Reviewed by Expert Movers · Updated 10 October 2026
Every move is different. Use this guide as a starting point and adapt it to your property, access, dates and belongings.
Use the right box
Use smaller strong boxes for books and heavy items, medium boxes for general belongings and specialist cartons for clothes, televisions or pictures.
Protect and label
Wrap fragile items individually, fill empty spaces and mark boxes with the destination room and handling instructions. Avoid vague labels such as miscellaneous.
Prepare furniture
Empty drawers where required, secure doors and removable parts, keep fixings in labelled bags and photograph cable connections before disconnecting equipment.
Keep essentials separate
Pack one clearly marked bag or box with bedding, toiletries, basic tools, chargers, refreshments, pet supplies and anything needed on the first night.
Create a simple room code
Label cartons by destination room and a short contents description, for example Kitchen 04: mugs. Keep an inventory of fragile or valuable packed items so they can be identified on arrival.
Know when to use a professional packer
Fragile collections, large kitchens, artwork and tight move schedules may benefit from a full or partial packing service. Identify special items during the quote so materials and time can be planned.