Packing Tips

Think in advance about which belongings will need extra care so they don’t get damaged during the move.

📦 Think Ahead

You won’t unpack everything on day one, so decide what you’ll want quick access to as soon as you arrive.

• Pack a “first‑night” box and keep it with you. Having tea, coffee, snacks, cups and a kettle ready to go can be a lifesaver. Include plates, cutlery and a kitchen cloth too.
• Give each family member an overnight bag with clothes, toiletries and enough toilet roll for everyone.
• Try to finish all laundry before moving day so you’re not packing damp clothes. Keep a separate bag or box for dirty washing.

📦 Smart Packing

Take time to think about how best to pack your belongings. Books are simple but heavy, fragile items need careful wrapping, and some furniture may need dismantling.

• Start early — packing always takes longer than expected, especially when you get distracted by old memories or realise furniture needs taking apart.
• Begin with the highest rooms and work your way down. If you have an attic, tackle that first.
• Put heavy items in small boxes to make them easier to carry. Keep all boxes as light as possible to avoid back strain.
• Pack one room at a time and clearly label each box with its contents and destination room. Mark boxes containing fragile items, and note which ones can be stacked.
• Keep boxes from the same room together to speed up unpacking.
• Place heavier items at the bottom of each box and lighter ones on top.
• Wrap items individually and line boxes with several layers bubble wrap.  Newspaper can result in ink transfer, use clean tissue or wrapping paper as the first layer. Soft items like pillows and blankets can protect delicate belongings and furniture.
• Keep important documents — such as birth and marriage certificates — together in a safe, easily accessible place.