5 Smart Packing Tips for Moving Long Distances

Moving long distances is difficult enough as is, and it’s much harder if you aren’t packing correctly. Nobody wants to deal with broken valuables, dig through ten boxes just to find a toothbrush, or sleep on the floor because your mattress is stuffed into the back of the moving truck. Luckily, these five simple packing tips for moving long distances will streamline the process and make moving easier than it’s ever been before.

Smart Packing Tips for Moving

1. Pack an overnight bag

Avoid the stressful experience of searching fruitlessly for your must-have items by packing an overnight bag that includes your toiletries, a few changes of clothing, and essentials like medications, phone chargers, and a good book or two. This allows you to unpack leisurely and sequentially, rather than ripping irrelevant boxes apart to locate the baby’s favorite toy.

2. Arrange the truck according to items you’ll need first

Some rooms – the bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom, for example – are the most critical in the house, so it’s essential to think about this when you arrange your moving truck. To make your move easier and ensure you have what you need when you need it, organize your must-have items (like shampoo and cooking pots and pans) at the back of the truck for easy access.  This great packing tip for moving will guarantee that you have access to the items you need when you need them.

3. Notate which room boxes belong in

Instead of just writing “Glassware” or “Winter Coats,” be sure to notate which room your boxes belong in, as well. This allows your movers to arrange items according to the room. It also allows you to unpack by room, which makes moving more organized and manageable.

4. Pack breakables vertically

Nothing is quite as discouraging as a box full of broken valuables. To prevent this and keep your precious items safe, wrap breakable items like dinner plates and framed photos in bubble wrap and pack them vertically. In addition to making them less likely to break, this approach also saves space and leaves you more room for other items.

5. Group boxes together

To keep your things organized and safe throughout the course of a long-distance move, group related boxes together. Do this by arranging a stack of boxes together and then using a large roll of packing plastic to encase and surround them. In addition to keeping your items from shifting on the truck, this also allows you to simplify and streamline your move for your movers.

While moving across the state or country can feel overwhelming, these packing tips for moving long distances can save you time, headache, and stress. What’s more, they can keep your items organized and safe so you can move into your new home quicker than you ever thought possible.