One of the most challenging parts of moving is actually getting started. But by planning what to pack first when moving in a systematic order, you can avoid procrastination and stay organized during the busiest times of the move.

Moving into a new home can be overwhelming, as there are many things you need to do. However, things get lighter when you start packing early. You can always start packing things you won’t need weeks before your moving day. In this blog, we will discuss what to pack first when moving.

What to Pack First When Moving

To make the moving process less stressful, it is better to start packing things early. Things you should pack first are things you need the least or things you will not use during the last few weeks before your move. Here are some items to pack first when moving.

1. Storage Items

Your items in the storage space are the first thing you need to pack when moving. They are easy to pack, as they most likely will be in boxes. You also won’t have the need to use these things in the interim period of your move, so you can pack them once and for all and keep them ready for loading.

Just make sure to keep them organized, by labeling and stacking them properly. The fewer the boxes are, the easier your move will be.

2. Out-Of-Season Clothes

Among the things to pack first when moving are out-of-season clothes. You may have some seasonal clothing, such as winter clothes. You would not need these clothes if your move happens during summer, so you can pack winter clothes first.

Just like storage items, even out-of-season clothes will most likely be in boxes or properly stored. You won’t have to declutter them, as you probably would have done that when you packed them at the end of the season.

But if you haven’t yet, you can use this time to sort your clothes and decide which ones to keep and which ones to let go of. It is better that the clothes you bring to your new home are clothes you will still use, as clothes you will no longer use may just take up some space in your new house.

3. Fine China

There is a good chance that you won’t really be hosting any parties during your move. This makes fine china a perfect item that you can get started packing before the move and without a hassle.

You also need enough time to pack these items, as they should be packed carefully. As they are fragile, you might have to pack them carefully using special materials like newspaper paper, towels, and packaging papers. Make sure to label them as fragile, so they are handled accordingly during the move.

4. Decorative and Art Pieces

While the artwork has its own set of packaging rules to keep them in good condition, they are definitely one of the things you need to pack first when moving. You will need enough time to pack decorative and art pieces.

Packing them way before the last minute helps you give them proper care when packing and also reduces the tendency to forget them on a moving day. By putting them on the things to pack first when moving, you can make sure all the decorations make it to your new house in good condition.

5. Knick-Knacks

Knick-knacks are also among the things to pack first when moving. We all have knick-knacks that we hold close to our hearts or those that have an emotional value more than any other items in the house.

It is very important to pack these first, as waiting for too long can easily overwhelm you and make you forget things. Additionally, having small pieces scattered throughout the house at the last minute can disorganize your whole moving process.

If you have already assigned storage units or containers for these knick-knacks at your house, then it is even easier to pack and keep them ready to move.

6. Extra Linens and Towels

This is another thing that is perfect to put at the top of your packing list when moving out. You mostly will not be changing your sheets or using many towels during the move. So, it gives enough time for you to properly pack these extra linens and towels and save yourself some time on a moving day.

Now remember, what you should pack first are extra linens and towels. Make sure to save just enough linens and towels for the last weeks before your moving day.

7. Books

If you or your family members are avid readers then you probably would have dozens of books all around the house. You can keep just one or two books to keep you occupied during downtimes and pack the rest with proper care.

This will also give you enough time to give away any books you have borrowed and to donate or give away books that you may no longer need. This will reduce the number of packaging boxes you’ll have when moving as well.

Remember, you need to pack your books properly for moving. You need enough time to pack your books properly for your move, so it is better to start early. Additionally, just remember to use small boxes for your books. This is better than using one big box for all your books, as one big heavy box can be very difficult to transport.

Final Thoughts on What to Pack First When Moving

It is always better to begin packing early for your move. It will make the moving process less stressful, and you can also pack things carefully, especially fragile items.

You can start packing items that you use the least or items that you will not use in the last weeks before your move. Things to pack first when moving include items in storage, out-of-season clothes, fine china, decorative and art pieces, knick-knacks, extra linens and towels, and books.

Items in storage are easy, as they are already in boxes. Pack out-of-season clothes, as you may not be needing them during the move. Make sure to pack fine china and artwork carefully and handle them with care.

Pack extra linens and towels early and save some before your moving day. Remember to pack books in small boxes for easy transportation. Start packing early and begin by packing these items first.