Beyond Boxes: Expert Moving Tips You Won’t Find on Google
- The Clutterless Co.
- Apr 27
- 4 min read
Updated: May 1
Moving can be a fresh start — but without the right approach, it can also feel overwhelming.That’s where a little strategy makes all the difference.
We see moving as more than just getting from one place to another. It’s an opportunity to set the tone for your next chapter — with clarity, order, and peace of mind.
This guide isn’t a list of obvious reminders you already know. It’s a collection of real-world strategies we use every day to make moving feel less chaotic and a lot more empowering.
Take what you need. Leave the stress behind. Let’s make your next move your smoothest one yet.
1. PHOTOGRAPH YOUR TECH SET UP
Before you unplug your TV, router, gaming system, or computer, take a clear photo of the cords and connections.
TRY THIS:
Take photos from a few angles so you can see where each cable plugs in.
Tape cords to the back of each device after disconnecting, or put them in labeled baggies.
When you arrive at your new home, you’ll be able to reconnect everything quickly — no guessing, no frustration.
2. CREATE A MASTER MOVING INVENTORY LIST (WITH PHOTO BACK UP)
Keep a running list of every box number and a short description of its contents.
TRY THIS:
Number each box (Ex: #1, #2, etc.) and match it to your inventory list (written or digital).
Snap clear photos of each box’s contents before sealing it.
Photograph individual valuable items separately (art, electronics, heirlooms).
Save everything in a “Moving Day” album on your phone or cloud storage for easy access.
3. PACK A “SURVIVAL KIT” FOR MOVING DAY
Prepare a small cooler and essentials kit to keep moving day smooth.
TRY THIS:
In your cooler:
Water, sports drinks, sandwiches, easy snacks (granola bars, fruit)
In your “arrival kit”:
Toilet paper, soap, paper towels, hand sanitizer, basic cleaning spray
Bedding, towels, pajamas, change of clothes
Chargers, extension cords, medications
Keep this kit with you — not on the moving truck!
4. LABEL THE SIDE OF YOUR BOXES
Always label at least two sides (front + side) of each box — not just the top.
TRY THIS:
Use bold permanent markers or bright printed labels.
Include both the room and a quick list of major contents on each label.
(Example: “KITCHEN: Pans + Baking Tools” instead of just “Kitchen.”)
Use color-coded stickers if possible (kitchen = green, bedroom = blue).
This makes stacking, moving, and unpacking way easier.
5. PACK AN "OPEN ME FIRST" BIN FOR EACH ROOM
Make unpacking the first night a breeze by prepping special bins.
TRY THIS:
Label each bin “OPEN ME FIRST” clearly.
Examples:
Kitchen Bin: 1 pot, 1 pan, utensils, paper plates, coffee maker, basic snacks
Bathroom Bin: Toilet paper, towels, toiletries, shower curtain
Bedroom Bin: Sheets, pillow, nightwear, favorite book
Keep these bins easily accessible in your car or loaded last onto the truck.
6. GIVE KIDS A “JOB” — AND TURN IT INTO A FAMILY GAME
Moving can feel overwhelming for kids. Give them small, meaningful jobs to keep them engaged and positive:
TRY THIS:
Jobs for Younger Kids: Pack their "favorites" box, decorate moving boxes, help with snack packing.
Jobs for Older Kids: Manage a checklist, help wrap non-breakables, organize pet supplies.
Make it a Game:
Box Decorating Contest: Funniest or most creative box wins a prize (first movie pick or favorite treat).
Packing Race: Time a safe speed-packing challenge for small boxes.
Turning work into play helps kids feel important — and keeps spirits high on a stressful day.
7. CREATE A “PET TRAVEL PLAN” FOR MOVING DAY (AND BEYOND)
Pets feel the chaos of moving too — help them feel safe.
TRY THIS:
Before Moving:
Prepare a quiet, familiar room with their bed, food, and toys.
Keep feeding and walking routines normal to reduce anxiety.
On Moving Day:
Arrange a trusted sitter if possible.
If traveling yourself, set up a cozy crate with their blanket and favorite toy.
Talk to them calmly during the drive — your voice comforts them.
At the New Home:
Set up a calm "pet zone" before movers unload.
Include their familiar items and spend time with them first before you start unpacking.
This prevents stress, confusion, and keeps your pets safe and happy.
8. DEEP CLEAN BEFORE YOU UNPACK (INCLUDING OVERLOOKED SPACES)
Before the boxes and furniture arrive, give your new home a true deep clean — not just a surface wipe-down.
TRY THIS:
Focus on areas most people miss:
Inside cabinets, drawers, and closets
Baseboards, doorframes, light switches, and handles
Window tracks, vents, and ceiling fans
Behind appliances (if accessible)
Bathroom grout, tubs, and tile edges
PRO TIP:
Start at the top (ceiling fans, shelves) and work your way down (floors) to avoid re-cleaning.
Want to know exactly what to clean?
Visit our Deep Cleaning page for a full checklist and expert tips we use for all our move-in and move-out cleanings.
9. PACK BASED ON HOW YOU'LL ORGANIZE IN YOUR NEW HOME
Don't just pack — pre-organize your move.
TRY THIS:
Pack drawer contents together (nightstand items, kitchen utensils).
Group by storage areas (linen closet towels, desk supplies).
Label based on where it will live ("Master Closet: Shoes" vs. "Bedroom Stuff").
This way, unpacking is faster, easier, and more satisfying from day one.
10. USE PLASTIC STORAGE BINS INSTEAD OF CARDBOARD BOXES
Think beyond moving day and invest in smart storage.
TRY THIS:
Use clear, stackable plastic bins for seasonal clothes, tools, kitchen overflow, and decor.
Use removable sticker labels (instead of writing directly on bins) to mark them during the move.
After unpacking, simply peel off the labels — and reuse the bins cleanly for organized storage.
Plastic bins protect your items better and help you stay clutter-free long after the move.
READY FOR A CLUTTERLESS MOVE?
We believe moving should be a fresh start — organized, empowering, and as stress-free as possible.With the right preparation and a little expert strategy, you can create the smoothest move of your life — and step confidently into your next chapter.
Need help packing, organizing, or setting up your dream home?We’re here to make your move seamless, organized, and clutterless.
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