Moving to a new home is exciting, but the process of packing can feel overwhelming. One of the most common questions homeowners ask is: What’s the best order to pack a house to move? The truth is, the order in which you pack can make a huge difference. Packing strategically not only saves time but also prevents damage, reduces stress, and makes unpacking smoother. In Kansas City, KS, where families and professionals are constantly relocating for work, school, or lifestyle changes, booking a Premium packing service in Kansas City can make the entire process seamless. But if you plan to pack yourself, following the right sequence is key.
Why Packing Order Matters
Packing is more than just putting items in boxes. When done haphazardly, you risk:
- Breaking fragile items.
- Losing track of essentials.
- Spending extra time unpacking.
- Paying more in moving costs for unnecessary boxes.
By following a clear order, you’ll maintain control of the process, keep items organized, and ensure that your movers or your Premium packing service in Kansas City can transport everything efficiently.
Step-by-Step Guide: The Best Order to Pack a House
1. Start with Storage Areas
Begin in places you use the least: attics, basements, garages, and storage closets. These spaces hold seasonal items and things you won’t need before the move.
2. Pack Non-Essential Rooms
Next, move to rooms that are not used daily, like guest bedrooms, formal dining rooms, or hobby spaces.
3. Sort Books, Décor, and Artwork
Bookshelves, framed photos, and decorative items should be packed next. These items aren’t necessary for daily living and can be packed early without inconvenience.
4. Out-of-Season Clothing
If you’re moving in summer, pack winter coats, boots, and scarves; if moving in winter, box up summer clothes and accessories.
5. Kitchen Extras
Start with items you don’t use daily: fine china, serving platters, mixers, and specialty appliances. Save everyday dishes and utensils for the final week.
6. Living Room Electronics
Entertainment systems, speakers, and game consoles can be packed once you’re close to moving day. Be sure to label cords and accessories for easy setup.
7. Bedrooms
Pack extra linens, non-essential clothing, and décor. Leave out only what you’ll wear or use for the final days before the move.
8. Bathrooms
Keep basic toiletries until moving day, but pack extra towels, spare soaps, and cleaning supplies early.
9. Kitchen Essentials
In the last 2–3 days, pack your everyday plates, utensils, and small appliances. Consider using paper plates and plastic utensils right before the move.
10. The Essentials Box
Finally, pack an “essentials box” with medications, important documents, chargers, snacks, and one set of dishes for immediate use when you arrive at your new home.
Tips to Stay Organized While Packing
- Label Every Box – List contents and the room it belongs to.
- Use Color Coding – Assign colors to rooms for easy identification.
- Pack by Weight – Heavy items at the bottom, lighter items on top.
- Protect Fragile Items – Wrap with bubble wrap or packing paper.
- Declutter as You Go – Donate or sell items you don’t need.
Hiring a Professional Packing Service
If packing sounds overwhelming, hiring experts is worth considering. A Premium packing service in Kansas City provides:
- Professional-grade materials.
- Trained packers for fragile and oversized items.
- Faster, stress-free packing.
- Insurance coverage for valuable belongings.
Whether you’re moving locally within Kansas City or relocating out of state, professional packing ensures your items arrive safely and efficiently.
Cost Considerations
The cost of packing depends on:
- Home size (apartments vs. multi-level homes).
- Number of fragile or specialty items.
- Whether you need full-service packing or partial assistance.
On average, homeowners in Kansas City pay anywhere from $500 for small apartments to $3,000+ for large homes with premium services.
Packing Order Recap
- Storage areas.
- Guest rooms & non-essential spaces.
- Books, décor, and artwork.
- Seasonal clothing.
- Kitchen extras.
- Living room electronics.
- Bedroom items.
- Bathroom extras.
- Kitchen essentials.
- Essentials box for moving day.
10 FAQs About Packing a House to Move
1. What is the best room to start packing first?
Start with storage areas and rooms you don’t use daily.
2. How long does it take to pack a whole house?
It can take 2–4 weeks for DIY packing, depending on home size and organization.
3. Should I pack one room at a time?
Yes, packing one room at a time keeps items organized and unpacking easier.
4. What should I not pack early?
Daily essentials like toiletries, medications, and a week’s worth of clothes.
5. How do I pack fragile items safely?
Use bubble wrap, packing paper, and label boxes as fragile.
6. When should I book movers in Kansas City?
Book 6–8 weeks in advance, longer during summer moving season.
7. Is hiring a packing service worth it?
Yes, especially for large moves or fragile items. A professional service saves time and reduces stress.
8. What is an essentials box?
It’s a box of must-have items you’ll need immediately upon moving in.
9. Do moving companies provide packing supplies?
Most professional services provide boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and labels.
10. Why choose a Premium packing service in Kansas City?
They provide expert handling, efficiency, and peace of mind for your belongings.