Moving & Packing Tips You Need To Know When Moving House

Packing can often feel like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be!

With the proper preparation and these practical packing tips, you’ll ease the stress and ensure your house move goes smoothly.

Did you know that, despite moving home roughly four times during their lives, one in four UK residents finds packing to be one of life’s most stressful events?

A recent survey found that 57% of Brits rank moving house as the most stressful life event!

With careful planning and expert packing tips, you’ll avoid unnecessary hassle.

Below, we’ve included helpful room-by-room guidance, as well as suggestions for creating your essential moving-day box.

1. Sensible Packing Tips for Your Move

• Start Early – Write a checklist and an inventory to keep organised.
• Buy Quality Moving Boxes – Source sturdy boxes in various sizes from your removals company or collect free ones from supermarkets or friends.
• Tackle One Room at a Time – Follow our room-by-room guide below.
• Declutter Thoroughly – The fewer items you move, the easier the process and the lower the cost.
• Donate or Sell Unwanted Items – Utilise free online apps like Shpock or eBay to declutter and potentially earn some extra money.
• Label Clearly – Colour-code boxes to easily identify contents and rooms at a glance.
• Protect Your Valuables – Use packing paper, bubble wrap, or blankets to secure your valuables. Specialist crates can safeguard heavier valuables.
• Fill Gaps Properly – Newspapers or magazines can be used to cushion items within boxes.
• Avoid Overloading Boxes – Keep boxes manageable in weight to prevent breakages.
• Pack an Essentials Box – Include all you’ll need for your first day and night (more details below).

2. Packing Tips: Room by Room

Packing each room methodically can drastically simplify your move. Here’s how:

Kitchen Packing Tips:

• Pack dishes vertically with protective padding.
• Wrap sharp knives carefully, blade side facing away from you.
• Stack pans with padding in between and wrap glasses securely.

Bathroom Packing Tips:

• Safely discard expired medications and hazardous materials (removals companies typically won’t transport these).
• Clean items thoroughly before packing.

Bedroom Packing Tips:

• Roll linens and duvets into original storage bags if possible.
• Protect mattresses using stretch wrap and consider wardrobe boxes to move clothes directly on hangers.

Living Room Packing Tips:

• Dismantle furniture carefully; attach loose hardware in sealed bags to the furniture itself.
• Transport your TV in its original packaging if available; otherwise, use robust protection like bubble wrap.
• Specialist items (like pianos) should be moved in bespoke crates provided by removals experts.

Garden, Shed & Garage Tips:

• Protect plants in sturdy containers, removing excess soil.
• Dispose of hazardous substances (paint, chemicals) safely.
• Wrap garden tools and ornaments securely in padded boxes.

3. Packing Tips for Your Essentials Box

One of the most valuable packing tips is creating an essentials box.

This should travel with you personally and include items for your first night:

• Toiletries and hygiene products
• Non-perishable snacks and drinks
• First-aid supplies
• Toilet rolls and kitchen towels
• Kettle, tea, coffee
• Disposable plates, cups, and cutlery
• Essential medication
• Cleaning products
• Fresh clothes
• Electronic devices and chargers
• Children’s entertainment or essential items

Pack half of this box in advance, leaving room for last-minute additions.

4. When Should You Call the Removal Experts?

Professional packing is a highly skilled process, particularly for fragile and high-value items.

At GoodMove, we specialise in expertly handling removals across Essex, the UK, and internationally.

With over 35 years of experience, we understand how to pack your belongings safely, efficiently, and stress-free.

When hiring us, you’ll gain access to our extensive resources and equipment, making your move seamless. We supply quality packing materials, including:

• Purpose-made boxes
• Packing paper and acid-free wrap
• Book cartons and bespoke crates
• Portable wardrobes
• Wine bottle dividers

If you’re considering professional packing services, don’t hesitate to contact us at GoodMove.

You can contact our team, interact with Brad, our AI Removals Assistant, at the bottom right of this page or simply complete our quick quote form.

Let us take care of the packing so that you can look forward to your new home without the hassle!