10 Labeling Tips That Save You Hours Unpacking

Moving is exciting – new home, fresh start. But let’s be honest, it’s also exhausting. You pack, lift, and transport your life across town, and then comes the most intense part: unpacking. It can feel endless. Boxes stacked everywhere, items misplaced, the chaos of trying to find your coffee maker on day one.

Here’s the thing: a little labelling strategy can save you hours, maybe even days, of frustration. And while our trusted moving services handle the heavy lifting, these labelling habits are what make the difference between a smooth move and a stressful one.

1. Make use of a Colour-Coding scheme

Colour coding is one of the easiest ways to arrange boxes. Give each room a distinct colour, and mark the location with colored tape, markers, or stickers. For instance, red for bedrooms, green for bathrooms, blue for the kitchen, and so forth.

You won’t waste time moving items around when movers arrive because they can quickly place boxes in the appropriate rooms. For bigger moves in particular, a little reference sheet with your colour codes can also help everyone stay on course.

2. Write What’s Actually Inside

“Miscellaneous” is the worst word you can put on a box. Imagine opening it on your first night expecting towels, but finding Halloween decorations. Instead, be specific. Write Kitchen – Pots and Pans or Bedroom – Sheets & Pillows.

It takes a few extra seconds when packing, but saves a ridiculous amount of time when you’re exhausted and just want to find your essentials.

3. Label the Sides, Not Just the Top

Here’s a mistake almost everyone makes: only writing on the top of the box. The moment boxes get stacked, those labels disappear. If you label the sides too, you’ll thank yourself later. No awkward lifting, and guessing for you or our team. 

4. Make a List and Number Your Boxes.

Although it requires a bit more effort, this one is revolutionary. Make a running list of the contents of each box as you pack, numbering them Box 1, Box 2, and Box 3. Instead of going through every box marked “kitchen,” you can consult your list and head straight to the exact box you need. 

5. Make “Open First” Boxes

Think about what you’ll need the first 24 hours in your new place. For most people, that’s toiletries, pajamas, chargers, and a few kitchen essentials. Pack those into clearly labeled “Open First” boxes.

Also, to avoid stress, pack a suitcase like you’re going on a short trip. That way, even if all the boxes sit untouched until morning, you’ll have everything you need.

6. Make “Fragile” Loud and Clear

Don’t just scribble “fragile” in small print and call it a day. Make those boxes impossible to miss. Use big letters, colored tape, or even pre-printed stickers. Fragile items need clear, unmistakable labels. The clearer the warning, the safer the items will be.

7. Draw a Quick Room Map

For larger homes or multi-level moves, a room map can save time for you and your movers. Post a layout near the entrance that matches the labels on the boxes. This helps movers and family members place everything in the correct location without confusion.

8. Protect Your Labels

Packing tape, water, or just rough handling can ruin labels. To keep them readable, cover them with clear packing tape or place them inside plastic sleeves before attaching them to boxes. This small step prevents frustration later.

9. Sort by Type as Well as Room

Not every item fits neatly into a single room. Grouping by category – for example, books, electronics, or seasonal clothing – keeps things consistent. Even if a box ends up in the wrong room, the label will still make unpacking easier.

10. Try Reusable Boxes

Cardboard works fine, but reusable plastic bins are even better. They’re sturdy, stackable, and often have spots where you can insert labels. Some even work with dry-erase markers so you can relabel them for your next move.

Yes, they cost more up front. But if you move often – or just like staying organized – they pay off.

Make Your Move Easy

If you properly prepare for a move ahead of time, it doesn’t have to be that stressful. A well-organized labeling system is one of the simplest ways to make unpacking easier. From color-coding to numbering, these techniques help you avoid wasted time and start enjoying your new home or office right away. 

When paired with a dependable moving company that prioritizes attention to detail, labeling turns an overwhelming task into a manageable one. At Move It Right, we take pride in making the entire moving process smoother, from packing and transport to unpacking and settling in. Contact us today to get started.