Moving is one of those life milestones that’s equal parts exciting and daunting. It’s the beginning of something new — but before you can settle into your fresh start, there’s the process. Boxes to pack. Timelines to manage. A mountain of to-dos that can feel like a full-time job.
We get it. Moving has a way of testing your patience to the breaking point. But here’s the good news: with the right moving strategies, you can tackle the chaos with confidence.
We’ve pulled together 20 of the best moving hacks and tips to help you save time and reduce stress. Let’s dive in.
Our Favorite Moving Hacks and Tips to Simplify Your Next Move
With the right hacks and a little planning, you can take control of the moving process, eliminate hassles, and — dare we say it — feel some satisfaction about a job well done.
So, what is the best strategy for moving? It starts with preparation. Stay organized and tackle tasks one step at a time. Break the process into manageable pieces (such as decluttering first, packing strategically, and creating a checklist) to stay on track and avoid last-minute catastrophes.
Remember the old adage: Work smarter, not harder. Here’s a collection of our favorite moving hacks to help you do just that.
1. Use a moving checklist so you don’t forget anything
A moving checklist keeps you organized and on track, turning a mountain of tasks into manageable steps. Use this printable checklist to plan every detail, from hiring movers to gathering supplies and updating your address.
With everything written down, you’ll know exactly what needs to be done and when. No guessing, no scrambling, and no surprises.
2. Declutter first so you have less to pack
Packing is easier — and cheaper — when you’re only moving what matters. Before you start boxing up your life, take the time to declutter. Sort through your belongings and decide what to donate, recycle, sell, or toss.
Fewer items means fewer boxes, which translates to less time spent packing and lower moving costs. You can also think of it as clearing the path for a fresh start.
3. Use a packing timeline
Timing is everything when it comes to packing. Start packing 4 to 6 weeks before your move to avoid the last-minute rush. Begin with rarely used items, like seasonal clothing or holiday decorations, and gradually work your way toward daily essentials as moving day approaches.
How long before you move should you start packing? Ideally, you should begin the process at least a month in advance. This gives you enough time to get organized, label boxes, and handle any unexpected tasks.
4. Move in the middle of the week instead of on the weekend
Here’s a pro tip to save some cash on your move: Choose a weekday instead of a weekend. Movers are typically less busy midweek, which means you’re more likely to score lower rates compared to peak times. We’re not kidding. This decision could potentially save you hundreds of dollars.
5. Pack an essentials box
Don’t let moving day chaos leave you searching for your toothbrush. Pack an essentials box with items like toiletries, medications, chargers, a change of clothes, and snacks. Think of it as your survival kit for the first 24 to48 hours in your new home.
Keep this selection of essentials with you like a carry-on. That way, you’ll have easy access to everything you need without digging through stacks of boxes when you’re tired and just want to settle in.
6. Take photos of electronics
Ever tried reconnecting your TV or Wi-Fi router and felt like you were defusing a bomb? Save yourself the guesswork by snapping photos of your cable setups before you disconnect anything.
A quick photo will help you know exactly where each cable goes. This simple step saves time, spares frustration, and will have your electronics up and humming right out of the box.
7. Use towels and linens as padding
Why spend extra on bubble wrap when your closet is already full of packing materials? Wrap fragile items like dishes, glassware, mirrors, and picture frames in towels, linens, or even clothing. It’s a practical way to protect your valuables while putting everyday items to work.
This hack saves money on packing supplies and reduces waste. Plus, when you unpack, everything has a dual purpose — more efficient unpacking without mountains of plastic to toss!
8. Label boxes by room and priority
Unpacking shouldn’t feel like a scavenger hunt. Label each box with its destination room and add notes for high-priority items. For example, a box marked “Kitchen — Open First” means you can find your coffee maker when you need it most.
A color-coded system works wonders, too. Assign a color to each room and use matching tape or stickers to make sorting at your new home quick and easy.
9. Pack plates vertically
Plates are sturdier than they look, but they’re no match for the bumps and jostles of moving if packed incorrectly. Instead of stacking them flat, place your plates on their sides in a sturdy box, with plenty of padding like towels, bubble wrap, or paper.
This method reduces the risk of breakage by distributing pressure more evenly. It’s a small adjustment that can save you from finding shattered dinnerware at the other end of your move.
10. Keep clothes on hangers
Why create extra work when you don’t have to? Instead of removing clothes from hangers and folding them, keep them on their hangers for an effortless transition. You can use wardrobe boxes for a neat and protected solution, or slide garbage bags over groups of clothes for a quick and budget-friendly alternative.
This hack saves time packing and unpacking while keeping your clothes wrinkle-free and ready to hang in your new closet. It’s a win for convenience and efficiency — and your clothes!
11. Use small boxes for heavy items
When packing books, tools, or other dense and heavy things, small boxes are your best friend. Overloading a large box with heavy items might seem more efficient, but it makes lifting a nightmare — and risks the box falling apart mid-move. Seriously. You don’t want to end up with a pile of books on the floor of your new house.
Instead, pack heavy items in small, easy-to-handle boxes to prevent injuries, keep your belongings intact, and make moving day a lot safer.
12. Rent plastic moving bins
For those special items that need a little extra love and protection, rent reusable plastic moving bins. These bins are far sturdier than cardboard boxes. They not only offer better support, but they’re also weather-resistant, and their stackability makes them a breeze to pack.
Plus, they’re good for the environment! Reusing plastic bins reduces waste.
13. Notify utility companies in advance
Imagine sitting down and plugging in your favorite lamp — only to remember you forgot to activate the electricity. Avoid service gaps by contacting your utility companies well before your move. Schedule shut-off dates for your old home and activation dates for your new one — before you’re scheduled to move in.
This step is especially important for services like Internet, where installation appointments may not be available on short notice.
14. Use stretch wrap for furniture
Stretch wrap is a moving day lifesaver. It protects your furniture from scratches, dust, and dirt while keeping drawers and cabinet doors securely closed, eliminating worries about drawers sliding out or handles snagging during transport.
Stretch wrap is also perfect for bundling loose items like rugs or keeping cushions attached to sofas. The extra layer of protection helps your stuff arrive at your new home in great shape.
15. Designate a no-pack zone
Avoid frustration by creating a no-pack zone. What we mean here is to set aside a clearly marked area for items movers shouldn’t touch, such as small valuables, personal documents, medications, or anything else you’ll need immediate access to during the move.
This simple step keeps your most important belongings safe and easily accessible.
16. Clean as you pack
As you pack, take the opportunity to wipe down furniture, appliances, and other belongings. You’ll be surprised by how much time this small step saves during your final cleaning, and it’ll keep everything fresh for your new home.
Plus, packing clean items makes unpacking easier and more enjoyable. You’ll thank yourself later when you get to settle in without added chores.
17. Use clear plastic bags for small parts
Small parts like screws, bolts, and assembly hardware have a way of disappearing during a move. Keep everything organized by storing these items in well-labeled clear plastic bags.
For added convenience, tape the bags directly to the corresponding furniture or appliance. This little trick saves time and frustration when reassembling items in your new home. No more digging through boxes to find that one missing screw!
18. Disassemble furniture in advance
Bulky furniture takes up valuable space in a moving truck and makes the loading process more difficult. Disassemble large items like beds, tables, and shelving units ahead of time to save both space and time on moving day. Seriously. You don’t want to take your bed apart on the sidewalk.
Not so handy? Many full-service movers offer disassembly and reassembly as part of their services, so let them know if you need any help with your furniture.
19. Use a dolly or furniture sliders
Moving heavy furniture doesn’t have to be backbreaking work — but having the right tools is essential. A dolly or furniture sliders make a world of difference. They protect your floors and reduce the physical strain of heavy lifting.
These tools are easy to rent or purchase from a local hardware store, and they’ll save time and effort on moving day.
20. Take an inventory of your belongings
Creating a detailed inventory of your packed boxes will keep your move organized from start to finish. List what’s inside each box and note which room it belongs to. This system makes unpacking faster and ensures nothing gets misplaced along the way. if you need to file claims for lost or damaged items, this clear documentation will be invaluable.
Simplify Your Moving Day
A smoother move starts with the right plan — and these 20 moving hacks will help you get there.
Of course, sometimes the easiest way to handle a move is to leave it to the professionals. With over 50 years of experience, Colonial Van Lines has mastered the art of long-distance moving, including packing, loading, transporting, unloading, and even unpacking. Ready to make your transition as smooth as possible? Get a free quote for your move today.