What to Pack First When Moving

Moving to a new home in Atlanta GA is an exciting adventure but can quickly become overwhelming—especially when it comes to packing. Knowing what to pack first when moving saves time, reduces stress, and protects your belongings. Pack It Up Moving, a trusted moving and packing service in Atlanta GA, shares a detailed guide to packing smartly for your next move. Whether relocating locally or long-distance, this expert advice will keep you organized and ready for a smooth transition.

Why Planning Your Packing Order Matters in Atlanta GA

Packing is often the most time-consuming and stressful part of moving. Without a clear plan, you might pack items you still need or miss packing fragile things correctly. In Atlanta GA, with its distinct seasons and active lifestyle, planning your packing order helps you prioritize and separate essential daily items from those you can pack early.

With careful planning, your move will be streamlined and less chaotic. Starting early with non-essentials means less last-minute scrambling.

Pack Non-Essentials and Stored Items First

Begin packing the items you rarely use or won’t need immediately once packing starts.

• • Seasonal clothing and gear: Atlanta GAs weather can vary greatly. Pack out-of-season clothes early, like winter coats or summer swimwear.

• • Decorations and artwork: Picture frames, wall art, and decorative pieces can be packed ahead of time.

• • Books and media collections: These are heavy but not needed daily.

• • Holiday decorations: Pack holiday décor well ahead of time.

• • Stored boxes and attic/basement items: These are great to pack early as you likely won’t need them before moving day.

This approach frees up space and makes packing less stressful over time.

Packing the Kitchen and Dining Room: What to Pack Early

Kitchens require careful packing since many items are used daily.

• • Pack fine china, serving dishes, and special occasion glassware.

• • Wrap fragile items like glass and ceramics meticulously using bubble wrap or paper.

• • Box up seldom-used kitchen tools and small appliances.

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Save daily essentials like coffee makers, plates, utensils, and pots for last. Consider packing a separate “kitchen essentials” box to keep these items accessible during moving.

Tips for Protecting Kitchen Items

When packing glassware or fragile dishes, use crumpled paper or bubble wrap as cushioning inside the boxes. Place heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones on top. Label boxes “fragile” to alert movers for careful handling. For sharp knives and utensils, use sheaths or wrap them securely to prevent injury and damage.

Bedrooms: Off-Season Clothes and Extra Linens Go First

Bedrooms are another area where a staged packing process helps.

• • Pack off-season and infrequently worn clothes early using wardrobe boxes or vacuum storage bags.

• • Box up extra bedding, pillows, and blankets.

• • Keep everyday clothes and nightwear unpacked until close to moving day.

Organizing Clothes for Efficient Packing

Sort clothes by season and frequency of use. Donate or discard items no longer needed. Use wardrobe boxes for delicate garments that shouldn’t be folded. Vacuum-seal bulky items like comforters and winter coats to save space and protect from moisture—especially important in Atlanta GA’s climate.

Bathrooms and Toiletries: Pack These Last

Bathroom essentials are critical for everyday use.

• • Keep toiletries, medications, towels, and cleaning supplies handy.

• • Prepare a separate “bathroom essentials” kit to use the day of and after the move.

• • Include necessary items like toilet paper, soap, and personal care products in this box.

Preparing a Travel Toiletry Kit

When moving day arrives, having toiletries packed separately makes freshening up easier. Include toothpaste, toothbrushes, travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, soap, razor, medications, and any necessary personal hygiene items. This kit helps you avoid searching through boxes immediately after a long day of moving.

Create an “Open Me First” Box for Essentials

Pack It Up Moving recommends packing a clearly labeled “Open Me First” box, containing must-have items for your first day and night in your new home. Include:

• • Towels and bed linens

• • Basic kitchen supplies (paper towels, plastic utensils)

• • A few days’ worth of clothes

• • Toiletries and medications

• • Important documents (IDs, contracts). All you need to know about Renters Insurance in Atlanta, Georgia

• • Cleaning supplies for unpacking

• • Snacks and bottled water

This box should be easily accessible during unloading to ensure quick access.

Packing Materials and Boxes for a Successful Move

Proper packing supplies help protect your belongings from damage.

• • Use small boxes for heavy items like books.

• • Use medium boxes for kitchen stuff and lamps.

• • Large boxes for bulky lightweight items like bedding.

• • Specialty boxes such as dish packs for fragile items.

• • Wardrobe boxes keep hanging clothes wrinkle-free.

Pack It Up Moving uses high-quality packing materials tailored to item types to minimize damage risk.

Additional Packing Supplies to Consider

• • Packing tape and dispensers for secure sealing.

• • Bubble wrap and packing paper to cushion items.

• • Furniture blankets or pads to protect large pieces.

• • Stretch wrap to keep drawers and doors closed.

• • Markers and labels for clear box identification.

Declutter Before You Pack in Atlanta GA

Moving is a perfect chance to reduce clutter, saving packing time and moving costs.

• • Donate unwanted clothes and household items.

• • Sell unused sports gear or appliances.

• • Recycle old magazines and broken objects.

Less stuff means easier packing and unpacking.

Benefits of Decluttering Before Moving

• • Saves money by reducing the number of boxes and truck space.

• • Makes unpacking at your new home quicker.

• • Creates a fresh start in your new space.

• • Helps you donate to local Atlanta GA charities supporting the community.

Local Tips for Moving in Atlanta GA

Atlanta GA has unique moving considerations:

• • Off-peak season moves in fall or winter can lower costs and ease scheduling.

• • Prepare for sudden weather changes by keeping appropriate clothing accessible.

• • Arrange moving truck parking ahead in areas like Downtown or Briargate, the safest Atlanta suburbs.

• • Consider borrowing moving boxes locally from liquor stores or retail shops.

Weather Considerations in Atlanta GA

Atlanta GA experiences variable weather, including snow in winter and occasional thunderstorms. Check the forecast as moving day approaches. Prepare to protect outdoor furniture and plants from weather during loading and unloading. Dress in layers to adapt to temperature changes through the day.

Why Choose Pack It Up Moving for Moving in Atlanta GA?

Pack It Up Moving delivers expert knowledge and comprehensive moving support in Atlanta GA. Their services include:

• • Free, no-obligation moving estimates.

• • Professional packing by experienced crews.

• • Careful handling of fragile, bulky, and high-value items.

• • Transparent pricing with no hidden fees.

• • Flexible local, domestic, and international moving options.

• • Dedicated support teams assisting you throughout the move.

Their community involvement, including partnerships like Global Seeds of Hope, showcases their values of integrity and care beyond moving.

Moving in Riverhills: Specialized Services

For those relocating to or from the upscale Riverhills neighborhood in Atlanta GA, Pack It Up Moving offers tailored moving solutions:

• • In-depth knowledge of Riverhills’ local routes and parking restrictions for smooth moves.

• • Help with unpacking and setup to settle faster.

• • Expertise handling delicate or expensive furniture and belongings found in Riverhills homes.

Pack It Up Moving is the trusted moving partner for Riverhills residents seeking professional and reliable service.

Additional Expert Packing Tips to Ensure a Smooth Move

• • Label boxes by room and contents: Avoid guessing where boxes belong during unloading.

• • Use color-coded stickers: Assign colors for each room to simplify organizing.

• • Don’t overpack boxes: Prevent damage and reduce injury risks by keeping boxes manageable.

• • Take photos of electronics setups: Makes hooking up devices easier in the new home.

• • Pack an essentials bag: Include chargers, toiletries, snacks, and entertainment for travel days.

How to Handle Fragile and Valuable Items

Fragile and high-value items require extra care:

• • Use specialty boxes and plenty of padding.

• • Disassemble items if possible and keep screws in labeled bags.

• • Transport valuables like jewelry and important documents yourself.

• • Inform movers about delicate items for careful handling.

Final Steps: Confirm Details Before Moving Day, Georgia DMV change of address

• • Verify moving dates and times with Pack It Up Moving to avoid scheduling conflicts.

• • Confirm utility setups for your new Atlanta GA home.

• • Prepare your new home for moving day by clearing pathways and reserving parking.

• • Keep important phone numbers handy for any last-minute questions.

By starting your packing with non-essentials and stored items, progressing methodically to daily use essentials, and being mindful of local Atlanta GA moving nuances, your move can be stress-free and efficient. Use proper boxes and materials and create an “Open Me First” essentials box for convenience. Pack It Up Moving provides expert, community-oriented moving services tailored for Atlanta GA and neighborhoods like Riverhills, ensuring a smooth transition into your new home.

If planning a move in Atlanta GA, contact Pack It Up Moving for a free quote and professional moving support.

FAQ

What is the best order to pack when moving in Atlanta GA?

When moving, start by packing non-essential items you won’t need immediately such as seasonal clothing, decorations, and rarely used books or kitchenware. Then, move to items in guest rooms, storage areas like the attic or basement, before packing essentials like daily clothes, toiletries, and important documents last. Leaving a clear “open first” box with necessities helps ease the transition in the new home. This method minimizes disruption and helps keep daily life running smoothly until moving day.

How can professional movers in Atlanta GA help with packing?

Professional movers like Pack It Up Moving provide expert packing services, using high-quality materials to protect fragile and valuable items during the move. They bring specialized knowledge to efficiently pack bulky or delicate objects, reducing the risk of damage. This service saves time and stress, ensuring your move goes smoothly from start to finish. They also offer flexible packing options tailored to local, domestic, or international moves.

What should I include in my “open me first” box when moving?

The “open me first” box should contain essential items needed immediately after arrival. Include a few days’ worth of clothing, toiletries, towels, toilet paper, cleaning supplies, basic kitchen items, snacks, and important documents. Mark the box clearly and keep it accessible so unpacking starts smoothly without hunting for everyday necessities. This box reduces last-minute stress and ensures comfort on your first night in a new home.