How to Pack for a Move: Expert Tips from Professional BC Movers
How to Pack for a Move: Expert Tips from Professional BC Movers
Packing is the part of moving that most people dread — and underestimate. Done right, it protects your belongings and makes unpacking at your new home so much easier. Here are the pro packing tips we've learned from thousands of moves across BC.
Start Early — Much Earlier Than You Think
The #1 mistake people make is underestimating how long packing takes. For a 2-bedroom apartment, plan for 15–25 hours of packing time. Start at least 2–3 weeks before your move date.
Get the Right Supplies
Don't skimp on boxes or tape — it causes damage and wasted time. Here's what you need:
- Small boxes (for heavy items like books, canned goods)
- Medium boxes (kitchen, toys, clothing)
- Large boxes (pillows, bedding, lightweight bulky items)
- Wardrobe boxes (hanging clothes — worth every penny)
- Bubble wrap & packing paper (for fragile items)
- Heavy-duty tape (don't use dollar store tape — it fails)
- Markers (black permanent markers for labeling)
Pro Tip: Liquor stores often give away free sturdy boxes — perfect for books and kitchen items.
The Room-by-Room Packing Strategy
Always pack one room at a time. Don't mix items from different rooms in a single box — it makes unpacking chaotic.
Kitchen
- Wrap plates individually in packing paper
- Wrap glasses in bubble wrap and stand them upright (never on their side)
- Fill pots with small items to save space
- Pack knives in oven mitts for safety
- Pack "open last" — you'll need your kitchen soon after moving in
Bedroom
- Use wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes — saves enormous time vs. folding
- Pack suitcases with folded clothes to maximize space
- Use towels and linens to wrap fragile items instead of bubble wrap
Living Room
- Disassemble furniture before packing day if possible
- Wrap mirrors and framed art in mirror boxes or make your own with two boxes
- Remove lamp shades and pack them separately
Bathroom
- Pack liquid items (shampoo, etc.) in sealed plastic bags to contain leaks
- Wrap bottles in paper towels for extra cushion
- Leave out essentials until moving day morning
Labeling: The Secret to Easy Unpacking
Bad labeling = nightmare unpacking. Here's the system professional movers recommend:
- Write the destination room on every side of the box (not just the top)
- Write a general contents summary — e.g., "Kitchen - pots & utensils"
- Mark fragile boxes on all sides with a big "FRAGILE 🔺"
- Number your boxes and keep a master list — you'll know if a box goes missing
- Colour-code by room with coloured tape or stickers
How to Pack Fragile Items Safely
- Never leave empty space in boxes — fill gaps with crumpled paper or towels
- Double-box extremely fragile items
- Never pack fragile items in large boxes (they get buried under heavy items)
- Use cell kits for glasses and wine glasses — available at moving supply stores
- Pack artwork and mirrors vertically (never flat)
Items You Should Move Yourself (Not in the Moving Truck)
- Passports, ID, important documents
- Cash and jewelry
- Medications and prescriptions
- Laptop and hard drives
- Irreplaceable photos
- Plants (movers typically can't insure living things)
- Keys and garage openers
What NOT to Pack
Moving companies (including SS Moving Services) cannot transport:
- Flammables (propane, lighter fluid, paint thinner)
- Ammunition
- Hazardous chemicals
- Perishable food
- Certain plants (check BC agricultural rules for long-distance moves)
The Essentials Box Strategy
Pack a clearly-labeled "Open First" box (or overnight bag) with:
- Phone chargers
- Toiletries and toilet paper
- Change of clothes
- Bedding or sleeping bag
- Coffee and snacks
- Basic tools (screwdriver for reassembling furniture)
- Paper plates and cutlery
This box goes in your car — not in the moving truck.
When to Hire Professional Packers
Consider professional packing services if:
- You have less than 2 weeks before moving day
- You have many fragile or valuable items
- You have mobility issues or physical limitations
- You want to be fully unpacked and ready to enjoy your new home faster
SS Moving Services offers full packing and unpacking services across Vancouver, Burnaby, Surrey, Abbotsford, and Langley. Get a free packing quote or call (236) 826-3168.
