Moving Checklist: Everything You Need to Pack

The Ultimate Moving Packing Checklist

Packing for a move can feel overwhelming, but with a systematic approach and comprehensive checklist, you can ensure nothing gets forgotten. This guide provides a room-by-room breakdown to help you pack efficiently and stay organized throughout your move.

Before You Start Packing

Gather Packing Supplies

• Sturdy moving boxes in various sizes
• Bubble wrap and packing paper
• Packing tape and dispenser
• Permanent markers for labeling
• Box cutter or scissors
• Furniture blankets
• Stretch wrap for furniture
• Mattress covers
• Wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes

Packing Best Practices

• Start packing 4-6 weeks before your move
• Pack one room at a time
• Label boxes clearly with room and contents
• Mark fragile items prominently
• Keep similar items together
• Don't overfill boxes - keep them under 15kg
• Use towels and linens to protect fragile items

Kitchen Packing Checklist

Dishes and Glassware

• Plates (wrap individually in packing paper)
• Bowls (nest with paper between each)
• Glasses and cups (wrap individually)
• Wine glasses and stemware (use cell dividers)
• Serving platters and dishes
• Mugs and coffee cups

Cookware and Bakeware

• Pots and pans (nest with paper towels between)
• Baking sheets and trays
• Casserole dishes
• Mixing bowls
• Lid organizers

Small Appliances

• Coffee maker
• Toaster and toaster oven
• Blender and food processor
• Stand mixer
• Rice cooker
• Electric kettle

Kitchen Utensils and Tools

• Cutlery and silverware
• Cooking utensils (spatulas, spoons, etc.)
• Knives (wrap blade separately)
• Cutting boards
• Can opener and specialty tools
• Measuring cups and spoons

Pantry Items

• Unopened dry goods
• Spices (secure lids with tape)
• Oil and vinegar (seal and bag)
• Coffee and tea
• Note: Use up or donate opened perishables

Living Room Packing Checklist

Electronics

• TV (original box if available, otherwise wrap well)
• Gaming consoles and controllers
• Cable boxes and routers
• Speakers and sound system
• All cables and remotes (label and bag together)
• Take photos of cable connections before disconnecting

Furniture Preparation

• Sofa and chairs (remove cushions, wrap separately)
• Coffee tables and side tables
• Bookshelves (empty and disassemble if possible)
• TV stand (remove doors and drawers)
• Remove table legs if possible

Decorative Items

• Picture frames (wrap glass, pack vertically)
• Vases and decorative bowls
• Candles and holders
• Plants (pack separately on moving day)
• Throw pillows and blankets
• Artwork (wrap and pack flat if possible)

Books and Media

• Books (pack spine down in small boxes)
• DVDs, CDs, and games
• Magazines and collectibles

Bedroom Packing Checklist

Clothing

• Hanging clothes (use wardrobe boxes)
• Folded clothes (pack in suitcases or boxes)
• Shoes (stuff with paper, pack in original boxes)
• Accessories (belts, scarves, ties)
• Seasonal clothing
• Jewelry (use specialized boxes or wrap carefully)

Bedding and Linens

• Sheets and pillowcases
• Blankets and comforters
• Pillows (use for cushioning fragile items)
• Mattress cover (put on moving day)
• Curtains and drapes

Furniture

• Bed frame (disassemble, bag hardware)
• Mattress and box spring (cover properly)
• Dresser (empty drawers, remove if heavy)
• Nightstands
• Wardrobe or closet organizers

Personal Items

• Alarm clock
• Lamps and light fixtures
• Books and magazines
• Personal electronics (laptop, tablet, chargers)

Bathroom Packing Checklist

Toiletries

• Shampoo and conditioner (seal lids with plastic wrap)
• Soap and body wash
• Toothbrushes and toothpaste
• Skincare products
• Cosmetics and makeup
• Hair styling tools and products
• Shaving supplies

Medicines and First Aid

• Prescription medications (keep with you)
• Over-the-counter medicines
• First aid supplies
• Vitamins and supplements

Linens and Accessories

• Bath towels and hand towels
• Washcloths
• Bathmats and rugs
• Shower curtain and liner
• Trash can and toilet brush
• Scale and bathroom accessories

Home Office Packing Checklist

Electronics and Equipment

• Computer (back up all data first)
• Monitor (original box if available)
• Keyboard and mouse
• Printer and scanner
• All cables and chargers (label clearly)
• External hard drives and USB drives

Office Furniture

• Desk (disassemble if needed)
• Office chair
• Filing cabinets (empty contents)
• Bookshelves

Office Supplies and Documents

• Important documents (keep with you)
• Files and folders
• Stationery and pens
• Books and reference materials
• Desk accessories

Children's Room Packing Checklist

Toys and Games

• Small toys (sort and box by type)
• Board games and puzzles
• Stuffed animals
• Building blocks and sets
• Electronic toys and games

Books and School Items

• Children's books
• School supplies
• Backpacks
• Art supplies

Clothing and Accessories

• Everyday clothing
• School uniforms
• Shoes and boots
• Jackets and outerwear

Garage/Storage Packing Checklist

Tools and Equipment

• Hand tools (wrenches, hammers, screwdrivers)
• Power tools (clean and pack with care)
• Gardening tools
• Ladder
• Toolbox and organizers

Seasonal and Sports Items

• Holiday decorations
• Sports equipment
• Camping gear
• Beach and pool items
• Bicycles (partially disassemble)

Automotive and Outdoor

• Car care supplies
• Outdoor furniture
• BBQ grill (clean thoroughly first)
• Garden hoses and accessories
• Paint and supplies (check for hazardous materials)

Special Items and Valuables

Keep With You

• Important documents (passports, IDs, contracts)
• Jewelry and valuables
• Prescription medications
• Laptop and work files
• Keys to new home
• Chargers for phones and devices

Special Handling Required

• Artwork and antiques (professional packing recommended)
• Musical instruments
• Collections (coins, stamps, etc.)
• Firearms (proper legal transport required)
• Important papers and records

Essentials Box for First Night

Pack a clearly labeled box with items you'll need immediately:

• Toiletries and toilet paper
• Change of clothes for everyone
• Medications
• Phone chargers
• Snacks and water
• Basic tools (screwdriver, scissors, box cutter)
• Trash bags and cleaning supplies
• Pet food and supplies
• Bedding for first night

Final Packing Tips

• Create a master inventory list of all boxes
• Number boxes and note which room they belong in
• Use color-coded labels for different rooms
• Take photos of valuable items before packing
• Keep a folder with moving company documents
• Don't pack hazardous materials (check regulations)
• Confirm what your movers will and won't move

Conclusion

A comprehensive packing checklist is your roadmap to an organized, efficient move. While packing every room can seem daunting, breaking it down room by room makes the process manageable. Start early, stay systematic, and don't hesitate to hire professional packers if you need assistance. With this checklist in hand, you'll ensure nothing important gets left behind.