How to Pack Clothes for Moving: Best Methods for a Stress-Free Move

When preparing for a big move, one of the biggest questions people ask is: how to pack clothes for moving? Clothing takes up a lot of space, comes in different materials, and often wrinkles or gets damaged if packed poorly. Whether you’re moving across Minneapolis or across the country, knowing the best way to pack clothes for moving will save you time, stress, and space.

In this guide, we’ll cover the best ways to pack clothes when moving, from folding and boxing to moving clothes on hangers. We’ll also look at the pros and cons of different packing methods so you can choose the one that fits your move.

Step 1: Sort and Declutter Before Packing Clothes

The best way to move clothes starts with packing less. Before you even open a box, go through your closet and dresser and decide what to keep.

• Donate clothes you no longer wear.
• Sell gently used items online or at a local thrift store.
• Recycle worn-out clothing responsibly.

The fewer clothes you pack, the easier your move will be.

Step 2: Choose the Right Packing Method

There are several ways to pack clothing for moving, and the best choice depends on your budget, clothing type, and available supplies.

Packing Clothes in Cardboard Boxes

The traditional method is packing folded clothes in standard moving boxes.

How to do it:

• Fold clothes neatly.
• Line boxes with clean paper or plastic bags to keep clothes fresh.
• Pack heavier clothes at the bottom, lighter items on top.

Best for: Everyday wear, jeans, T-shirts, sweaters.

Using Wardrobe Boxes for Hanging Garments

If you’re wondering how to move clothes on hangers, the easiest way is with wardrobe boxes. These tall boxes come with a metal hanging bar so you can transfer clothing directly from your closet.

How to do it:

• Keep clothes on their hangers.
• Hang them directly inside the wardrobe box.
• Seal the box for transport.

Best for: Suits, dresses, jackets, blouses, and other items you don’t want wrinkled.

This is also the best way to move clothes hangers without tangling them.

Packing Clothes in Suitcases and Duffel Bags

Don’t overlook the luggage you already own. Suitcases are perfect for packing clothes when moving because they’re sturdy, mobile, and designed for clothing.

Best for: Heavy clothing like coats, shoes, or folded garments.

Vacuum-Sealed Bags of Clothes

If you’re short on space, vacuum bags are a great solution.

How to do it:

• Place clothing inside vacuum-seal bags.
• Remove excess air with a vacuum cleaner.
• Pack the compressed bags inside boxes or suitcases.

Best for: Bulky items like winter coats, blankets, and sweaters.

This method is also excellent if you’re packing a bag of clothes for moving compactly.

Garbage Bags for Hanging Clothes (Budget Option)

For a cheap and quick solution, you can slide garbage bags over hanging clothes.

How to do it:

• Keep clothing on hangers.
• Poke a hole at the bottom of a garbage bag and slide hangers through.
• Tie the bottom of the bag to keep clothes together.

Best for: Short-distance local moves.

Step 3: Organize Clothes by Category

No matter which packing method you choose, organizing clothing before moving makes unpacking easier.

• Seasonal separation: Pack off-season clothes separately so you can unpack them later.
• Family labeling: Pack each person’s clothes in separate boxes or bags.
• Clothing type: Keep formal wear separate from casual wear.

Step 4: Protect Delicate Clothing

Certain fabrics require extra care.

• Wrap silk, lace, or delicate fabrics in tissue paper.
• Place shoes in shoe bags to avoid dirt transfer.
• Keep jewelry and accessories in separate pouches.

Moving Boxes vs. Hanging Garment Boxes: Which Is Best?

Both standard moving boxes and hanging garment boxes for clothes have their advantages:

• Boxes: Cheaper, easier to stack, better for folded clothing.
• Wardrobe boxes: More expensive, but protect hanging garments and reduce wrinkles.

For most moves, a combination of both is the most efficient.

Tips for Packing Clothes When Moving

• Don’t overpack boxes. Clothes get heavy quickly — use medium boxes instead of large ones.
• Keep essentials separate. Pack a suitcase with 5–7 days of clothes so you’re not searching after the move.
• Label boxes clearly. Mark them with names, seasons, or room destinations.
• Wash before moving. Start fresh in your new home with clean clothes.

How Movers Handle Clothes

If you hire a professional moving company, they’ll bring the right supplies for moving clothes efficiently.

• They often provide wardrobe boxes for hanging garments.
• They can help with specialty items like formal wear.
• They ensure clothes stay clean and wrinkle-free during transport.

Learn more about our Packing & Moving Supplies that include wardrobe boxes, packing paper, and eco-friendly solutions.

FAQs 

What’s the best way to move clothes hangers?

Use wardrobe boxes or garbage bag hacks to keep hangers organized and prevent tangling.

How do I pack clothes to move without wrinkles?

Use garment bags, wardrobe boxes, or pack clothes on hangers instead of folding.

Should I leave clothes in drawers when moving?

For short moves, you can leave lightweight clothes in drawers if the furniture is sturdy. For long-distance moves, it’s best to empty them.

Conclusion

When it comes to how to pack clothes for moving, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. The best way to move clothes depends on your budget, how far you’re moving, and how much clothing you own.

For everyday clothes, boxes and suitcases work well. For delicate garments, wardrobe boxes are worth the investment. And if you’re moving locally and need a quick hack, garbage bags over hangers can save time.

At Affinity Moving, we provide wardrobe boxes, packing supplies, and full-service moving assistance to make packing clothes stress-free. Whether you’re moving across Minneapolis or out of state, we’ll make sure your clothing and belongings arrive safely and wrinkle-free.

Call us at (612) 682-6584 or request your free moving estimate today.

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