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We often hear from our customers that once they start packing, they quickly realise they’ve done it in the wrong order—or wish they’d had a proper plan from the beginning. It’s easy to get caught up and pack the wrong things too early.
That’s why we always recommend knowing exactly what to pack first when moving. With a few smart strategies—like starting with non-essentials and saving your daily items for last—you’ll feel far more in control.
A clear plan keeps things calm, efficient, and sets you up for a smooth, stress-free move. Let’s take a closer look.
What to Pack First When Moving: An Overview
Knowing what to pack first when moving can make the entire process more efficient and less stressful. Begin with non-essential items, gradually work through each room, and save daily necessities for last. A smart packing order ensures a smoother, more organised transition into your new home.
Start With Seasonal and Storage Items
Begin by boxing up anything you won’t need until after the move. Most homes are filled with items we only use at certain times of year, making them ideal to pack early and clear valuable space straight away.
- Holiday decorations and seasonal décor
- Off-season clothes and footwear
- Camping gear and sporting equipment
- Sentimental keepsakes in storage
- Extra linens or spare bedding
Packing these first gets unused items out of the way early. They’re low-priority for daily life and can go straight into the moving truck.
➤ Pro Tip: Want to skip the hassle of packing altogether? Our team offers expert packing services to safely prepare seasonal and non-essential items, so everything arrives organised and ready for your new home.
Pack Decorative and Non-Essential Items Next
Now turn your attention to items that serve more aesthetic than practical purposes. These can be packed without disrupting your daily routine.
- Wall art, framed photos, and posters
- Ornaments, vases, and decorative bowls
- Books, magazines, and collectibles
- Rugs and non-essential lamps
- Extra kitchen gadgets or rarely used dishes
Removing decorations early helps declutter and simplify your space for moving day.
➤ Bonus Resource: Need a full moving checklist to stay on top of everything? Explore our comprehensive guide: How to Move House Without the Stress: The Complete Guide
Box Up Spare Rooms and Low-Traffic Areas
Spare rooms are more common than you might think—around 3.2 million Australian homes have one, another 3 million have two, and 1.2 million have three (ABC). These low-traffic areas often contain the easiest items to pack, making them ideal to tackle early and build momentum.
- Guest bedroom items and furniture
- Home office supplies or extra electronics
- Craft supplies or hobby materials
- Unused toys or books in the playroom
- Garage tools and garden items
These spaces can be sealed off once packed, reducing clutter and giving you a sense of progress.
➤ Pro Tip: Label boxes by room and contents to make unpacking far easier in your new home.
Tackle Wardrobes and Personal Items Thoughtfully
Sorting through clothes and personal belongings can feel like one of the most time-consuming parts of moving. But with a clear plan, you can streamline the process and reduce unnecessary clutter before the move.
- Pack out-of-season clothes first
- Donate or discard items you no longer wear
- Use wardrobe boxes for hanging items
- Keep a suitcase with essentials for the final days
- Use soft items to cushion fragile goods
Taking the time to organise your wardrobe now saves space, reduces stress, and helps you start fresh in your new home. For more help, check out our in-depth guide: Step-by-Step Guide to Packing Clothes for a Move
➤ Insight: Over 40% of Australian households have relocated in the past five years, and one common thread among smooth moves is having a clear plan. When it comes to packing, thoughtful preparation truly sets the tone for a stress-free experience.
Save Daily Essentials and Kitchen Items for Last
Your final boxes should include only what you use daily. Pack these the day before or morning of your move.
- Toiletries, medications, and first-aid items
- Everyday kitchenware (mugs, cutlery, one frying pan)
- Important documents and chargers
- Daily clothes and shoes
- Kids’ favourite toys or bedtime items
Seal an “essentials” box last and take it with you in the car. Include items like TV remotes, phone chargers, the internet modem, keys, and any cords you’ll need immediately on arrival.
➤ Moving soon? Don’t leave it too late. Packing and booking services always take longer than expected. Avoid common pitfalls by reading the 7 Biggest Moving Mistakes
➤ Final Tip: Read our Ultimate Guide to Moving House for step-by-step help with your entire relocation.
Final Thoughts on What to Pack First When Moving
With a solid plan for what to pack first when moving, the entire process becomes less daunting. Tackling non-essentials early keeps things under control as moving day approaches.
Staying organised also ensures your essentials are close at hand when you need them. For more support, reach out or explore our other expert moving resources.
Sources:
What to Pack First (And Last) When Moving
