When Should You Start Packing for a Move? Your Complete Guide

Packing is often the most overwhelming part of moving. Whether you're relocating across town or out of state, one of the most common questions people ask is, "When should I start packing for a move?" If you're feeling unsure about where to begin, how much time you need, or how to pack in a hurry, you're not alone.

This complete guide covers when to start packing, how to prepare efficiently, and even how to pack for a move in just 3 days if you're short on time. Whether you’re hiring a full-service mover or going the "you pack, we move" route, a clear packing plan will save you time, stress, and last-minute chaos.

Why Packing Early Matters

Packing earlier than you think is important. Why? Because moving is not just about putting things in boxes. It involves:

• Sorting and decluttering
• Gathering supplies
• Organizing belongings by room and priority
• Preparing for moving day logistics

The more time you give yourself, the more in control you'll feel. You'll also avoid mistakes like overpacking, forgetting essentials, or rushing through breakable items without proper protection.

When to Start Packing to Move: General Timeline

If you have a typical 2-4 bedroom household, aim to start packing at least 4 to 6 weeks before your move date. This gives you plenty of time to pack without disrupting your daily life or feeling overwhelmed.

Here’s a basic timeline you can follow:

6 Weeks Before Moving

• Start in storage areas: basement, attic, closets
• Donate or sell items you no longer need
• Begin collecting boxes, packing paper, and tape

4 Weeks Before

• Pack off-season clothing and rarely used items
• Label boxes with both content and destination room
• Separate valuable or important documents to keep with you

3 Weeks Before

• Pack extra kitchen supplies, decor, books, and linens
• Notify utilities and change your address
• Arrange for donation pickups if needed

2 Weeks Before

• Focus on high-use rooms: bedrooms, kitchen, living room
• Disassemble furniture you don’t need
• Continue packing in order of importance

1 Week Before

• Pack essentials you can live without for a few days
• Clean rooms as you finish packing them
• Create a “first night” box with toiletries, clothes, and snacks

Packing Time Based on Home Size

Not everyone needs the same amount of packing time. Use this quick guide to estimate how long your packing will realistically take:

• Studio or 1-bedroom apartment: 15–20 hours total
• 2-bedroom apartment/home: 20–30 hours
• 3-bedroom home: 35–50 hours
• 4+ bedroom home: 50–70 hours or more

If you're wondering when to start packing to move, consider the size of your space, how much help you’ll have, and whether you're hiring packers.

How to Begin Packing for a Move

Starting is often the hardest part. Here's how to begin packing for a move efficiently:

1. Create a Master Checklist

List every room in your home and break down what needs to be packed in each. Prioritize by least-used to most-used areas.

2. Declutter First

Don't waste time packing items you won't use in your new space. Toss, donate, or sell what you don’t need.

3. Gather Quality Supplies

You’ll need more than just boxes. Grab bubble wrap, packing paper, tape, markers, zip bags, and specialty boxes for items like dishes or wardrobe clothes.

4. Pack Room by Room

Focus on one room at a time to stay organized and reduce overwhelm.

5. Label Every Box Clearly

Include the room name, contents, and whether it’s fragile. Use color-coded labels if possible.

You Pack, We Move: A Flexible Option

If you're handling the packing yourself, a "you pack, we move" option gives you more flexibility and control over your timeline. This means:

• You pack your own belongings at your own pace
• Movers handle the heavy lifting and transportation
• You can still hire help for loading, unloading, or large items

This approach is ideal for budget-conscious families, DIY movers, or people who want to start packing early and stay in control.

How to Pack for a Move in 3 Days

Need to move fast? Here's how to pack and move in 3 days without losing your mind:

Day 1: Prep and Prioritize

• Stock up on boxes, tape, and packing materials
• Focus on decluttering and organizing
• Start packing non-essentials immediately

Day 2: Pack Full Speed

• Work room by room
• Keep essentials aside (clothes, toiletries, medication)
• Use towels and clothing for padding to save time and materials

Day 3: Wrap Up

• Pack daily-use items and fragile pieces
• Disassemble furniture as needed
• Double-check closets, drawers, and cabinets

If possible, recruit friends or family to help or hire same-day packing assistance.

Additional Packing Tips

• Use small boxes for heavy items like books and tools
• Use large boxes for lightweight items like bedding and pillows
• Avoid overfilling boxes to keep them easy to carry and stack
• Use wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes to save time on folding
• Pack essentials last and keep them with you on moving day

When Should You Start Packing for a Move If You’re Hiring Movers?

If you're hiring a full-service mover that includes packing, you can typically start much later, often 1 to 3 days before your move. Still, it’s a good idea to:

• Organize your belongings ahead of time
• Declutter so movers aren’t packing things you don’t want
• Set aside personal and valuable items you want to move yourself

Even with professional movers, a little planning goes a long way.

Conclusion: Start Early, Stay Organized

So, when should you start packing for a move? Ideally, begin 4 to 6 weeks before your move date, depending on the size of your home and how much help you have. But even if you’re short on time, packing in 3 days is possible with the right strategy.

Whether you’re packing up a small apartment or a large family home, planning and choosing the right movers near me will make all the difference. Keep your process organized, label everything clearly, and stay focused. Your future self will thank you.

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