How to Pack Every Room in Your House Like a Pro

80% of moving stress comes from packing, and in a summer heatwave, it’s even harder. Whether hiring professional packing services in Connecticut or doing it yourself, this smart, room-by-room guide helps you pack your house efficiently, safely, and comfortably.

Pack Your House For a Move

Built from mover-approved strategies and real-world tips, this is your ultimate playbook.

✅ Same-day packing & moving available in CT
✅ Minimalist, expert-approved strategies
✅ Free checklist download
✅ Ideal for DIY or full-service packing clients

Pack by Priority, Not Just by Room

Start with what you use the least. Off-season clothes, holiday décor, and basement clutter can go into boxes now. Leave daily-use items—like medications, toiletries, and kitchen gear, for last. This system keeps your home functional until moving day.

Color-Code for Speedy Unpacking

Assign a color to each room using tape or stickers—red for kitchen, blue for bathroom, green for bedroom, and so on. Place packing labels on three sides of each box and the doorframe of its target room. This speeds up unpacking and helps movers (or friends) get things into the right place.

Photograph Before You Pack

Before you pack your house, take a photo of your electronics setup, drawer layouts, and any décor you want to replicate. This visual memory helps during reassembly and avoids mistakes.

Make a Personal Essentials Bin

Each person in your household should pack one clear bin with essentials for the first night—think: toothbrush, phone charger, water, towel, change of clothes. Label this bin “Do Not Move” and keep it in your car, not on the truck.

Declutter Without the Pressure

Use the 15-minute rule when packing your house: set a timer, pick one drawer, and toss or donate anything you haven’t used in a year. Doing a little every day prevents the stress of last-minute decisions and makes room in your boxes for what matters.

Heavy Stuff Goes Low

Books, tools, and dishes go in small boxes with heavier items on the bottom. Use large boxes only for light stuff like pillows and blankets. This prevents boxes from collapsing and makes stacking safer during transit.

Handle Utilities 2–3 Weeks Early

Don’t wait. Contact your providers for water, gas, electric, and internet at least 2–3 weeks in advance. Pack modems and power strips in a labeled “setup” box for easy connection at your new place.

Keep Important Documents Safe

Passports, leases, ID cards, pet records, and moving contracts belong in a secure file folder—not in a moving box. Keep it in your car or carry-on at all times.

Packing Supply Checklist

• Sturdy Boxes (S/M/L) – Prevent overpacking and protect fragile items
• Packing Tape + Dispenser – Speeds up sealing and saves wrist pain
• Stretch Wrap – Secures drawers and bundles long items
• Bubble Wrap & Packing Paper – Cushion dishes, décor, and glassware
• Color-Coded Labels – Room-based sorting made simple
• Sharpies (Black & Red) – Label contents and mark fragile items
• Ziplock Bags – Store cords, screws, and small accessories
• Clear Bins – Visibility for priority items or electronics
• Basic Toolkit – Disassemble furniture and fixtures

Want to Skip Packing Altogether?

Collegian Movers offers full-service packing solutions throughout Connecticut. From fragile item packing and custom crating to white-glove moving service, we make packing your house stress-free. Our professional packers bring the materials, label every box, and do the heavy lifting for you.

• Full or partial home packing
• Inventory tracking and labeling
• Custom crating for fragile or oversized items
• Same-day moving and packing available

Request a free quote for packing services or call (800) 396-9638 to speak with a move coordinator.

Free Download: Packing Checklist (Beat the Heat Edition)

Get our printable room-by-room checklist to stay organized and cool during your move. Includes packing tips, heat safety reminders, and a coupon code for discounted packing services.

📥 Download the Packing Checklist Now

“We packed wrong on our last move. This time we used Collegian’s tips—and hired them for the kitchen and breakables. Worth every penny.”
— Meghan R., New Haven, CT