Moving house soon? Huge congratulations - that “we’re actually doing this” feeling is real.
Now comes the part most people quietly dread: packing. The good news? You don’t need to be super organised or own a label maker worthy of a warehouse. You just need a plan that keeps things simple, stops breakages, and makes moving day feel less stressful.
Use our tried-and-tested packing tips to get sorted without the overwhelm.
1. Pack a “first week” essentials bag
Most people pack an overnight bag and still end up rummaging through boxes for socks, chargers, and shampoo. Make things easy, and pack for the first week instead.
Include things like:
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Toiletries, medication, and a small first-aid kit
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Phone chargers, extension leads, batteries
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A couple of outfits, pyjamas, socks
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Tea and coffee, snacks, reusable water bottle
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Basic cleaning supplies (wipes, bin bags, spray)
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Important documents (in a clearly labelled folder)
Shortcut: If you’re moving with children (or pets), pack a separate essentials bag for them too.
2. Wrap drawers with cling film and move them as they are
This one feels like cheating - but in the best way!
Instead of emptying every drawer, leave items inside and wrap the whole unit tightly with cling film so nothing slides out. It saves time and keeps things exactly where you left them.
Quick tip: Remove anything fragile (like perfume bottles) and anything heavy that could strain the drawer runners.
3. Make instant handles on cardboard boxes
Boxes are awkward. Handles make them far less annoying.
Cut small triangle or oval grips into the side panels of sturdy boxes so they’re easier to lift and carry.
Safety note: Don’t do this on boxes packed with very heavy items unless the cardboard is strong - you don’t want a handle ripping mid-lift.
4. Use wheeled suitcases for heavy items
Books, tools, gym weights… they’re box-destroyers!
Load heavier items into wheeled suitcases and roll them straight to the removal van. It’s easier on your back and helps prevent boxes splitting.
Shortcut: Keep boxes for lighter things (linen, cushions, clothes, soft toys). Use suitcases for “dense” items.
5. Use egg cartons for jewellery and tiny bits
Small items are often the most fiddly. Egg cartons are a brilliant hack for keeping things separate and protected.
Perfect for:
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Earrings, rings, cufflinks
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Screws/bolts from dismantled furniture
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Small craft items, pins, hair grips
Pop the carton inside a small box and wrap with cling film to keep it closed.
Bonus trick: Tape a note to the carton saying what it is and which room it belongs in.
6. Colour-code your boxes by room
Labelling is good. Colour-coding is better.
Pick a colour for each room (kitchen = green, bedroom = blue, etc.) and add a coloured sticker or marker stripe on every side of the box.
Moving-day win: Put a matching coloured note on each door in your new home. Anyone helping can drop boxes in the correct room without asking you where things should go!
7. Cover hanging clothes with bin bags and move them on hangers
Folding hanging clothes is time consuming. So, keep them on their hangers.
Group a handful together, slide a bin bag over them (from the bottom up), and tie the bag around the hooks at the top. Your clothes arrive clean, together, and ready to hang.
Shortcut: If you’ve got wardrobe boxes, even better - but bin bags still do the job nicely.
Let us help you find your next home
Now that you’re set with 7 practical packing tips that make moving day easier, let us help you find somewhere special to move into.
At The Property Experts, we have years of property experience. Call us on 0330 179 8180 to chat through what you’re looking for - we’ll be delighted to help. In the meantime, we've answered your common questions about packing for a house move.
FAQs: Packing for a House Move
When should I start packing?
Aim for 2–4 weeks before moving day. Start with things you don’t use often (out-of-season clothes, books, ornaments) and save every day items for the final week.
How many boxes do I need?
A quick guide:
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1–2 bedroom home: 30–60 boxes
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3 bedroom home: 60–100 boxes
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4 bedroom home: 100+ boxes
This varies based on storage, lifestyle, and how much you declutter.
What’s the best way to pack fragile items?
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Wrap items with packing paper or bubble wrap
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Use towels/clothes as extra padding
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Choose strong boxes (double-walled if possible)
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Pack snugly so nothing shifts
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Label FRAGILE on multiple sides
Should I pack myself or use a packing service?
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Packing service: best if you’re short on time or have lots of breakables
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DIY packing: cheaper, but allow extra time (it nearly always takes longer than expected)
How do I stop boxes getting too heavy?
Use small boxes for heavy items (books, tins, tools) and large boxes for light items (bedding, coats, cushions). If you can’t lift it comfortably, it’s too heavy.
What should I keep with me (not in the removal van)?
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Documents (ID, contracts, keys)
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Medication
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Valuables (jewellery, laptops)
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Anything you’d hate to be without if boxes arrive late
Any quick moving-day tips?
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Take photos of cable setups before unplugging
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Keep a mini toolkit handy (tape, scissors, screwdriver, marker)
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Label boxes with room and a quick contents note
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Keep kettle, mugs, tea/coffee and biscuits easy to reach
