How To Pack Boxes For Moving House
To pack boxes for moving house, start by organising your items, use strong boxes and plenty of padding, label everything, and pack heavier items at the bottom.
Packing up your entire home can feel like a big task - but it doesn’t have to be. With a bit of planning and the right packing materials, you can make the process a lot less stressful.
Whether you're moving just down the street or across the country, knowing how to pack properly can save you time, protect your stuff and make settling into your new place that much easier.
How Do I Start Packing To Move House?
The first step to packing for a move is decluttering. Go through your stuff and decide what’s worth taking with you.
Selling, donating, or throwing away items you no longer need can seriously lighten your load...and your moving costs. Less clutter means fewer boxes, less stress, and an easier time settling into your new place.
Once you've stripped down your stuff, it's time to stock up on quality packing materials.
Solid boxes, strong tape, bubble wrap, and markers for labelling are must-haves. Choose box sizes that suit the weight and fragility of your items to avoid any damage during the move.
Need packing supplies? The Box Co. has you covered with everything you need for a smooth move. Just get in touch with us, pick what you need, and we’ll handle the rest.
What Is The Best Way To Pack Boxes For Moving?
Packing boxes for a house move the right way can save you time, money, and stress. To make sure your belongings arrive safely and your unpacking process is smooth, follow these tried-and-tested packing tips:
Choose the Right Size Moving Boxes
Use small boxes for heavy things like books and tools, and large boxes for lighter items like bedding, pillows, and lampshades. This keeps each box carryable and means you're less at risk of injury or breakage.
Label Every Box Clearly
Write the contents and the destination room on each box. Consider using colour-coded labels or numbering systems to find things quickly. Proper labelling makes loading, unloading, and unpacking faster and more organised.
Pack Boxes Tightly and Fill Gaps
Prevent your items moving during transit by filling empty spaces with packing paper, towels, or clothing. A snug fit helps protect your items and avoids damage caused by movement inside the box.
Wrap and Protect Fragile Items
Wrap delicate or breakable items individually using bubble wrap, packing paper, or foam. Place them in the centre of the box with soft materials around them to absorb any impact.
Seal Boxes with Quality Packing Tape
Seal the bottom and top seams with strong packing tape. For extra strength - especially for heavier boxes- tape around the edges as well.
By following these packing box tips for moving, you’ll keep your items safe and make the moving process far more efficient.
If you need more tips around moving, see our guide around 10 things to consider before moving house.
How Do You Pack Heavy Items Safely?
Packing heavy items for a house move usually means careful planning to keep your stuff safe.
Here’s how to pack heavy items properly and avoid common moving mishaps:
1. Use Small, Sturdy Boxes
Always pack heavy items like books, tools, and small kitchen appliances in smaller moving boxes. This keeps them manageable and reduces the risk of the box breaking or becoming too hard to lift.
2. Pack with Weight in Mind
Put heavier items at the bottom of the box and lighter items on top. This helps keep it balanced, prevents damage from falls, and makes the box more stable when stacked or carried.
3. Use Safe Lifting Techniques
When lifting heavy boxes, bend at the knees - not the waist - and keep the box close to your body. This means less strain on your back and less risk of injury.
4. Use Moving Equipment When Needed
A dolly or hand truck can make a huge difference when moving heavier items. For bulky or awkward loads, consider hiring professional movers who have the right tools and experience to handle the job safely.
By packing heavy items correctly, you’ll protect your belongings and make the moving process smoother from start to finish.
At The Box Co. our team of professional movers are here to make your move as easy as possible. From just £199 per move, we handle everything. Get in touch for your free quote today!
Do Movers Prefer Boxes or Bags?
Professional movers almost always prefer boxes over bags - and for good reason.
Boxes are easier to stack, making loading a van more efficient. Their structure also gives items better protection, meaning they are less likely to be damaged during transport. Plus, boxes can be sealed, keeping items safe throughout the move.
While bags can be useful for soft items like clothes, bedding or plush toys, they’re not that good for most household things. Boxes are a better option for anything fragile, bulky, or valuable.
For a smoother and safer move, stick with boxes whenever possible - your movers (and your things) will thank you.
Should I Put Clothes In Boxes When Moving?
Yes, putting clothes in boxes is a smart choice when moving house. Boxes help protect your clothing from dust, dirt, and potential damage during the move.
For hanging clothes, wardrobe boxes are a good option. These tall boxes come with a built-in rail, allowing you to move clothes directly from your wardrobe into the box. This keeps items wrinkle-free and saves time on packing and unpacking.
Folded clothes can go into standard moving boxes. To increase space, especially for bulky or out-of-season clothing, try using vacuum-sealed bags. These lower volume and help keep your items clean and organised.
Packing your clothes properly not only keeps them in good condition but also makes unpacking much easier at your new home.
How Long Before Moving House Should You Start Packing?
It’s best to start packing four to six weeks before your moving day. Start with items you won't need any time soon - like decorations, books, or out of season clothes.
As moving day gets closer, slowly increase your packing, working room by room. Leave only everyday essentials - like toiletries, basic kitchenware, and a few changes of clothes - until the final week.
This can help you stay organised, avoid last-minute chaos, and means nothing gets left behind.
How Do I Find The Best Moving Company for Me?
Finding the right moving company can make all the difference when it comes to your moving experience. To choose a mover you can trust, start by researching companies with strong review.
Look for positive feedback online and good insurance coverage too.
Next, compare quotes from different moving companies to find one that suits both your budget and your needs. Make sure the quote includes all relevant services - like packing, loading, and transport - so there are no surprises later.
At The Box Co., we offer competitive removal prices across the UK from just £199 per move. Our services include packaging and packing services designed to make your move as smooth and stress-free as possible. Get your personalised quote and see how we can help with your next move.
Packing For Your Move
Packing boxes for moving house doesn’t have to be stressful. With a bit of planning, the right materials, and a few smart packing strategies, you can keep your move organised and your things protected.
Start by decluttering and invest in good packing supplies. The more prepared you are, the smoother the moving process will be.
Remember - a little preparation goes a long way, and patience is key to settling into your new home with ease.
