Packing can be one of the most time-consuming parts of any move, and figuring out what should I pack first when moving can set the tone for the entire process. With the right plan, you’ll avoid last-minute scrambling, reduce stress, and feel more in control of your move from day one.
At Mike Hammer Moving, we’ve seen what works (and what doesn’t) when it comes to packing efficiently. If you’re unsure what should be packed first when moving, this guide will walk you through a step-by-step strategy to help you stay organized and move smarter.
Why It Matters What You Pack First
If you’ve ever asked yourself what should I pack first when moving, it’s likely because you don’t want to pack something too early and find yourself needing it before moving day. That’s why the key is to start with items you rarely use and gradually move toward your daily essentials.
Packing in the right order helps you:
- Stay organized and on track
- Avoid packing up necessary items too soon
- Unpack more efficiently later
- Make your moving day much smoother
Start with Off-Season Items
One of the easiest answers to what should I pack first when moving is anything seasonal. These are items you won’t need in the immediate future, so you can safely box them up early without worry.
Examples include:
- Holiday decorations
- Seasonal clothing (coats, boots, swimsuits)
- Camping or beach gear
- Patio furniture and grills
Since these items tend to be bulky or oddly shaped, getting them packed early frees up space and reduces clutter.
Clear Out Storage Areas
Storage spaces are often filled with things we’ve forgotten we own, until it’s time to move. When asking what should I pack first when moving, your basement, attic, or garage is a great place to begin.
Pack items like:
- Old files and documents
- Paint supplies or tools
- Spare linens and blankets
- Memorabilia and keepsakes
You’ll also find this is a good opportunity to purge things you no longer want or need.
Pack Books, Decor, and Wall Art
Still wondering what should I pack first when moving? Look to your shelves and walls. Books, knick-knacks, and artwork aren’t necessary for daily life, so they can be packed early in the process.
Tips:
- Use small boxes for books to avoid excess weight
- Wrap fragile decor in paper or bubble wrap
- Remove hanging art and use corner protectors when possible
These items are usually easy to live without until you’re settled in your new home.
Tackle Extra Kitchen Items
The kitchen is one of the trickiest rooms to pack, but you don’t need everything in it right away. A smart approach to what to pack first when moving in the kitchen is to start with:
- Baking dishes and serving trays
- Small appliances you use occasionally
- Duplicate utensils or dishes
- Specialty cookware
Save your everyday plates, mugs, and a few cooking tools for last.
Sort Through Clothing and Accessories
If you’re asking what should I pack first when moving, think about clothing you won’t wear in the next couple of weeks. This might include:
- Formalwear
- Off-season items
- Shoes you rarely wear
- Extra coats or accessories
Use wardrobe boxes or vacuum-seal bags to keep clothes protected and organized.
Don’t Forget the Bathroom Backups
While your toothbrush and daily skincare products should stay put until moving day, most people have backup supplies that can be packed early.
This includes:
- Extra shampoos and soaps
- Unused towels and bath mats
- Hair tools or razors not used often
- Travel-sized toiletries
Even in a small room, deciding what to pack first when moving makes a big difference in staying organized.
Pack Toys, Games, and Hobby Supplies
If you have kids, you’ll want to leave out a few favorites for entertainment, but the rest can go in boxes. The same goes for hobby items like board games, sewing supplies, or crafting gear.
Label these boxes well so you can access them easily later if needed.
Protect Sentimental and Valuable Items
Sentimental items like photo albums, collectibles, and family heirlooms should be packed carefully and early in the process. These aren’t essential for daily life, but they are often irreplaceable, so take extra time to wrap and store them safely. These types of belongings are always better handled early with care and attention.
Pack a Moving Day Essentials Box
When deciding what should I pack first when moving, don’t forget to plan for your essentials. Set aside one box or bag to pack last—this will be your essentials kit for moving day. Be sure to include:
- Toiletries
- Chargers
- Medications
- Snacks and water
- One outfit and towel per person
- Important documents
This should be the last thing packed and the first box opened in your new home.
Pack with Purpose, Move with Confidence
Knowing what should I pack first when moving is the first step toward a smoother, more manageable move. By starting with the items you use least and gradually working toward daily essentials, you’ll stay organized and avoid unnecessary stress.
Need help getting packed? Mike Hammer Moving offers full-service packing and moving solutions in Kansas City to make your move efficient and worry-free. Whether you’re tackling a local move or going long-distance, our team is ready to help from the first box to the last.
