Hiring a moving company in Somerset, NJ, definitely makes your relocation easier. However, proper planning and preparation are still key to ensuring a smooth process. An essential part of planning is knowing when to start, but clients often ask us, “When should I start packing for a move?”
Why Packing Early Matters
Packing is more than just putting things in boxes. It involves sorting, donating, decluttering, wrapping fragile items, labeling, and organizing. Starting early lets you stay organized, packing methodically by category or room. While sorting your belongings, you can calmly declutter and decide what to keep, throw away, and donate.
You can avoid damage by giving yourself time to properly protect fragile belongings. You can even save money by having time to shop for affordable packing supplies rather than buying in a rush. Above all, packing early helps reduce stress by avoiding last-minute chaos. But when is early enough?
When Should You Start Packing for a Move?
Generally, the ideal time to start packing is six to eight weeks before your moving day.
- 6–8 Weeks Before the Move: You can start by taking inventory of your belongings and sorting items into categories: keep, donate, sell, or toss. Additionally, you can begin collecting packing supplies like boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and markers.
- 4–6 Weeks Before the Move: At this stage, start packing items you don’t use daily, like off-season clothing, extra bedding, books, DVDs, and decor.
- 3–4 Weeks Before the Move: Start boxing up things you use occasionally, such as small kitchen appliances, guest room items, tools, and outdoor gear.
- 2–3 Weeks Before the Move: You should begin packing most of your household items, including everyday kitchenware, clothing (keeping only what you need for the next few weeks), bathroom items, toys, games, and hobby materials.
- 1 Week Before the Move: With only a week left, prepare an essential box with toiletries, medications, snacks, basic tools, phone chargers, and a few changes of clothes. Finish packing everything except your absolute essentials.
- Moving Day: On the day of the move, quickly pack up bedding and pillows, personal hygiene items, and any perishable food left in the fridge or freezer. Before leaving, double-check closets, cabinets, and drawers to make sure nothing is forgotten.
Factors That Affect When You Should Start Packing
While the above timeline works for most people, certain situations may require adjusting:
- Large households may need more time due to the number of items
- Busy schedules might mean starting earlier if you can only pack in short bursts
- Last-minute moves (within 2–3 weeks) require more intensive packing sessions, often daily
- Professional movers might offer packing services, often helping you on the same day of the move
Find a Moving Company in Somerset, NJ, That Offers Packing Services!
Whether relocating across town or to a new state, packing is one of the most important (and time-consuming) parts of the moving process. Starting early is crucial to prevent unwanted stress, extra cost, and damaged items. While there’s no one-size-fits-all when packing for a move, you can prepare by understanding what factors affect packing times and what packing materials you will need to procure.
We understand if it feels like too much. At Pink Zebra Moving, we offer packing services on moving day to reduce your stress before a relocation. Find a location near you and reach out to learn more!