Packing is the part of moving that most people dread — and for good reason. Done wrong, it leads to broken items, lost belongings, and a chaotic moving day. Done right, it makes your entire move faster, cheaper, and way less stressful. These are the exact tips our Chicago movers use every single day.
Start Early — Way Earlier Than You Think
Most people underestimate how long packing takes. A 2-bedroom apartment takes 15–25 hours to pack properly. Start 4–6 weeks out for larger homes. Begin with storage areas, seasonal items, and books — things you won't need before moving day.
Use the Right Box Sizes
Small boxes for heavy items (books, dishes, tools). Medium boxes for most household items. Large boxes for light, bulky items (pillows, linens, lampshades). Never overfill large boxes — they become impossible to carry and can break.
Label Every Box — Top AND Sides
Write the room AND contents on every box. Label the top and at least two sides so you can read it when boxes are stacked. Use color-coded tape by room for even faster unloading. Your Chicago movers will thank you.
Pack Room by Room
Never mix items from different rooms in the same box. Pack one room completely before moving to the next. This makes unpacking dramatically faster and helps movers place boxes in the right rooms immediately.
Protect Fragile Items Properly
Wrap dishes individually in packing paper. Pack plates vertically (like records) — they're 3x less likely to break. Use cell dividers for glasses. Fill every empty space with crumpled paper. A box that rattles = broken items.
Pack an "Open First" Box
Pack a clearly labeled box with everything you'll need the first night: phone charger, toiletries, change of clothes, coffee maker, toilet paper, and important documents. This box rides in your car, not the moving truck.
Disassemble Furniture in Advance
Take apart bed frames, desks, and shelving units before moving day. Keep all screws and hardware in labeled zip-lock bags taped to the furniture piece. This saves significant time and money on your hourly moving rate.
Take Photos Before Disconnecting Electronics
Photograph the back of your TV, computer, and entertainment system before unplugging. This makes reconnecting at your new place much faster. Also photograph any valuable items for insurance purposes.
Room-by-Room Packing Guide
Kitchen
- Pack dishes vertically in dish packs
- Wrap glasses individually, never stack
- Use original boxes for small appliances
- Pack pantry items in small boxes (heavy!)
- Defrost and clean fridge 24 hours before move
Bedroom
- Use wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes
- Pack shoes in original boxes or wrap individually
- Use mattress bags for all mattresses
- Disassemble bed frame and bag all hardware
- Pack jewelry and valuables separately in your car
Living Room
- Wrap TV in moving blankets or original box
- Photograph electronics before unplugging
- Disassemble large furniture pieces
- Wrap picture frames in packing paper
- Use furniture sliders for heavy pieces
Bathroom
- Seal liquid bottles with tape or plastic wrap
- Pack toiletries in zip-lock bags
- Use towels to wrap fragile bathroom items
- Keep medications in your personal bag
- Discard expired products — don't move them
Don't Want to Pack? We'll Do It For You
RELIX Moving offers professional packing services in Chicago for full homes, single rooms, or just fragile items. Our trained packers use professional-grade materials and pack everything safely and efficiently.
Whether you need apartment movers in Chicago or a full-service residential move, we handle everything from packing to unpacking.
Need Professional Packing Help?
Full-service packing available. Same-day response. No hidden fees.