Why It’s Important To Plan What You Pack First
You’ll save valuable time and effort if you decide what to pack first when moving. Packing non-essential belongings early allows you to spread out the packing so you don’t have to rush through it. It gives you the opportunity to declutter, donate, or discard what you don’t need before you pack the items you want to keep. When you pack strategically, you’ll reduce moving costs and can keep out what you need to use before moving day. Planning what you’re going to pack and when makes the entire task less overwhelming.
What To Pack First When Moving To A New House
One of the challenges when relocating is deciding what to pack first when moving to a new house. Start with things you don’t use on a daily basis, like seasonal clothing, decorative items, books, or hobby supplies. Packing these early will reduce the amount of clutter, while keeping essentials available until the last minute. Creating a structured plan will make the moving process smoother and less stressful for you.
What To Pack First When Moving To A New Apartment
The order of what to pack first when moving to an apartment will affect how quickly you can find what you need when you arrive at your new residence. Decluttering before moving into your new apartment lightens your load and ensures you can easily organize your new apartment from the get-go. After decluttering, it’s a good idea to start with items you rarely use and fragile possessions so they can be carefully packed, then move on to other belongings.
Room-by-Room Packing Order Guide
Living Room
- Pack decorative items (art, photos, knick‑knacks) first.
- Box up books, DVDs, and electronics you won’t need immediately.
- Leave daily‑use items like remotes and chargers for last.
Kitchen
- Start with rarely used appliances (slow cookers, blenders, specialty tools).
- Pack extra dishes, glassware, and serving platters.
- Keep everyday essentials—like a few plates, utensils, and a pan—until the final days.
Bedroom
- Begin with off‑season clothing and spare bedding.
- Pack shoes, accessories, and items stored under the bed.
- Pack nightstand essentials, toiletries, and clothing you may need last.
Bathroom
- Box up towels except the one you need and cleaning supplies first.
- Keep your toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and shampoo handy until moving day.
- Prepare a small “essentials bag” for immediate use.
Home Office
- Start with books and supplies you won’t need right away.
- Use protective padding when packing electronics.
- Keep important documents and daily‑use devices with you so they’re accessible if you need them.
Garage / Storage Areas
- Pack holiday decorations and sports equipment first.
- If you don’t often use items that are stored in bins or shelves, pack them up.
- Ensure cleaning supplies and basic tools are handy for moving day.
Smart Packing Tips To Stay Organized
If you want to be smart about packing and ensure it’s organized, sort all of your items into different categories. It’s easier to unpack if you pack this way. Label your boxes with their contents and add the room they belong in. If you break the packing process into smaller steps, you’ll avoid misplacing items and make your move more organized and efficient.
Austin-Specific Moving Tips
Austin’s neighborhoods vary, so you should get to know the parking situation for your new area, especially if you’re moving to an apartment. Street parking can be limited downtown and in East Austin. Reserve a parking spot so it’s available on moving day. Wider streets in Round Rock and Cedar Park make moving easier. Build new connections in your new neighborhood right away to meet friends. Austin has a welcoming community vibe, so it should be easy. If the weather is warm on the day you move, be sure to keep hydrated.
Final Packing Checklist Before Moving Day
- Pack all of your valuables, important documents, and IDs in a separate bag and keep it with you.
- Clearly label all boxes with the room they’re intended to go in.
- Check that fragile items are padded and their boxes are sealed up properly.
- Empty and clean out all of your appliances, then tape their doors shut to safely transport.
- Keep cleaning supplies available for last‑minute touch‑ups.
- Confirm you have strong tape when packing boxes and extra for moving day.
- Pack an essential box for what you may need the first night after you move.
If you want packing to be easier and stress-free, contact us at Not A Hobby Moving. We can pack all of your belongings and ensure they arrive safely at your new home, no matter where it’s located in Austin.
