How to pack for a long-distance move


Having helped more than 1.5 million families move long distance, we've seen firsthand which packing strategies protect belongings, reduce moving-day stress and make unpacking easier. Use these tips to help you stay organized and keep your belongings safe every step of the way.

Here's how to pack for a cross-country move in 6 steps:


But first, check out these quick tips to help you pack like a pro: 

packing box with tape gun
Create a packing kit

Put tape, box labels, markers, scissors and other supplies in a bag, basket or box so you can easily carry them from room to room. Make one for every person packing to save time as you work!

 

tape gun on box
Prepare boxes

Reinforce the bottom of boxes with tape and then line them with crushed packing paper for extra cushion.

couple putting books in box
Pack heavy items in small boxes

Overweight boxes can be difficult to move, so using a smaller box will prevent you from putting too many heavy pieces inside.

Clothes in drawer
Use all available space

Take advantage of drawers by filling them with unbreakable items (towels, sheets, etc.), and pack boxes completely, so you aren’t moving empty space.

cables in sound system
Take pictures

Before unhooking cords or taking furniture apart, take a picture of how it’s set up to help with reassembly.

Step 1: Create a packing timeline


We recommend starting to pack at least 4 weeks before moving day, but you can begin as soon as you know you’re moving. A solid timeline helps reduce last-minute stress and ensures everything’s packed safely.

Want a more detailed plan? Check out our guide for creating a packing timeline.
 

Step 2: Get the right supplies


For long-distance moves, durable supplies are key since your belongings will be stacked in the equipment and carried multiple times. 

Start with these essentials:

  • Small moving boxes
  • Medium moving boxes
  • Large moving boxes
  • Heavy-duty tape
  • Packing paper
  • Bubble wrap
  • Permanent markers
  • Box labels
  • Plastic wrap
  • Mattress bags
  • Furniture covers


And then add extra items as needed to protect against heat and humidity, keep items safe in storage and make moving day easier.

Learn where to get cheap moving supplies and check these posts about packing paper, plastic wrap and paper padding, so you’re prepared to use them.
 

Step 3: Know how to approach each room


Every room comes with its own packing challenges. We recommend starting with areas you use less often (like guest rooms or storage) and saving high-traffic areas like the kitchen or bathrooms for last.

Want to get rid of things before you move? This decluttering guide will help you decide what to keep, sell, donate or recycle.

Learn how to pack items in different rooms with these guides: 

Offices and dens


Offices are usually home to heavy, fragile and important items, so you’ll want to take your time in here. The first order of business is to find critical personal documents you’ll want to have with you during the move (more on this later!). After that, you’re ready to start.

Bathrooms


Some of the biggest issues you’ll find when packing a bathroom is preventing spills and keeping small items like cotton swabs and medicine contained. And because this room is often full of moisture, make sure everything is clean and dry before packing it. The last thing you want to find when unpacking is mold!

Living room


One of the biggest challenges with packing up the living room or another communal living space is how many different things can wind up there. We recommend organizing items by where they’ll be used in the new home and labeling the boxes accordingly.

Kitchen


The kitchen is full of small (sometimes sharp) objects, expensive appliances and fragile dishware, so you’ll want to take extra precautions when boxing up this room. Pack heavy items like canned goods in small boxes to keep the weight down and take the opportunity to get rid of containers, missing lids, old dish towels and other unwanted things.

Bedrooms


Because bedrooms hold many personal items and daily necessities, it’s smart to save them for last. This way, you’re still able to get a good night’s sleep at the end of a long day. But feel free to get started with off-season clothes or other non-essentials.

Miscellaneous


Various items found throughout the rest of the house may create some packing questions. How do you handle large, heavy stuff? What if it’s stored outside? For the most part, the packing tips above can help you navigate these items, but we’ve compiled some instructions for things that may present the biggest challenges:


Note: Some areas of the U.S. and Canada have invasive pest restrictions that require you to inspect outdoor items before moving them. Read these articles to learn how to check for spongy moths and the spotted lanternfly, if required.
 

Step 4: Pack things to keep with you


Some items should never go in the moving equipment (think essentials like medications, important documents and any valuables), and other things are nice to have during the move. This is especially important for long-distance moves, where delivery can take several days.

Here’s a list of what you should include:

  • Clothes for everyone in the household (pack for every day you’ll be without your stuff!)
  • Toiletries
  • Important documents (IDs, move paperwork, wills, passports, etc.)
  • Medications (don’t forget any pet prescriptions)
  • Pet food
  • Phone charger and battery pack
     

Don’t forget to check our do not ship list and make a plan for these items!
 

Step 5: Create an “open first” box


Pack and clearly label boxes with the things you’ll need immediately upon arrival (and load them last in the moving equipment!). This will save you from digging through dozens of boxes just to make dinner or take a shower.

Here are some must-have items to consider:

  • Basic cookware and dishes
  • Air mattress
  • Bedding (including pet beds)
  • Shower curtain and hooks
  • Towels and washcloths for everyone in the household
  • Trash bags
     

Step 6: Plan for unpacking


This part of the move may seem just as daunting as the move-out process — what do you do with all those boxes, and how do you make sure the new place stays organized?

Fortunately, setting up a new home can be pretty stress-free if you have a plan. Roll up your sleeves and follow these tips for unpacking your house.
 

Other resources for a smooth move


Looking for more moving tips? Explore our other resources for advice on making your relocation easier and stress-free.