Packing Supplies Checklist
The right supplies prevent the two most common problems: boxes tearing and items shifting. You don’t need a mountain of bubble wrap—you need consistency.
- Small, medium, and large boxes
- Packing paper (great for dishes and glass)
- Quality packing tape + tape gun
- Thick markers / labels
- Stretch wrap (drawers, cords, bundles)
- Mattress bags
- TV box or TV protection
- Dish packs (for large kitchens)
- Corner protectors (furniture + frames)
- Reusable totes for essentials
If you’d rather have a crew handle the high-risk packing, see packing services.
Packing Timeline (2–4 Weeks)
The easiest way to pack is to reduce decisions: pack a little every day, starting with non-daily items. If you’re not sure what to do first, the Moving Checklist provides a broader timeline.
- Pack decor, books, and rarely used items
- Declutter closets and donate/throw away
- Start packing a few boxes per day
- Order supplies and schedule movers
- Pack most of the kitchen (leave a “survival set”)
- Pack bathroom backups and extra towels
- Label priority boxes clearly
- Confirm access details and timing
- Pack daily essentials last
- Stage boxes by room to speed loading
- Keep documents, meds, and valuables with you
- Prepare cleaning supplies for the final wipe-down
A Labeling System That Works
Most people label boxes, but not in a way that helps. A good label tells you where the box goes and how urgently it should be opened.
ROOM — PRIORITY — QUICK NOTE
Examples:
- Kitchen — 1 — plates
- Bathroom — 1 — toiletries
- Bedroom — 2 — closet
- Living Room — 3 — decor
Fragile Items: Dishes, Glass, TVs
Fragile packing is all about preventing movement. Items break when they collide or shift inside a box.
- Wrap each piece individually
- Fill empty space (no shifting)
- Keep weight manageable
- Mark FRAGILE + THIS SIDE UP
More detail: packing fragile items safely.
- Use a proper TV box if possible
- Protect corners and avoid pressure points
- Keep cables in a labeled bag
- Transport upright when feasible
Room-by-Room Strategy
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, pick one room and finish it completely before starting another. Momentum is your friend.
Pack non-daily items first. Keep a small “survival kitchen” box for the last day: plates, cups, utensils, coffee, and basic cookware.
Use wardrobe boxes or vacuum bags for clothing. Keep bedding accessible so you can make your bed the first night.
Bundle cords with stretch wrap, label them, and keep remotes together. Protect corners on furniture before moving through doorways.
Packing is only half the story—pair this with the Moving Day Guide for a smooth execution.