Make your next move stress-free with these 28 insanely smart moving hacks. From packing tips to organization tricks, these ideas will save you time, money, and sanity on moving day!
Moving is one of those things that feels exciting at first—new place, new vibes—but quickly becomes overwhelming. Trust me, I’ve been there. Between packing boxes, finding lost socks, and realizing just how much stuff you own (seriously, where did it all come from?!), it can easily turn into a stressful ordeal.
But don’t worry, I’ve got your back. These 28 moving hacks are going to save your sanity, your wallet, and maybe even your friendships (shoutout to your friends who volunteered to help you move!). Let’s dive in and make this whole process a breeze.
This post is all about moving hacks.
28 Insanely Smart Moving Hacks To Make It Easier
1. Declutter Like a Pro
Before you even think about packing, go through your stuff and declutter. If you haven’t used it in the last year, you probably don’t need it. Donate, sell, or toss it—it’ll save you so much time and effort later.
2. Use What You Already Have
Skip buying tons of boxes by using suitcases, laundry baskets, and tote bags you already own. Bonus points if you pack clothes in your suitcases—it’s like a two-for-one hack!
You can also go to liquor stores or grocery stores to see if they have any extra boxes. We did and it saved SO much money.
3. Label EVERYTHING
When you’re in the middle of unpacking chaos, you’ll thank yourself for labeling your boxes. Go beyond “kitchen” or “bedroom” and add a little detail like “plates” or “bed linens.”
4. Pack a “Go-To” Box
Designate one box as your “go-to” for moving day essentials. Include items like scissors, tape, trash bags, snacks, and a phone charger. This box will be your lifesaver when you’re in the middle of unpacking chaos and need something ASAP.
5. Pack a “First Night” Box
Think of this as your survival kit. Pack essentials like toiletries, a change of clothes, snacks, and your phone charger in one box and keep it handy.
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6. Snap a Pic of Your Electronics
Before you unplug your TV, gaming console, or router, take a quick photo of the cords so you know exactly how to set them up later. No more guessing games!
7. Wrap Your Drawers
Instead of emptying dresser drawers, just leave everything inside and wrap the whole drawer in plastic wrap. It’s genius and saves so much time.
8. Use Trash Bags for Hanging Clothes
Keep your clothes on the hangers and slide a trash bag over them (pulling the bag up from the bottom). Tie the bag at the top, and boom—instant garment bags.
9. Reinforce Boxes with Tape
Nobody wants their box of books to split open mid-move. Add an extra layer of tape to the bottom of your boxes for extra security.
11. Use Towels or Blankets as Padding
Wrap fragile items like picture frames, mirrors, and glassware in towels or blankets. It’s a great way to save on bubble wrap and keep your stuff safe.
12. Pre-Pack Snacks and Drinks
Moving is exhausting. Keep your energy up by prepping a little snack station with water, protein bars, and fruit. Your helpers will appreciate it too!
13. Take Inventory
Snap a photo of what’s in each box before you tape it up. If you need to find something quickly, you can just scroll through your pics.
14. Use a Moving Checklist
Stay organized by making a checklist of everything you need to do before, during, and after the move. It’s so satisfying to check things off as you go. We have one you can have for free below.
Free Spring Cleaning Checklist
Spring cleaning for small apartments made easy (and a little fun)! Declutter, deep clean, and refresh your space—because cleaning sucks, but a clean home is worth it.
15. Pack Heavier Items in Smaller Boxes
Books, tools, and other heavy stuff should go in small boxes to avoid breaking your back (or the box). Save the bigger boxes for lighter things like bedding.
16. Take Advantage of Free Boxes
Check out your local grocery store, liquor store, or even Facebook Marketplace for free boxes. No need to spend extra money!
17. Roll Your Clothes
Maximize suitcase space by rolling your clothes instead of folding them. It also helps keep them wrinkle-free.
18. Label Cords and Chargers
Use masking tape or a label maker to identify what each cord or charger is for. You’ll thank yourself later when you’re not guessing which cord goes with your printer.
19. Use Small Bags for Screws and Bolts
Disassemble furniture? Keep screws and bolts in small ziplock bags and tape them to the corresponding furniture piece. No more mystery parts!
20. Pack Cleaning Supplies Last
You’ll need them for one last wipe-down at your old place and for cleaning up at the new one. Keep them accessible.
21. Wrap Liquids with Plastic Wrap
Prevent spills by unscrewing the cap of liquids (like shampoo or dish soap), placing a piece of plastic wrap over the opening, and screwing the cap back on.
22. Schedule Utilities Early
Call your utility companies in advance to set up service at your new place. You don’t want to spend your first night without power or internet.
23. Use Pill Cases for Jewelry
Keep earrings, rings, and small necklaces organized by storing them in a pill case. No more tangled chains!
24. Create a Moving Day Playlist
Keep the vibes high and the energy flowing with a moving day playlist. Whether it’s upbeat hits or nostalgic jams, music can make packing, loading, and unpacking way more enjoyable. Plus, it gives you something to bond over with your friends or family who are helping.
25. Cover Toiletries with Plastic Bags
Keep toiletries like toothbrushes and makeup brushes clean by putting them in resealable plastic bags.
26. Plan Your Layout Ahead of Time
If you know where your furniture is going, unpacking will be way less stressful. Sketch out a rough layout of your new place before moving day.
27. Use Laundry Baskets for Odds and Ends
Toss random items like plants, pillows, and shoes into laundry baskets. It’s an easy way to move stuff that doesn’t fit into boxes.
28. Take Time to Breathe
Seriously. Moving is a lot, so give yourself grace. Take breaks, stay hydrated, and remember that it doesn’t all have to be done in one day.