Moving is a big project, and the order in which you pack can make or break the process. If you live in Richmond, BC, and want a smooth, organized move, knowing what should go into boxes first will save you time, energy, and money. Whether you hire the best moving services or tackle most of the packing yourself, this guide will help you create a step-by-step packing plan that works.
Planning and Decluttering Before You Pack
Before a single box is filled, you need to lay the groundwork for a successful move.
Creating a Packing Timeline
A solid timeline keeps you on track. Begin planning at least six weeks before moving day, especially if you’re coordinating with professional movers in Richmond, BC. Include deadlines for each room, when to buy packing materials, and when to start labeling boxes.
Decluttering to Lighten the Load
Packing unnecessary items wastes time and money. Go room by room and sort your belongings into “keep,” “donate,” “sell,” or “dispose” piles. The fewer items you move, the more you save on transportation costs and labor, especially when using the best moving services in the Richmond, BC area.
Starting with the Least-Used Items
When it comes to packing, start with the things you use the least.
Seasonal Items
If you’re moving in summer, pack away winter coats, boots, and holiday decorations first. For a winter move, store away summer sports gear, patio furniture, and warm-weather clothes.
Collectibles and Decorations
Artwork, framed photos, fragile figurines, and knick-knacks should be boxed early. Wrap them securely in packing paper or bubble wrap, label them as fragile, and store them in a safe area.
Room-by-Room Packing Order
Packing by room prevents you from feeling overwhelmed and helps keep similar items together.
Spare Rooms and Storage Areas
Start with the rooms you use the least, guest bedrooms, basements, attics, and storage closets. These often contain non-essential items that can be packed far in advance.
Living Room and Bedrooms
Once you’re within two to three weeks of moving day, you can begin boxing books, extra bedding, DVDs, and decorative pillows. Keep everyday bedding and one or two changes of clothes unpacked until the final days.
Kitchen and Bathrooms
The kitchen should be one of the last areas to pack, as you’ll need access to it until just before the move. Bathrooms can be packed in stages, extras like spare towels and unopened toiletries can go early, while daily-use items stay until the last day.
Packing Essentials for the First Day in Your New Home
One of the most common mistakes people make when moving is forgetting to set aside a “first-night box.”
What to Include
This box should have items like toothbrushes, soap, medication, snacks, chargers, bed sheets, and a change of clothes. For families in Richmond, BC, this is even more important, moving day can be long, and you’ll want to avoid digging through dozens of boxes just to find your essentials.
Smart Loading Strategies for Moving Day
The way you load your moving truck impacts both the safety of your belongings and the efficiency of the process.
Heavy Items First
Place heavy items like refrigerators, washing machines, and couches at the front of the truck to create a stable base.
Long Items and Furniture
Mattresses, sofas, and bookshelves should go next, placed along the walls to maximize space.
Boxes and Fragile Items
Load heavier boxes on the bottom and lighter boxes on top. Fragile boxes should be kept in secure spaces where they won’t be crushed.
Organization and Labeling for a Stress-Free Move
Labeling is your secret weapon for an easy unpacking process.
Color Coding and Room Tags
Use different colored tape or stickers for each room. Mark boxes clearly on multiple sides so movers can see labels from any angle.
Inventory Lists
Create a checklist of boxes and their contents. This helps ensure nothing is lost during the move.
Packing Timeline Overview
Here’s a quick chart showing the ideal order to pack your home:
| Time Before Move | What to Pack First |
| 6+ Weeks | Seasonal clothes, holiday décor, collectibles |
| 4 Weeks | Spare room items, books, decorative pillows |
| 2 Weeks | Extra kitchenware, guest bedding |
| 1 Week | Clothing for non-moving days, small electronics |
| 1 Day | Kitchen essentials, bathroom toiletries, cleaning supplies |
Professional Help Can Make All the Difference
Even if you’re organized, a professional moving team can save you hours of heavy lifting and stress. The best moving services in Richmond, BC, have the tools, vehicles, and experience to load items efficiently, protect fragile possessions, and make the process far smoother than going it alone.
A Stress-Free Move Is Only a Call Away
When it comes to a well-planned, stress-free move, BBX Moving is your trusted partner in Richmond, BC. Located at 3239 No 6 Rd #165, Richmond, BC V6V 1P6, their team provides efficient, reliable, and careful moving assistance tailored to your needs. Whether you’re moving across the city or preparing for a larger relocation, BBX Moving’s professional crew ensures your belongings are handled with care. You can reach them by calling (604) 323-0020 or emailing info@bbxmoving.com to get your move started today.