Packing room by room

Pack from the least-used rooms to the most-used, and label everything. You'll unpack twice as fast.

Order

1. Storage areas, guest rooms, out-of-season clothes
2. Books, decor and anything on walls
3. Living room and dining room
4. Most of the kitchen (keep one box of everyday items)
5. Bedrooms and bathrooms, last few days
6. First-night boxes, the night before

Labeling that works

• Room name and a short contents list on two sides of each box
• Number the boxes and keep a list
• Mark "fragile" and "this side up" clearly
• Use a different color tape or label for each room

Packing tips

• Heavy items in small boxes, light items in large ones
• Fill gaps so contents don't shift
• Wrap plates and pack them on edge
• Photograph electronics connections before unplugging

General moving information, not legal advice. Rules differ for interstate and local moves. Home Swift Services isn't a mover or broker and takes no referral fees.