Packing Hacks Movers Don’t Want You to Know

Packing is one of the most time-consuming and expensive parts of moving. And while many moving companies offer packing services, there are a few clever tricks they don’t want you to know—because they can save you time, money, and a whole lot of stress. Ready to pack smarter? Here are the insider hacks movers would rather keep secret.

1. Use Soft Items as Padding

Forget the bubble wrap. Use towels, blankets, socks, and clothes to wrap fragile items like dishes and electronics. It’s free, effective, and reduces the number of boxes you’ll need.

2. Skip the Boxes for Some Items

Drawers can be left full (if not too heavy), and laundry baskets or suitcases make excellent moving containers. Don’t waste money or time packing everything into cardboard.

3. Color-Code Instead of Labeling

Use colored stickers or tape for each room—blue for kitchen, red for bedroom, green for bathroom, etc. It makes unloading faster and helps movers drop boxes in the right spots without asking.

4. Wrap Hanging Clothes with Trash Bags

Gather clothes directly from the closet, tie hangers together, and cover them with a trash bag from the bottom up. You’ll save time and skip folding altogether.

5. Take Photos of Electronics Before Unplugging

Snap a quick pic of the back of your TV, Wi-Fi router, or gaming system before unplugging the cables. It’ll make reassembling everything at your new place a breeze.

6. Use Plastic Wrap to Prevent Spills

Wrap the tops of toiletries and kitchen items like oil bottles with plastic wrap, then screw the lid back on. No more leaks in transit.

7. Pack Plates Vertically Like Records

Instead of stacking plates flat, place them on their sides. This reduces surface pressure and makes them less likely to crack. Use clothes or paper between them for extra protection.

8. Keep Essentials in a “Day One” Box

Pack a box or bag with essentials you’ll need immediately: toiletries, chargers, snacks, clothes, and important documents. You don’t want to go digging through ten boxes just to find your toothbrush.

9. Use Ziploc Bags for Hardware

Take apart furniture? Store screws, bolts, and small pieces in labeled Ziploc bags, and tape them directly to the corresponding item. No more lost parts.

10. Don’t Overpack Boxes

Heavy boxes are hard to move and more likely to break open. Keep them under 50 lbs and distribute weight evenly.

Packing doesn’t have to be a nightmare—or a huge expense. With these simple hacks, you can save money, speed up the process, and arrive at your new home more organized than ever. And if you still want a hand, Sunny Movers is just a call away.