Whether you’re moving your home or relocationg your business, a little planning goes a long way! By packing room by room and starting with items you don’t use every day, you can stay organized and protect your belongings without going crazy. Here’s how we would pack your home and some advice if you decide to pack yourself!

Before You Pack

Before you jump straight into packing, make sure you prep some things beforehand. Being prepared saves you time, so you don’t have to worry about it later on. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Boxes in various sizes: Small for heavy items like books or kitchenware, large for lightweight, bulky items like linens or pillows.
• Packing supplies, including bubble wrap, packing paper, stretch wrap, and strong packing tape.
• Labels and markers: Clearly mark each box with the room and contents. Consider a simple color-coding system for quick identification.
• Checklists for each room to track what’s packed and what’s left.
• A dedicated “first day/night” box with essentials like toiletries, phone chargers, medications, snacks, and important documents.

And don’t forget: declutter before you pack. If you haven’t used it in months or can’t remember what it is, it might be time to donate, sell, or recycle it. Less stuff means less to pack, move, and unpack!

What to Pack First When Moving: A Room-by-Room Guide

The key to great packing is working from the least-used spaces and items to the most essential. Here’s how to do it, room by room.

Living Room

Pack first: Books, seasonal décor, board games, and decorative items you don’t use daily. Wrap fragile pieces like vases, picture frames, and lamps with care.
Pack later: Electronics, remote controls, frequently used blankets, and throw pillows.

Tip: Take photos of your TV and sound system setup before disconnecting anything. Label cords with tape or tags to make reassembly at your new place a breeze.

Kitchen

Pack first: Dishes that you don’t really use, specialty cookware, holiday items, and extra pantry goods.
Pack later: Everyday plates, mugs, cutlery, and appliances like the coffee maker or toaster.

Tip: Label boxes “Fragile – Kitchen” and wrap glasses and ceramics individually. Cover knife blades with cardboard or tape so there aren’t any accidents when unpacking.

Bedroom

Pack first: Off-season clothing, extra bedding, decorative pillows, and items stored in rarely-used drawers.
Pack later: Daily outfits, pajamas, nightstand essentials (glasses, medications), and personal care products.

Bathroom

Pack first: Extra towels, backup toiletries, and cleaning supplies.
Pack later: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, medications, and other daily-use items.

Tip: Pack essentials in a separate, easily accessible bag so you can find them quickly on moving day.

Home Office

Pack first: Old files, reference books, unused office supplies, and decorative items.
Pack later: Active work projects, laptops, chargers, and stationery you use every day.

Tip: Back up your computer and label each cord. A quick photo of your desk setup can save hours of tinkering later.

Garage & Storage Areas

Pack first: Tools, seasonal equipment (like lawn mowers or snow gear), sports equipment, and holiday decorations.
Pack later: Items you still use regularly, like gardening tools or workout gear.

Tip: Group similar items together and label boxes clearly like “Garage – Tools” or “Storage – Holiday Decor” to speed up unpacking.

Laundry Room

Pack first: Extra detergents, cleaning supplies, laundry baskets not in daily use, and ironing accessories.
Pack later: The detergent you’re currently using, your iron, and dryer sheets.

Tip: Keep your washer and dryer accessible until the last few days to avoid mountains of laundry later.

Hallways

Pack first: Wall art, console tables, and seasonal rugs.
Pack later: Rugs or mats you use daily, coat hooks with jackets you’ll need until the move.

The great thing about clearing hallways early is that it creates more space to move boxes and reduces tripping hazards!

Entrances & Mudroom

Pack first: Shoes you don’t wear daily, seasonal coats, umbrellas, and rarely used storage items.
Pack later: Everyday shoes, jackets, keys, and bags that you use daily.

What to Pack First When Moving a Business: A Step-by-Step Approach

The same principles apply when moving an office or business. Start with what’s least important and save what’s necessary for day-to-day operations.

Step 1: Electronics

Pack first: Spare devices, outdated equipment, and archived files.
Pack later: Computers, phones, and any hardware needed for daily work.

Tip: Photograph setups and label cords for quick reassembly.

Step 2: Office Supplies

Pack first: Extra stationery, old folders, and unused supplies.
Pack later: Pens, notebooks, and daily-use items. Keep a small kit handy for the final days.

Step 3: Furniture & Decor

Pack first: Decorative items, extra chairs, and non-essential shelving.
Pack later: Desks, primary seating, and employee workstations. Disassemble large pieces for easier transport.

Step 4: Files & Documents

Pack first: Archived records, old invoices, and reference materials.
Pack later: Active files and ongoing project documents. Use labeled or color-coded boxes for fast retrieval.

Other Tips For Packing

• Label everything clearly. Include the room, contents, and notes like “Fragile” or “Open First.”
• Use the right box for the job. Small boxes for heavy items, large ones for light and bulky goods.
• Wrap fragile items properly. Bubble wrap, packing paper, or even soft clothing can provide cushioning.
• Take your time. Rushing leads to mistakes. Focus on progress, not perfection.

Pack Smart, Not Hard

Understanding what to pack first when moving is one of the most effective ways to reduce stress and stay in control. A room-by-room strategy helps you pack efficiently, protect your belongings, and make unpacking far less overwhelming.

Start with items you don’t use every day and save essentials for last; you’ll turn what could be a stressful ordeal into a manageable process! Start early and remember that what to pack first when moving isn’t just about boxes and tape, it’s about giving yourself some peace of mind for a stressful task. And that’s worth every carefully wrapped dish!

If you went through this whole blog and still feel like you don’t want to pack, our moving company in Ontario has add-on packing services so you can move stress-free!

The post What to Pack First When Moving: Room-by-Room Breakdown appeared first on Move It Right.

8+ Weeks Before: The Declutter Stage

Eight weeks might sound like you have all the time in the world, but trust us – these days go quickly. This is your chance to get a head start before everything gets too busy. Think of this step as a pre-move spring cleaning where you decide what’s worth bringing and what can find a new home.

• Walk through each room and make “keep,” “donate/sell,” and “discard” piles.
• Measure large furniture to make sure it fits in your new space.
• Get basic supplies: boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap (or towels), and markers.
• Start a simple inventory list to track what’s going in each box.
• Contact professional movers in your area to give them time to prepare for your move as well!

If you need more details on the decluttering process, check out our blog on how you can properly declutter your home!

6 Weeks Before: Figuring Out the Logistics

Six weeks out, you might still feel relaxed, but this is the best time to prepare your home for moving by taking care of things that don’t require boxes and tape. Line up the details that can cause last-minute headaches so you don’t have to deal with the headache later on.

• Confirm your moving date and details with your relocation team
• Check for special requirements (elevator booking, parking permits, narrow driveways).
• Create a master calendar for all moving-related tasks.
• Take photos of valuable or fragile items for insurance purposes.

4 Weeks Before: The Packing Warm-Up

A month away, things start to feel real. This is when you dip your toes into packing without turning your home upside down. Focus on items you won’t need in the next few weeks, some might call it the “I forgot I even owned this” stuff. Every box you pack now is one less thing to deal with during the final rush.

• Pack seasonal clothes, extra kitchen gadgets, books, and décor.
• Label each box with the room, what it is, and a number (that you can track on your inventory list)
• Use smaller boxes for heavy items and protect fragile ones with towels or linens.
• Keep a master inventory that matches each box number to its contents.

2 Weeks Before: The Countdown Begins

Two weeks to prepare your home for moving and the clock starts ticking a little louder. This is the point where you shift into tying up loose ends and making sure your ducks are in a row. The aim here is to have all the practical, behind-the-scenes stuff done so you can focus on packing and loading during the finale.

• Schedule utility shutoff/turn-on dates for both addresses.
• Submit a change of address form to the post office and update accounts.
• Gather important documents in one folder that you’ll keep with you.
• Book a professional disconnection service for appliances if needed.

1 Week Before: The Final Push

With one week to go, you’re almost at the finish line. This is when you pack up the last of your non-daily items, get your “first night” supplies ready, and take apart anything that won’t fit through the door as-is. You’re setting yourself up so that when the big day arrives, there’s nothing left to scramble over.

• Pack an “essentials kit” with toiletries, meds, chargers, snacks, and clothes.
• Take apart your furniture, label and bag all screws and bolts.
• Confirm arrival time and parking arrangements with the transport team.
• Finish packing all non-essential items.

3 Days Before: Protect and Prepare

Just a few days away now. This is the moment to prep your current home for your big exit. A little time spent here can save both you and your movers time on moving day. You’ll also want to think about your first night in the new place, so you’re not digging through boxes to find a pillow or a pan.

• Defrost and clean the fridge/freezer 24 to 48 hours before moving.
• Lay down cardboard or old rugs along main pathways so the floor stays protected.
• Pack a “first night” box with bedding, towels, and kitchen basics.
• Make final decisions on plants or other special items.

1 Day Before: The Double-Check

The day before is like the calm before the storm. This final sweep is to make sure the storm doesn’t knock anything over. This is your safety net day, making sure nothing gets left behind and that everything is clearly labeled and ready to go.

• Do a final sweep of closets, cabinets, attic, and garage.
• Bag and label loose hardware, attaching it to the matching item.
• Keep valuables, important papers, and keepsakes with you.
• Prepare parking or access instructions for the transportation crew.

Move-Day Morning: Calm and Collected

Moving day has arrived, and the goal now is to keep things running smoothly. A quick walk-through and a little organization first thing in the morning can set the tone for the rest of the day. Think of it as the last lap in a well-paced race.

• Walk through each room, closing windows and turning off lights.
• Keep your essentials kit and valuables with you.
• Protect fragile items and keep pathways clear for easy loading.
• Check off each box or item on your inventory list as it’s loaded.

If you don’t think you can get everything done on your own, our trusted Toronto moving company offers packing, loading, and unloading, transportation services so that you don’t have to deal with any unnecessary stress! A helping hand never hurts.

The Day After: Your Well-Earned Break

And just like that, you’ve made it through moving day! The boxes are stacked, the heavy lifting is done, and now it’s time to take a deep breath. The day after is your chance to rest, recharge, and let it sink in that this new space is yours. You’ve worked hard to prepare your home for moving, and now you get to enjoy the payoff! Order your favourite takeout and put your feet up – you’ve earned this moment!

The post How To Prepare Your Home for Moving appeared first on Move It Right.

Here’s the detailed step-by-step guide to decluttering before your move!

Step 1: Start With a Plan

Before you start tossing things in bags or boxes, take a moment to create a real plan. Decluttering before moving works best when you give yourself time and direction. First, mark your move-out date and work backward to create a simple timeline. Dedicate specific days to each room or zone in your home.

Second, set clear goals to stay motivated. Here are some suggestions for what your goal can look like:

• Want to cut down on clutter? Aim to reduce what you own by a certain percentage.
• Need to save money or make extra cash? Prioritize selling items in good condition.
• Trying to stay organized? Focus on keeping only what serves a purpose in your new space.

Third, set up four clearly labeled boxes or bins: keep, sell, donate, and discard. This visual system helps you make quick decisions and keeps clutter from just moving to a new corner of the house.

What to Avoid When Making Your Decluttering Plan

Don’t feel demotivated yet! Getting through the first step is a great accomplishment. But, even with a great plan, it’s easy to fall into a few common traps. Here’s five things that you need to avoid before getting started:

1. Procrastinating until the last minute: Decluttering the night before a move leads to stress, broken items, and rushed decisions. Take the time to assess your items. It’ll also give you more leniency when deciding if you want to keep or get rid of it.
2. Holding onto things “just in case”: If it hasn’t been useful in the last year, odds are it won’t be in your new space either.
3. Keeping duplicates: Do you really need five spatulas or three almost-identical winter coats?
4. Ignoring digital clutter: Old paperwork, cords, chargers, or tech accessories that no longer work should be part of your sort.
5. Starting without a plan: Wandering from room to room can make decluttering feel endless. Stick to your schedule and keep the cluttered brain and home at bay.

Step 2: Ask Yourself the Right Questions

We know it’s hard to part with things because we’re emotionally attached or unsure if we’ll regret it later. These three simple questions can help you make solid decisions, especially when decluttering before moving.

Have I Used This in the Last Year?

This question works best for items like clothing, kitchen gadgets, bathroom products, or tools. If it hasn’t been touched in 12 months, chances are you won’t miss it. Exceptions can be made for seasonal or emergency-use items, but don’t stretch it. If it’s collecting dust, it’s not doing its job!

Does This Spark Joy?

Famously recognized as the KonMari method, this question is ideal for sentimental pieces, decorations, or gifts you’ve kept out of guilt. If an item doesn’t make you smile or bring back good memories, it’s okay to let it go! You can thank it for its purpose and service while in your possession, and choose to donate or sell it. Someone else might find value in it where you no longer do!

Is It Worth the Space It Takes Up?

Space is valuable, especially when packing. Ask yourself if an item deserves the square footage it’ll take up in a box or your new home. If it’s bulky, rarely used, or a hassle to move, it might be time to part ways.

If you’re looking for a little extra help with the heavy lifting after decluttering, consider reaching out to a local moving company that can help bring your plan to life smoothly. Our Toronto moving services are ready with local support and expertise when you need it!

Step 3: Sell, Donate, or Discard Responsibly

You’ve sorted your items and asked yourself the right questions. Now what? Here’s how to take the next step with each pile.

How to Sell My Items

If you’re hoping to make some cash from your decluttering efforts, try selling gently used items through:

• Online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace, Kijiji, or OfferUp
• Garage or yard sales, especially if you have lots of smaller items
• Specialty apps for clothing (e.g., Poshmark), books (e.g., BookScouter), or electronics (e.g., Swappa)

When selling, clean your items, take good photos, and include measurements or details in your listings. Buyers like transparency and quick responses!

Where to Donate

If you’re ready to give your stuff a second life, donations are a great way to do it. Check out:

• Local thrift stores or secondhand shops
• Shelters, community centers, or charities
• Donation bins (for clothing and shoes)
• Libraries or schools (for books or supplies)

Make sure what you’re donating is clean and in usable condition. If it’s broken, better to recycle or toss it.

How to Discard Responsibly

For the items that can’t be sold or donated, don’t just toss everything into one big trash bag. Think sustainably:

• Recycle electronics, batteries, and light bulbs through proper recycling centers
• Call your municipality for large-item pickup or special drop-off instructions
• Use designated bins for hazardous waste (paint, chemicals, etc.)

Being thoughtful here reduces waste and keeps your community clean. If you’re unsure what goes where, check out Ontario’s waste management page to learn more about how you can responsibly dispose of your clutter!

How Decluttering Makes Moving Easier

Being honest, moving is enough work on its own. But decluttering before moving makes every part of the process lighter, easier, and more rewarding! These are the benefits we’ve seen for every one of our customers over the years:

• Less overall stress on the day of your move
• Fewer boxes to pack, move, and unpack
• Faster setup in your new home with only the essentials
• Lower costs for packing materials and transportation

Plus, when you open that first box in your new place, it feels great knowing everything inside actually matters to you.

It’s Time To Declutter

The decluttering process won’t always be perfect, but being prepared to tackle the monster that it is will take the weight right off your shoulders during your move. By planning early, asking the right questions, and making informed decisions about what stays and what goes, you’ll set yourself up for a great move! Take it one room at a time, and remember: letting go of the excess makes room for the things that really count!

The post Keep, Sell, Donate, or Discard? Steps For Decluttering Before Your Move appeared first on Move It Right.

Why Does The Type of Tape Matter?

It might not seem like a big deal, but tape holds everything together, literally. If your tape doesn’t stick properly or rips too easily, your boxes might come undone in the middle of being carried, stacked, or loaded into a truck. Strong tape helps protect your stuff, keeps your boxes sealed during transport, and makes stacking easier.

Plus, not all tape works the same way. Some are better for heavier items, others for quick packing. And a lot of them are better off left in storage for another day. That’s why choosing the right box tape for moving really does matter.

Best Tapes for Moving

Let’s take a look at the different types of tape you’ll find and what each one is best used for.

Clear Packing Tape (Acrylic or Hot Melt)

Make sure this is clear packing tape and not just regular clear tape. Check the label to make sure the tape is made for packing before purchasing!

Best for: Everyday boxes with medium to light items.
How to use it: Works well with a handheld tape gun or apply by hand. Apply across the seams on the top and bottom of your box.
Benefits: Affordable, sticks well, easy to use.
Disadvantages: Some types don’t hold up in cold or humid weather; check the label for strength.

Water-Activated Tape (WAT or Gummed Tape)

Best for: High-value items or boxes that need extra security.
How to use it: You’ll need a special dispenser and a bit of water to activate the glue on the tape.
Benefits: Super strong seal that won’t peel off.
Disadvantages: Slower to apply and needs equipment.

Filament Tape (Reinforced with Fiberglass Threads)

Best for: Heavy boxes with books, tools, or equipment.
How to use it: Apply by hand or with scissors; it’s too strong for a standard tape dispenser.
Benefits: Very durable and hard to tear.
Disadvantages: Not ideal for sealing the top of boxes but it’s best used to reinforce the bottom.

Easy-Release Packing Tape

Best for: Quick jobs or people new to packing.
How to use it: Use with a quiet-release tape gun; it doesn’t twist or tear.
Benefits: Easy to apply, no sticky tangles.
Disadvantages: May not be as thick or strong as heavy-duty types.

How to Properly Tape Your Box

Even the best box tape for moving won’t help if you don’t use it the right way.

• Use the H-Taping method: This means taping along the center seam of the box (where the flaps meet), across both edges (side seams) to form an “H” on both the top and bottom. This method makes sure your box is secure without overusing tape.
• Reinforce heavy boxes: Use extra tape at the bottom of any box carrying books, dishes, or tools. 2 to 3 strips of tape across the bottom flap will keep it from bursting open.
• Use the right amount of tape: A good rule to follow is to buy 1 roll of tape for every 10 to 15 boxes. It’s better to have extra than to run out halfway through packing day. Choose rolls that are at least 2 inches wide for more hold with less effort.

What to Avoid in Your Packing Tape

When choosing box tape for moving, skip these options:

• Duct tape: The adhesive is designed for smooth, non-porous surfaces, which means it often lifts or peels away from the fibrous texture of most moving boxes. Plus, in humid or cold conditions, it can lose grip even faster, making it unreliable for keeping boxes sealed during a move.
• Masking or painter’s tape: This is a great option for labelling boxes as its easy to write on but they often peel off easily and aren’t made for weight. It has the strength of an ant!
• Cheap or thin tape: If it looks flimsy or tears in the dispenser, it won’t hold under pressure.
• Old tape: Rolls that have been sitting around for years may have lost their stick.

Avoid buying tape just because it’s the cheapest. Keeping your belongings safe and secure is our top priority as an affordable mover in the GTA. Poor tape quality can cost you more in damaged items or wasted time.

Keeping It Together

Tape might seem like a small part of your packing plan, but now you know it’s not. Choosing the right box tape for moving keeps your stuff safe, your boxes sealed, and your packing process on track. Enjoy a stress-free move without worrying about the little things like tape!

The post Choosing The Right Box Tape for Your Move appeared first on Move It Right.