The Complete Guide to Packing for Your Move: Tips, Supplies & Professional Services

Planning a move can feel overwhelming, and packing might just be the biggest challenge of all. Whether you're tackling it yourself or considering professional help, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know—from staying motivated to choosing the right supplies to understanding when it makes sense to call in the pros.

How to Stay Motivated While Packing

1. Use a Moving Checklist

Start with a moving checklist—it's your best friend in this process. A good list should spread out tasks over several weeks, so you can stay focused without feeling like you need to do everything all at once. Checklists keep you organized and on track.

2. Pack One Room at a Time

Tackling tiny areas here and there can make you feel like you're getting nowhere. Instead, commit to packing up one room or area at a time. Begin with less-used spaces like storage areas and guest rooms. This way, you'll see progress quickly without worrying about packing something you might soon need.

3. Declutter as You Go

You don't need to pack every single thing you own. As you move from room to room, bring garbage bags and boxes labeled "keep," "donate," and "sell." This method helps minimize mess and gives you a chance to declutter. Plus, your "sell" box might help you make a little extra cash!

4. Avoid Distractions

When you're packing, hunker down and focus on one task until it's done. Avoid the temptation to watch your favourite show or scroll through social media. If your kids are old enough, ask them to entertain themselves. Put your phone on hands-free so you can chat with a friend without it slowing you down.

5. Make It Fun

Turn packing into a game. Blare some music and dance around, or create a friendly competition between family members. Invite friends over to help you pack—just be mindful of distractions. Reward yourself with small treats for your hard work to keep your spirits high.

6. Stay Positive

Keeping a positive attitude makes all the difference. When you start feeling tired or frustrated, take a break and regroup. Remember, packing is a chance to get rid of things you don't want and make a fresh start in your new home. New home, new you!

Essential Packing Supplies: Choosing the Right Boxes

Having the right packing supplies can make a world of difference in ensuring your belongings are transported safely. Here are the main box types you should have on hand:

The 2-Cube Box

This is the classic moving box you picture when you think about packing. At 2 cubic feet, it's on the smaller side, making it easy to carry. Perfect for heavy items like books, canned goods, and small kitchen appliances.

The 4-Cube Box

At 4 cubic feet, this larger box is ideal for oddly shaped or bulky items such as kitchen appliances, stuffed toys, and pillows. Important tip: fill this box with lighter-weight items, as it's easy to accidentally overfill with heavy items that become difficult to move.

The Wardrobe Box

Wardrobe boxes can be the unexpected hero of your move. They're designed to hold your clothes with a sturdy bar so you can hang items—essentially a portable closet. When you use a wardrobe box, your clothes stay wrinkle-free, so you can skip the unpacking all-nighter and get that good night's sleep instead!

The Dish Barrel

The dish barrel is one of the sturdiest, most secure boxes you'll encounter. It comes with a cell kit so you can individually protect your dishes—absolutely the safest way to move your fragile kitchenware to your new home.

Why Professional Packing Services Matter

Not wanting to pack doesn't make you crazy—trying to do it all when you don't have the time might! Here's why quality moving companies offer packing services:

It Shows They Care About Your Move

Moving companies don't have to offer packing supplies or services. They could just show up at your door with a truck on moving day and expect everything to be ready. But the best moving companies offer additional services because they genuinely want your move to be easier for you.

It Can Be More Affordable

Finding packing supplies on your own can be difficult and expensive. Your moving company will be able to provide you with a deal, so you might end up spending less on packing supplies than buying them on your own. Plus, no matter where you buy supplies from, they won't pack your things for you like your mover can.

It Keeps Your Items Safer

Professional movers have been packing for years. They know how things need to be packed, and in what materials, to keep them safe and unbroken during the move. Our crews are professionals with experience in the safest and most effective ways to pack all kinds of items.

Special Expertise for Senior Moves

Moving seniors, especially those who are downsizing, can involve some of the most difficult packing. People who have lived in the same home for a long time likely have fragile or precious family heirlooms that need special care. Our movers have experience with fragile and special items—we're even professionals at moving pianos and other instruments.

Additional Services That Make Your Move Easier

Beyond packing, Two Small Men with Big Hearts offers additional services to make your moving day hassle-free:

• Packing & Unpacking: Have our team come in for a "pack day" before your move or help with unpacking afterward. The feedback from customers who use this service is always a resounding WORTH IT!

• Storage: We've developed relationships with storage facilities like BigSteelBox to make moving your belongings into storage easy. Your Move Coordinator will be happy to help coordinate this for you.

• Special Item Transport: Our crews are trained in special and delicate item transport, equipped with the know-how and gear to ensure your most valuable items have a safe journey.

• Junk Disposal: When you're downsizing, not everything is in condition to donate or sell. Our team can provide a junk disposal run to the local dump—much better than trying to fit everything in your blue bin!

For more details on our packing services or to get a free moving estimate, contact Two Small Men with Big Hearts today. Let us handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on enjoying your new home!