10 packing tips to make your move easier, according to home organization experts

What should you do before you even open a moving box?

Don't start packing until you've done a good purge. If possible, take measurements in your new space so you know what items won't fit, and consider selling or donating before the movers come. 

What's the best order for rooms or things to pack first, and what to leave until the end?

Start with keepsakes, seasonal clothing, extra decor — anything you aren't using on a regular basis. Bedding and everyday kitchen items are usually the last to be packed. 

What's the best way to pack shoes?

Individually wrapped and laid side by side in an under-the-bed storage bin is great.

What should you pack in suitcases and bags versus boxes?

Suitcases for what you are taking with you and boxes for the rest. Avoid individually wrapped items unless necessary, so there's less to carry in and out. 

What kinds of belongings are vacuum space saver bags best for? 

Any soft item that you don't mind being wrinkled when unpacked. 

How do you keep your packing progress clear and organized?

Invest in some good box labels to put on the boxes so distributing them throughout your new space is easy. Put a matching label on the rooms where you want the movers to bring the boxes too. 

Is there anything you should do before move-in day?

Protect your surfaces before the movers arrive and the unpacking begins. Things move very quickly on unpacking days and it's really easy to accidentally damage floors, countertops, and other surfaces.

We like Kraft Paper because you can buy a roll of it and it's pretty inexpensive. You should also spend some time space-planning where your furniture is going to live before move day. Anyone in charge of carrying your belongings will thank you and you will be less likely to have to move too much around. 

Shoe covers, yes or no?

If your house was cleaned prior to move-in day, you should consider shoe covers for anyone in and out afterward. That way your carpets and floors stay as germ-free as possible. 

Are there any underrated supplies that people often forget about?

You can't have too many box cutters or big contractor size garbage bags on unpacking day. Box cutters seem to disappear in the craziness of a move and contractor bags are great for any packing material that you used to protect your fragile items.

For box cutters, we go for a good old retractable knife, and for garbage bags, we like these super heavy-duty contractor clean-up bags. 

Any tips for the mess of boxes afterward?

If you're like us, the thought of the hundreds of empty boxes at the end of your unpack is both glorious and terrifying. One of the quickest ways to get them off your hands it to post a picture of them neatly stacked up to Facebook Marketplace. You can offer them for free or for a small fee — either way, you'll be shocked at how many takers you'll have.