METCALF MOVING BLOG

Smart Packing: Clothes, Shoes, and Accessories for Your Move

Preparing for a household move means packing everything from furniture to footwear. Clothes, shoes, and accessories may seem straightforward; efficiently handling them can save time, space, and stress. Here’s what you need to know to pack these essentials smartly and keep them in top condition during the move.

Sort and Declutter First

Before packing anything, sort through your wardrobe. Moving is the perfect opportunity to eliminate excess clothes. Donate, sell, or recycle anything you no longer wear. Be honest about items that you haven’t worn in over a year. Eliminating unnecessary items means the less you must pack, carry, and unpack later.

Create piles for donation, sale, and keeping. Consider organizing a garage sale to lighten your load and make extra cash. For items in good condition that hold sentimental value but aren’t worn, consider storage solutions or asking family if they’d like to keep them.

Use the Right Packing Supplies

Invest in the appropriate packing supplies, such as sturdy boxes, wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes, and vacuum-seal bags for bulkier items. Wardrobe boxes keep clothes on hangers, saving time when unpacking. For shoes, consider individual boxes or wrapping each pair in packing paper to protect against scuffs. Place heavier shoes, like boots, in sturdy containers to avoid crushing lighter pairs.

Organize accessories like belts, scarves, and jewelry in labeled containers or small bags. Use small zippered pouches or pill organizers for jewelry to prevent tangling. Cushion delicate accessories with soft clothing or bubble wrap.

Pack by Category and Season

Group similar items together to simplify unpacking. Pack off-season clothing first, followed by current-season items closer to your move date. For example, if you’re moving in summer, pack winter coats and boots first. Use clear bins for essentials you’ll need immediately upon arrival. Label each box clearly to avoid confusion when settling into your new home.

Keep clothing from the same family member together to avoid sorting confusion later—label bins or boxes with the person’s name and room destination to streamline unpacking.

Protect Delicate Items

Use packing paper or soft clothing to cushion delicate items like jewelry or accessories with fragile details. Place heavier clothing at the bottom of boxes and lighter items on top. For shoes, stuff them with socks or paper to maintain their shape, and place them heel to toe to maximize space. Wrap heels or delicate shoes in bubble wrap for added protection.

If you’re transporting expensive or irreplaceable items, consider carrying them with you during the move for added security.

Optimize Space with Smart Packing Techniques

• Roll, don’t fold: Rolling clothes saves space and reduces wrinkles. It’s also easier to see what you’ve packed.
• Layer strategically: Place heavier items on the bottom and lighter fabrics on top. Use soft items like scarves or sweaters to fill gaps.
• Utilize suitcases: Pack heavy clothing and shoes in suitcases with wheels to make transport easier. This saves space in moving boxes and reduces lifting strain.
• Vacuum seal bulky items: Use vacuum bags for seasonal clothes like winter coats or bedding. This reduces space and makes packing more efficient.

Label and Inventory Your Boxes

Keep a detailed inventory list of what’s in each box for easy reference. For each box, write its contents and the room in which it belongs on the label. This ensures that your movers can place them in the correct location, making unpacking smoother.

Consider numbering boxes and keeping a master list on your phone or notebook. This can save you time when you need to find a specific item after the move.

Essentials First

Pack a box with essentials for the first few days in your new home—a few outfits, sleepwear, toiletries, and comfortable shoes. This will save you from rummaging through boxes right after your move.

Also, keep important documents, medications, chargers, and snacks handy. Easy access to these items will reduce stress and make you comfortable during your first day in your new home.

Your Smooth Move Starts Here

Packing for a household move doesn’t have to be overwhelming. You can safeguard your possessions and simplify the process with the right strategy. Ready to take the stress out of moving? Contact us today for stellar moving services that will make your transition effortless.