Embarking on a long distance move is an exciting journey… but it can also feel incredibly stressful. One of the most stressful aspects is packing, which can often seem like a neverending process.

How can you make packing for your long distance move feel like less of a challenge? If you’re in need of packing tips, we’ve got you covered. Follow these steps to successfully pack your home!

  • Allow Enough Time

One of the biggest mistakes people make when preparing for a long-distance move is underestimating how long packing will take. You should start the process as early as possible, ideally six to eight weeks before your move. This timeline gives you enough breathing room to handle the task in less stressful increments, avoiding last-minute panic. If you start early, you’ll have enough time to declutter, gather supplies, and pack carefully without feeling rushed.

  • Declutter First

Before you even think about packing, take the time to sort through your belongings and declutter what you no longer want or need. Moving is the perfect opportunity to get rid of these items. A great way to give these items a new life during the process is to donate or sell the ones in good condition. In fact, a garage sale can even help you get some extra cash for your move! By reducing the number of items you have to move, you’ll save both time and money. 

  • Gather Supplies

Having the right packing materials is essential for a successful long-distance move. You’ll need:

  • Sturdy cardboard boxes in various sizes
  • Packing tape and a dispenser
  • Bubble wrap, packing paper, or foam peanuts for padding
  • Specialty boxes for items like dishes, electronics, and artwork
  • Permanent markers for labeling

Ensure you have enough of each item so that you don’t run out of supplies..

  • Pack in Increments

Packing everything at once can feel overwhelming, so tackling the job in increments is the way to go. Aim to pack a few boxes every day, starting with non-essential items like seasonal clothing, books, and decorative pieces. As moving day gets closer, gradually pack your more frequently used items. This strategy makes the process less overwhelming and ensures that your essential items remain accessible until you absolutely need to pack them.

  • Label, Label, Label!

Labeling is a key part of staying organized when packing for a long-distance move. Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to in your new home. This will make unpacking infinitely easier once you arrive. You can take your labeling a step further by color-coding the boxes. You should also clearly label any fragile or heavy boxes. This way, your movers will know how to handle each box appropriately.

  • Create an Inventory

Creating an inventory of all your items is an important step, especially for long-distance moves. This list helps ensure that nothing gets lost along the way. You can also use it to cross-reference when unpacking, making sure all your items have arrived safely. This can also be helpful if you need to file insurance claims in case anything is lost or damaged in transit.

  • Stay Organized

Staying organized while you pack will save you from unnecessary stress. How can you maintain organization throughout this task? Designate a specific area in your home for packed boxes and keep your supplies in one spot as well. Be sure to group similar items together and avoid mixing belongings from different rooms in the same box, as this can become confusing. Keeping everything structured and methodical will prevent chaos.

  • Pack by Room

Packing by room is a smart strategy that makes both packing and unpacking easier. Start with the rooms that contain non-essential items, such as your attic, basement, or guest room. You should also pack all the items from one room before moving on to the next. By keeping items from the same room together, you can unpack by room in your new home, allowing for a much more manageable process.

  • Use Specialty Boxes

Certain items like dishes, electronics, and artwork require special care and packaging. Invest in specialty boxes designed for these items, as this will allow for the highest level of protection. Dish packs, for example, come with dividers that prevent your plates and glassware from shifting during transport. For TVs and large mirrors, use specially padded boxes or ask your moving company about custom crating options. Proper protection will increase the odds that your most valuable and fragile items arrive safely.

  • Use Suitcases

While many people simply see their suitcases as a tool to travel with their personal items during a move, they can actually serve other purposes as well. Suitcases, especially rolling luggage, are ideal for packing heavy items like books during your move. This luggage can provide a sturdy place for these belongings to stay safe in transit.

  • Disassemble Furniture

Large pieces of furniture can take up significant space in a moving truck and are often awkward to maneuver through doorways. Whenever possible, disassemble furniture such as bed frames, tables, and bookshelves. Stay organized by keeping all screws, bolts, and small parts in labeled plastic bags taped to the corresponding furniture piece. This will make reassembling much easier when you arrive at your new location.

  • Wrap Fragile Items

Fragile items like glassware, china, and electronics need extra attention. Wrap these items individually in bubble wrap or packing paper, and place them snugly in boxes with plenty of cushioning. Fill any gaps in the box with packing peanuts or crumpled paper to prevent items from shifting during transit. For extremely delicate items, consider double-boxing to add an extra layer of protection.

  • Fill Extra Space

When packing your boxes, avoid leaving empty spaces, as these can cause items to shift during transit and potentially lead to damage. If you have a box that isn’t quite full, use soft items like towels, clothing, or bedding to fill in the gaps. You can also opt to use bubble wrap or other padding materials. This provides extra cushioning and helps to stabilize your items without adding too much weight.

  • Invest in Insurance

Accidents can happen, especially over long distances. That’s why investing in moving insurance is a must. Most moving companies offer basic coverage, but it may not be enough to fully cover valuable or sentimental items. Consider purchasing additional insurance for high-value belongings like electronics, artwork, or antiques. This way, you’ll have peace of mind knowing you’re covered if something gets damaged or lost.

  • Pack an Essentials Bag

Finally, pack a bag with essentials that you’ll need during and immediately after your move. This bag should include toiletries, medications, important documents, phone chargers, a change of clothes, snacks, and anything else you might need for the first few days in your new home. Keep this bag with you rather than loading it onto the moving truck, so it’s accessible at all times. Having your essentials close at hand can make your first few days in a new place more comfortable and stress-free. Plus, this step prevents digging through your boxes immediately upon arrival!

 

Pack Like an Expert for Your Long-Distance Move

With these steps, you’re fully equipped to handle the packing for your long-distance move like an expert. Looking for more expert assistance? Trust the team at Austin Moving & Storage for all your needs throughout your relocation. Our professional staff offers high-quality moving, packing, and storage solutions to make your move feel like a breeze. Count on our services as your trusted Long Island movers. Request a free quote online or call us today!