Packing & Preparation FAQs

Plan for 30 to 50 boxes for a 2-bedroom apartment or home. That breaks down to roughly 15-20 medium boxes, 8-12 small boxes, 5-8 large boxes, and 2-3 wardrobe boxes. Actual count depends on how much you declutter beforehand.

Movers cannot transport hazardous materials (propane tanks, paint, chemicals, ammunition), perishable food, plants (interstate), pets, or personal documents/valuables. Some also refuse to move items not packed in boxes.

Use original boxes when possible. Wrap screens with soft blankets or bubble wrap, fill empty space with packing paper, and label cables. Back up all data before the move. Keep electronics out of extreme heat - do not leave them in the truck overnight in summer.

Most movers include basic disassembly and reassembly in their service. However, doing it yourself saves time and ensures you know where all the hardware goes. Ask your mover what is included - IKEA furniture and cribs are sometimes excluded from reassembly.

A high-value inventory form lists items worth over $100 per pound (jewelry, electronics, artwork, collectibles). Interstate movers are required to provide this form. Items not listed may not be covered at full replacement value if damaged.

Use towels, t-shirts, and socks as padding. Wrap glasses and dishes individually in packing paper or newspaper. Use egg cartons for small delicate items. Stuff crumpled paper inside hollow items and fill every gap in the box.

Start 3 to 4 weeks before your move for a 2-bedroom home. Begin with rooms you use least (guest room, storage, garage) and pack daily-use items last. A 1-bedroom can be packed in 1 to 2 weeks. A 4+ bedroom home needs 5 to 6 weeks.

Pack sheets, pillows, towels, toiletries, medications, phone chargers, a change of clothes, snacks, water bottles, basic cleaning supplies, paper plates, and a flashlight. This box should be the last loaded and first unloaded.

For local moves, most movers allow soft items (clothes, linens) to stay in dresser drawers. For long-distance moves, empty all drawers to reduce weight and prevent damage. Always remove heavy or fragile items from drawers regardless of distance.

Start 2 weeks early with rarely-used items. Wrap each dish and glass individually. Use small boxes for heavy items like canned goods. Pack knives in a rolled towel. Use dish pack boxes for fine china. The kitchen takes the longest - expect 4 to 8 hours for a full kitchen.