Plastic crate | Water and tear resistant | Fragile items or electronics |
Moving and packing checklist
Step 1: smart packing for moving & preparations
Your first step is to create an overview. Walk through all the rooms and decide if there are any items that you are not taking with you. Donate or sell what you can get rid of. This will make packing and moving a lot easier. Then take some time to get moving boxes and packing materials. Think of newspaper, tape and felt-tip pens. Discuss with your family members who will pack which room. This way you prevent everyone from working in the same space at the same time. Also take a good look at how many moving boxes are needed. This way everyone can start packing moving boxes.
Step 2: Tips for packing your belongings
You prefer to pack your things in phases:
- For example, start with the attic: There are usually things there that you don't use very often.
- Go room by room: Take time to organize. Use a checklist or make your own list. For example, start with your wardrobe. Often you have clothes that you don't use every day.
- Put fragile items and valuables in separate boxes: Provide extra protection for these.
- Use towels as padding: Place them between glasses and fragile dishes. This will absorb shocks.
An acquaintance of mine once stuffed his favorite vase in a box of toys. He thought it was a waste to use an extra box. Later the vase was in pieces. Prevent that and always pack fragile objects carefully.
Step 3: Packing the truck during the move
Are you all packed? Then it's time to load the moving van. Place the heaviest furniture and boxes in the back against the walls. Fill the empty spaces with lighter items such as bedding. Make sure that fragile glassware does not get stuck between large boxes. This will keep your belongings safe while you are on your way to your new address.
Step 4: Unload the car again
When you arrive at your new home, place each box in the right room right away. This will save you hassle later. Always have your helpers look at the labels on the boxes. Make it clear that they follow the same labels that you have applied. This way, you don't have to lug each box to a different place afterwards.
Compare quotes with moving
A big move involves a lot. You may decide to hire a moving company. We recommend that you compare quotes. This way you can see immediately which party meets your needs and budget. You can also consider renting moving boxes from the same company. This often saves money.
Considerable price differences between movers
Every moving company charges different rates. Sometimes you pay per hour. Sometimes you pay a fixed amount for the entire job. Therefore, feel free to request three or more quotes. That will give you insight into the price differences. Pay attention to any additional costs. Think of parking permits or extra moving help if you live in an upstairs apartment.
What should you pay attention to when packing?
1. Use sturdy boxes and good packing materials
Choose professional moving boxes or sturdy alternatives. This way you can best move your belongings in moving boxes.
2. Packing the moving boxes. Place heavy items at the bottom of the box
This keeps the box stable and prevents tears. Look carefully at each box to see what you want to pack. The best way to do this is to sort everything first.
3. Label each box room by room
Clearly write down which room or what kind of stuff is in it. That way you know approximately how many moving boxes you need for the move.
4. Keep cables away from your electronics
There is nothing more annoying than losing your charger or HDMI cable. When you start packing, you can start by packing the cables properly by making a separate box for them.
Sometimes you see in movies how someone quickly throws everything in the suitcase. In real life that is not recommended. You lose the overview and your stuff gets damaged.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many moving boxes and packing materials do you need?
That depends on the amount of stuff. We recommend an average of ten to fifteen boxes per room. Better to take a few extra so you don't run out. Are there moving boxes that you can't use? Then you can sell your extra moving boxes on Marktplaats later.
When should I start packing? On moving day or months in advance?
Start with non-daily items one to two months in advance. Start earlier if you have a large house. So don't wait until moving day itself! Kitchen items that you don't use often are best packed in advance. This way you can pack items in advance. Are there items that you use daily? Then it is best to pack these last to avoid inconvenience.
Do I have to transport fragile tableware separately or can it go in the moving van?
This is not always necessary, but make sure you have enough protection and put it on top of the moving van. Loading and unloading the moving van is something that has to be done in a certain order. When loading the moving van, you take the items that are larger and heavier first to load into the truck. By putting lighter items on top of the heavy items, you ensure that there is less chance of damage.
Helpful tips to save time and money
- Start making a moving checklist in time. You will save stress in the last week.
- Pack moving boxes with recycled materials. Old newspapers, cloths and foam flakes are ideal. Towels are also nice to pack with.
- Consider renting moving boxes if you don't want to purchase too many.
- Roll clothes instead of folding them. This saves space and wrinkles. The rest of your stuff is best packed last.
Common mistakes in packing order for moving
- Do not label. People find it annoying when they have no idea where certain boxes should go. When you hire a mover, it is very wise to label the boxes so that the movers know exactly what is in them and where it should go. For example, put the name of the room on the boxes.
- Everything at the last minute. This is how you run into deadlines and stress.
- Heavy items together in one box. This results in torn boxes or back problems.
- Forgetting what you need every day. Keep those things separate. That way you can find them quickly on moving day.
How do you deal with special situations?
Special circumstances can make your move more complicated, but it can often be arranged:
- Moving with children: Give them their own box to pack in. This will keep them involved and occupied.
- Moving abroad: Check customs regulations and remember to bring sufficient packing material.
- Moving from an old apartment: Reserve the lift or consider a moving elevatorInform the neighbours in a timely manner to limit nuisance.
After the move: unpack in the correct order
Prioritize your bedroom and bathroom. After all, you want to be able to sleep in your new home and have your stuff ready in the bathroom. Then work your way through each room. That way, you keep an overview. Be careful not to dump everything in the living room, because then you will have to move it again later.
Your best packing order for moving
A smooth packing sequence moving starts with a tight plan. You make it easier for yourself by working room by room and putting labels on each moving box. By emptying the attic or storage room first, you create space and peace in your home. We at Moving have seen over the years that this is the most streamlined approach. It makes moving a lot less stressful. We hope you get started with this and wish you much success with your new home.
Moving is happy to help you
Do you have any questions or would you like to expand our packing moving tips with your own experiences? Please let us know. Respond below or share your story. We would love to hear how you determined your number of boxes and which packing tips you find valuable. We at Moving are ready to help so that your move goes smoothly. Good luck and above all enjoy the new start at your new address. Move with Moving! On our website we share our best tips regarding moving.
