How to Pack Clothes for Moving

Between the items hanging on the shelves, stuffed in drawers, and hidden in nooks and crannies around your room, packing your clothes before a move can quickly become overwhelming. You may not realize how many articles you have until you start packing, which can lead to haphazardly tossing pieces into boxes and bags as you get closer to moving day. Rather than wasting space and time shoving your clothes in boxes at the last minute, equip yourself with tips to streamline the process. 

WHAT TO DO BEFORE PACKING CLOTHING FOR A MOVE

Before you start moving your clothes from your closet to your boxes, there are a few steps you can take to make the process easier.

1. Declutter and Organize

Moving is a great time to downsize and prioritize. We all have those shirts that never see light or pants that haven’t fit for years. Use your move as an opportunity to start fresh, donating clothes that no longer fit or discarding those with stains or damage.

Once you’ve compiled clothes in donate, discard or keep piles, organize your keep pile. Sort your clothes into piles based on seasonality, importance or functionality. Sorting by season is often most effective to ensure you have all the clothes you need soon after moving into your new space. You should also sort by type, keeping shirts together, pants in a separate pile and other articles in respective boxes. 

2. Ensure Clothing Is Clean and Dry

Wash all of your clothes before packing. Clear your hamper and keep a small pile of clothes you plan to wear between the time you pack and move. This process will ensure you have what you need while maintaining organization. Also, take a look at some of the clothes you haven’t worn in a while. If you notice any odd smells from articles in the back, be sure to clean them as well. Ensure all articles are completely dry before packing them.

3. Gather the Right Supplies

Once you’re ready to start packing, gather the supplies you need:

• Boxes or bags: The first item on your list should be bags and boxes. A collection of both will be best for packing because you can place folded clothes in boxes while keeping hanging clothes in bags. If you have a wardrobe box or garment bag for formal or specialty hanging clothes, that’s even better. You can also use plastic storage bins if you have some on hand. 
• Packing tape: Tape can reinforce your boxes to prevent them from busting during transit or while loading and unloading. Additionally, packing tape can prevent moisture and dust from slipping through any cracks. 
• Labels and markers: Labelling your items can streamline the unpacking process. This method allows you to organize items as you move into your new space and ensure specialty items receive the care they need to avoid damage during transit. 

HOW TO PACK CLOTHES FOR YOUR MOVE BY TYPE

Depending on the type of clothing you’re packing, you can implement a few strategies to protect them and streamline your process. Below, you can find tips for packing hanging items, those in your dresser drawers and formal attire that needs extra attention. 

1. The Best Way to Pack Hanging Clothes

You have a few options for hanging clothes. Wardrobe boxes are ideal but can be an additional expense if you don’t have any on hand. Garment bags are another great choice, but you may not have enough to accommodate all of your hanging items. 

One of the easiest ways to pack hanging clothes is by using drawstring trash bags. This method is low-budget and can streamline packing and unpacking. All you have to do is slip the trash bag over your clothes while they hang in your closet. Tighten the drawstrings around the hangers for easy transport. When you get to your new space, you can place the hangers on the new rack and remove the bag for simple unpacking. 

2. The Best Way to Fold Clothes for Packing

Folding your clothing is an excellent strategy for items like pants. Work on a smooth surface, such as your bed, a table or the floor, to accomplish efficient, clean folds. Smooth out each piece before folding, and smooth again during each step of your fold to reduce wrinkles. Rolling is an effective method for other items in your dresser drawers, like T-shirts. Although your articles may face some wrinkles with this method, this strategy allows you to maximize space in your boxes, as the items will compress to their smallest size.

3. The Best Way to Pack Clothes for Moving Specialty Items

If you have formal attire or specialty items that need extra care, it’s worth investing in quality boxes. Use any garment bags or wardrobe boxes that you have at home to carefully pack these items. If you don’t have these items nearby, consider requesting custom boxes from a professional moving company. Avoid placing too many items in one box or bag to prevent crushing. Additionally, consider wrapping any delicate pieces in packing paper and Bubble Wrap to prevent damage. 

TIPS FOR STREAMLINING THE PACKING PROCESS

If you’re looking for some other ways to streamline the packing process, you’re in luck! We have tons of moving day tips to make your transition as smooth as possible! Check out these hacks for enhancing your packing process:

• Utilize vacuum-sealed bags: Vacuum-sealed bags can be extremely beneficial when moving. This space-saving technique empowers you to move more at one time and fill your moving vehicle with more items at once. This strategy is especially helpful for bulky clothing items like hoodies, sweaters and heavy winter apparel. 
• Create a moving day bag: Avoid digging into your packed boxes and bags by packing a separate moving day suitcase. This hack allows you to pack the clothes you don’t need with peace of mind. 
• Make use of your dresser drawers: If your dresser drawers easily slip in and out of your dresser, consider using them to your advantage. You can keep some of your items inside and use plastic wrap to secure them inside. This will streamline processes by avoiding the need to pack and unpack a large chunk of items. 
• Request moving assistance: Moving by yourself can be stressful because there are so many things to remember and do before and after the big day. Finding a professional moving company can ensure you have the tips, knowledge and hands you need to move everything efficiently. Additionally, a professional company can supply the packing items you need and handle delicate items with care to ease your moving concerns.

GET A FREE MOVING QUOTE FROM TRANSTAR MOVING

Efficient packing is the key to streamlining your move and finding peace of mind. Need help packing? Trust the professionals at Transtar Moving Systems to help you pack everything from fine china to your couch. Our team provides award-winning service to those in South Jersey and Philadelphia. Request a quote to see how we can help you get your move on!