When moving day creeps closer, one of the most common questions people ask is: What should I pack first? It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when your entire home is staring back at you—but starting with the right items makes the whole process smoother, more efficient, and less stressful.
Begin with Items You Rarely Use
The best way to kick off packing is to tackle things you don’t use daily. These often include:
- Seasonal decorations (holiday lights, winter coats)
- Off-season clothes
- Spare linens and bedding
- Books you’ve already read
- Extra kitchen gadgets (the fondue set you forgot you had)
These items can be boxed up early without disrupting your day-to-day life.
Pack Decorative and Non-Essential Items
Next, turn to your decor—things like framed photos, wall art, knick-knacks, and shelf items. These make your house feel like a home but aren’t necessary for function. Packing them early also gives you time to wrap them properly and prevent breakage.
Sort Out Storage Areas Early
Don’t forget your attic, garage, basement, or storage closets. These spaces often hold boxes, tools, or items you’ve forgotten about, and they typically require more time to sort through. Tackle these areas early, as they can be some of the most time-consuming.
Extra Kitchenware and Pantry Goods
Your kitchen is one of the trickiest rooms to pack, but you can get a head start by boxing up things like:
- Serving platters
- Special occasion dishes
- Extra utensils
- Dry goods or canned food you won’t eat before the move
Leave your daily-use items (like a few plates, mugs, and pots) for last and pack them right before moving day.
Create a “Don’t Pack Yet” Zone
There are items you’ll need up until the very last minute—like your phone charger, toiletries, important documents, and a couple changes of clothes. Designate a separate suitcase or bin for these essentials and label it clearly.
Moving Tips from the Pros
If you’re still unsure where to start—or just want to make your move smoother— Wherley Moving offers expert moving services that can guide you through every step. Their site includes practical tips, checklists, and resources that help make packing less stressful. With years of experience handling local and long-distance moves, Wherley Moving is a reliable choice whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring help.
Final Thoughts
In our opinion, starting with non-essentials is the smartest way to ease into the packing process. It allows you to make progress without throwing off your daily routine. Begin with what you can live without, work your way toward the essentials, and keep organized as you go. With the right strategy—and maybe some help from Wherley Moving—your move will feel far more manageable.