Packing Checklist - The Moving Site

2+ Months Before Move: Getting StartedPurchase and gather packing supplies.

Downsize, donate, & dump.

Pack boxes with the weight evenly distributed, heaviest items on the bottom, and don’t forget to fill any empty spaces in the box with packing material.

Label everything. Don’t forget the FRAGILE labels.

During the packing process remember to set aside things that you will be taking with you or will need during the move duration such as medications, pet food and supplies, important documents, high value or sentimental items.

2 Weeks Before The Move: Continue Packing all Non EssentialsNon essential clothesNon essential kitchen itemsNon essential bathroom itemsLinen closets and pantriesNon essential bedroom itemsAnything in cabinets or cupboardsAnything in drawers or on shelves

Living RoomPack electronic equipment in its original package or pack separately in a box it can fit into comfortably. Line box with packing paper and fill any void space.Use Flat screen TV boxes or wrap TVs in a blanket and sandwich them between mattresses or other items. Always pack a flat screen TV upright.Carpets and rugs can be rolled and taped or tied.Make sure to take the batteries out of all devices.Take pictures of any electronic setups.Remove all bulbs from lamps.Lamp shades, chandeliers, and other fragile odd shaped items should be packed separately, and individually. Don’t forget to fill any empty space around the item with packing peanuts or crumbled packing paper.Wrap framed artwork and mirrors with blankets or bubble wrap. Pack and store framed artwork and mirrors upright and never stacked on top of each other.

KitchenDishes are best packed in small boxes or dish pack boxes.Fill boxes that contain breakables with a layer of crumbled packing paper or peanuts before you start to fill the box.Wrap dishes individually with packing paper. Dishes are best stacked vertically and not directly on top of each other.Fill the layers between the dishes and any empty space with packing paper or peanuts.Tape or wrap knives and table wear together in their holder if possible.Fill pots with small kitchen items , wrap any glass lids.Pack pots pans and small kitchen appliances in medium boxes heaviest on the bottom.

BedroomPack clothes in wardrobe boxes, medium boxes, or even trash bags.Use mattress bags or cover mattresses with some old sheets. Flimsy foam mattresses can be folded over and tied like a U shape.Pack any valuable or private belongings that are in drawers in boxes.Pack shoes, hats, and purses in their original packaging or boxes. Remember heaviest items on the bottom of the box and fragile crushable items are packed separately.

BathroomAny items that could spill or leak- tape lids and pack these items in sealable plastic bags or containers.Use towels and linens for cushioning material for packing, vacuum seal, or use medium boxes.Be sure to keep separate any medications or first aid supplies that you may need on hand.Secure cords of small bathroom supplies and pack them in boxes heavier items on the bottom.

OfficeBackup any hard drives or important files in case of loss or damage during transport.Keep track of how office equipment is set up by taking pictures, color coding, or labeling.Pack books in the smallest heavy duty boxes. Stack them flat so you don’t damage the book spines or pages.If you have a lot of paperwork consider purchasing filing boxes that have a built in file holder.

Garage & YardEmpty gas from any power tools and equipment.You can used sport utility boxes for any long odd shaped equipment such as golf clubs, baseball bats, rackets etc.Clean and defrost any refrigerators or freezers you have.Disconnect hoses from washing machine and let them drain and dry. You can also wrap your washer and dryer with blankets and secure with shrink wrap or tape.Remove any propane tanks and gas connections from your BBQ Pit or Grill. Remove grates, shelves, burners, or anything loose and pack it separately first in a trash bag and then in a box.

The Moving Site Packing Checklist