Moving to a new home is exciting, but let’s be honest—it can also be overwhelming. Whether you’re planning things on your own or hiring a flyttfirma i Sverige, between organizing, packing, and coordinating logistics, the entire process often feels like a never-ending to-do list. However, with the right approach and a few smart packing hacks, you can turn a stressful move into a smooth and even enjoyable experience.
In this guide, we’ll cover 10 essential packing hacks that will not only save you time but also protect your belongings and help you stay organized.
1. Start Packing Early
The biggest mistake people make when moving is waiting until the last minute to start packing. By following proper moving tips and beginning the process weeks in advance, you can avoid the stress of rushing.
When to start: Ideally, begin packing non-essential items (like seasonal clothes, décor, or books) at least 3–4 weeks before your move.
Pro tip: Pack one box per day leading up to moving week. This method breaks the task into smaller, manageable steps.
2. Declutter Before You Pack
Why move items you don’t even use? Relocation is the perfect opportunity to downsize your belongings.
Sort by category: Go through clothing, kitchen gadgets, and old electronics. Donate, recycle, or sell items you no longer need.
Less to move: The fewer items you have, the faster and cheaper your move will be.
3. Use the Right Packing Supplies
Investing in good packing materials will protect your belongings and make the process more efficient. Even a residential moving company will tell you that sturdy boxes, tape, and padding are the foundation of a smooth relocation.
Essentials: Sturdy boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, and permanent markers.
Creative alternatives: Use towels, blankets, and clothing as eco-friendly substitutes for bubble wrap.
Label everything: Clear labels help both you and your movers place items in the correct rooms quickly.
4. Pack an Essentials Box
Imagine arriving at your new home only to realize you can’t find your toothbrush or phone charger. That’s where an essentials box comes in.
- What to include: Toiletries, snacks, medications, chargers, a change of clothes, important documents, and basic cleaning supplies.
- Keep it close: Carry this box with you in your car rather than loading it onto the moving truck.
5. Color-Code Your Boxes
Color-coding is one of the simplest and most effective packing hacks.
- How it works: Assign a color to each room. For example, blue for the kitchen, green for the living room, yellow for the bathroom.
- Implementation: Use colored tape, labels, or sticky notes to mark your boxes.
- Benefit: Movers (or helpful friends) can quickly identify where each box belongs.
6. Pack Smart With Clothing
Clothing can be one of the bulkiest things to pack. Instead of stuffing it into countless boxes, try these hacks:
- Use suitcases: Roll or fold clothes into your luggage instead of emptying them.
- Wardrobe boxes: If you have hanging clothes, wardrobe boxes allow you to move them without wrinkling.
- Trash bag trick: Slip trash bags over groups of hanging clothes, cinch at the top, and transport them easily.
7. Protect Fragile Items Like a Pro
Nobody wants broken glassware or shattered picture frames. To keep fragile items safe:
- Double wrap: Use bubble wrap and then surround items with soft clothing or towels.
- Pack vertically: Plates and dishes are less likely to break when stacked vertically instead of flat.
- Use original packaging: If you still have boxes for electronics or appliances, reuse them for maximum protection.
8. Take Photos of Electronics Before Unplugging
Ever struggled to remember which cable goes where? A simple photo can save hours of frustration.
- Before packing: Take pictures of the back of your TV, gaming consoles, or desktop setup.
- During unpacking: Refer to the images for quick and accurate reconnections.
- Bonus tip: Store cables in labeled ziplock bags and tape them to the corresponding device.
9. Use Small Boxes for Heavy Items
It’s tempting to load everything into big boxes, but that can quickly lead to back strain—or worse, broken boxes.
- Rule of thumb: Heavy items (like books, tools, or canned goods) should go in small boxes.
- Lighter items: Reserve large boxes for bedding, pillows, and other lightweight belongings.
- Balance: This keeps boxes manageable and reduces the risk of injury.
10. Keep Important Documents Separate
Losing track of important papers during a move can be a nightmare.
- What to set aside: IDs, passports, property deeds, rental agreements, moving contracts, and medical records.
- How to store: Place them in a waterproof folder or binder and keep them with your essentials box.
- Pro tip: Make digital copies and store them securely in the cloud.
Bonus Hack: Label Boxes With a Numbering System
Beyond color-coding, assign each box a number and keep a master inventory list. For example:
- Box #1 – Kitchen: Pots & Pans
- Box #2 – Bedroom: Winter Clothing
- Box #3 – Office: Books & Files
This way, if a box goes missing, you’ll know exactly what’s inside.
Final Thoughts
Packing for a move doesn’t have to be stressful or chaotic. By starting early, staying organized, and using these packing hacks, you can make your relocation process smoother, faster, and much less overwhelming. Remember—moving is also a chance for a fresh start. The more prepared you are, the quicker you’ll be able to settle into your new home and start making memories.
So, the next time you’re facing a move, keep these hacks in mind. Your future self will thank you!
