Moving on short notice can be stressful, whether you’re leaving a house in Nashville or a studio apartment in Chicago. But with the right priorities and a few shortcuts, packing for a quick move can be manageable. The key is to focus on efficiency and safety, rather than perfection.
This guide will walk you through how to pack for a move in a hurry, from the initial planning stages to the final preparations, so you can transition smoothly to your new home without unnecessary stress.
Start by defining success for a quick move
When time is limited, it’s important to set realistic goals for your packing process. Success in a quick move means ensuring that your belongings arrive safely at your new place, being able to locate essential items easily, and finishing packing by your deadline without overwhelming yourself.
By clarifying these objectives, you can streamline your decision-making and focus on packing efficiently and securely.
Gather supplies fast, then stop shopping
You don’t need fancy packing materials to pack quickly. Basic supplies like boxes, tape, and markers are sufficient to get the job done. While additional items like packing paper and bubble wrap are helpful, don’t let a lack of these supplies slow you down.
Make use of medium and large moving boxes, packing tape, markers, trash bags, zip-top bags, and a box cutter or scissors. If you’re on a budget, consider getting free boxes from local stores and using existing containers like suitcases and tote bags.
Spend a few minutes making a plan
Even in a rushed packing scenario, taking a moment to create a basic strategy can help streamline the process. Determine which rooms to pack first and designate sorting zones within your home to categorize items into pack, donate/sell, and trash.
Pack a first night survival kit
Preparing a survival kit for your first night in the new home can significantly improve your moving experience. Include essential items like clothing, toiletries, chargers, basic tools, bedding, snacks, and important documents in a designated container labeled “OPEN FIRST.”
Use the broad categories rule to pack faster
Organize your packing by broad categories within each room to expedite the process. Pack items together based on their room of origin to simplify unpacking later on. Detailed organization can wait until after the move.
Follow the same four-step cycle in every room
Maintain a consistent packing cycle in each room to stay focused and efficient. Start by doing a quick trash sweep, pack large items first, layer remaining items in boxes, and label each box immediately after sealing it.
Lean on shortcuts that don’t sacrifice safety
Utilize time-saving packing hacks that prioritize efficiency without compromising the safety of your belongings. Strategies like keeping clothes on hangers, using soft items for padding, photographing electronics before unplugging, and leaving grouped items in containers intact can expedite the packing process.
Handle fragile items quickly and carefully
When packing fragile items, ensure they are adequately protected to prevent breakage during transit. Wrap dishes and glassware individually, cushion electronics on all sides, and secure art and mirrors with thick padding to safeguard them during the move.
Food and pantry packing: keep it simple
Simplify packing food items by focusing on essentials and minimizing perishable goods. Prioritize eating perishables before the move or transport them in a cooler for longer distances. Pack pantry items last and plan to restock quickly in your new location.
Don’t forget the hidden zones
Before completing your packing, remember to check hidden storage areas for any overlooked items. Inspect under beds, top shelves, and storage spaces to ensure everything is accounted for before the move.
Label fast, but label properly
Effective labeling can facilitate a smooth unpacking process. Clearly mark each box with the room, key contents, and priority level to prioritize unloading and make your first week in the new home more organized and stress-free.
The night before the move, do a quick reset
Prepare for moving day by ensuring your survival kit is ready, charging devices, organizing cleaning supplies, and setting aside essentials like keys and documents. Conduct a final sweep of each room to address any last-minute items before the move.
Limit last-minute packing
To streamline the loading process on moving day, consolidate loose items into a designated “Last Minute” container. This prevents scattered items from slowing down the move and ensures you only need to unpack one container for essential items left behind.
If movers are helping, set boundaries clearly
When enlisting professional movers, clearly communicate which items they should move and which you’ll transport personally. Label items you don’t want moved and keep valuables with you to avoid confusion and ensure a smooth moving process.
The biggest mistakes people make when packing in a hurry
Avoid common pitfalls in rushed packing, such as packing before decluttering, over-organizing, skipping labels, creating heavy boxes, packing daily essentials too early, and disassembling unnecessary items. By steering clear of these mistakes, you can pack efficiently and effectively.
A final word on how to pack for a move in a hurry
Packing quickly for a move may be intense, but it’s a temporary process. By following a simple plan, utilizing smart shortcuts, and maintaining basic organization, you can prepare for your move without unnecessary stress. Once you’re settled in your new home, you can take your time to unpack and adjust at a more comfortable pace.
You’ve got this!