What to Pack First When Moving: Expert Order & Tips

Moving to a new home in St. George means new beginnings, but proper planning is key to a smooth transition. One of the most common questions from our clients at Little Man Moves is: what should be packed up first? This guide details the ideal packing order—step by step—so your move is efficient, stress-free, and organized from day one.

Why Packing Order Matters

Packing isn’t just about boxing up possessions. Strategic packing helps:

Prevent last-minute chaos and forgotten items.
Protect valuables from damage.
Simplify the unpacking process in your new home.
Little Man Moves brings local St. George expertise and years of moving experience to ensure your belongings are safe and your schedule stays on track.

The Golden Rule: Start With Non-Essentials

The first items you should pack are those you won’t need before your move. This ensures daily life continues smoothly and that nothing truly necessary gets accidentally boxed away.

Step-by-Step: What to Pack First When Moving

1. Storage & Seasonal Items

Begin with what’s tucked away in storage:

Holiday decorations
Off-season sporting equipment
Memorabilia and keepsakes
Garden tools and unused furniture

Items in your attic, garage, or closets are usually out of sight and out of mind, making them perfect for early packing.

2. Out-of-Season Clothing

Pack up clothes and footwear you won’t wear again before moving.

Winter coats, boots, and holiday clothing in spring/summer
Swimsuits and shorts in fall/winter

Use vacuum-sealed bags to save space and protect from dust during transit.

3. Specialty & Rarely Used Kitchenware

Not hosting a party anytime soon? Box up:

Fine china, crystal, serving platters
Rarely used appliances (ice cream makers, crockpots, fondue sets)

Leave out just a minimal set of daily dishes and utensils.

4. Guest Rooms & Spare Linens

Pack up:

Guest bedding and towels
Extra sheets, pillows, and blankets
Furniture not used daily (desk, side table)

Keep only what’s needed for nightly comfort in your primary bedroom.

5. Books, Decor, and Artwork

Decide what you’ll want for staging your home if selling, then:

Pack books, albums, records
Take down and wrap up wall art, mirrors, and photos
Secure delicate decor with bubble wrap

Use small boxes for heavy books to avoid injury and shifting during transport.

6. Hobby Supplies & Toys

Go through closets and playrooms:

Box up board games, hobby equipment, and puzzles
Group children’s toys by type and keep only a few favorites accessible

Involving kids in this process can help ease the transition and avoid misplaced favorite items.

7. Jewelry and Collectibles

Anything small, valuable, or sentimental—pack carefully, label clearly, and keep it with you or plan for specialty transport.

8. Everyday Items—Save for Last

As moving day approaches, leave these until the week of:

Everyday clothes and shoes
Personal care items
Essential electronics and chargers
Important documents (keep these with you)

9. Kitchen Essentials

Two to three days before moving, pack up all but the necessities:

A pot, a pan, one plate and cup per person
Coffee maker, basic utensils

Let Little Man Moves know if you need professional kitchen packing—St. George kitchens often come with unique organizational challenges.

10. “Open-First” Box

Create an “open-first” box packed with crucial items to make your first night and morning smooth:

Toiletries, PJ’s, and medications
Clean sheets, towels, and basic cleaning supplies
Chargers, snacks, a coffee pot, and a small toolkit
Kids’ or pets’ comfort toys

Carry this box yourself, and make sure everyone in your family knows where to find it.

Top Tips For Packing Order Success

Declutter as you pack—donate or toss items you won’t use.
Label each box with its contents and destination room.
Tackle one room at a time for maximum efficiency.
Keep cleaning supplies, basic tools, and a first aid kit accessible.
Book with Little Man Moves early to secure top St. George moving help—our teams bring supplies, guidance, and expert care for fragile or tricky loads.

What Not To Pack First

Leave until last anything you use daily:

Phone chargers and personal devices
Toothbrushes, medications, and toiletries
A week’s worth of clothing
Key kitchen items for simple meals
Bedding currently in use

Local St. George Insights

St. George’s climate means packing schedules can change—avoid leaving boxes in cars or garages where heat may cause damage. If moving during peak times or summer, book at least 2–3 weeks ahead, and ask Little Man Moves about climate-conscious packing and specialty loading advice.

Moving Solutions, the Local Way

Little Man Moves understands every St. George neighborhood and moving challenge. Whether starting early, packing on a tight deadline, or needing full-service support, our team’s flexible solutions ensure your transition is seamless.

Frequently Asked Questions

What room should be packed first when moving?

Start with rooms used least, like guest rooms, storage, or attics. Pack rarely used belongings before daily essentials for the smoothest, least disruptive packing experience. Don’t forget closets and outdoor storage. This order provides momentum and frees up space for organized packing.

How can I stay organized during the packing process?

Pack one room at a time, labeling every box with its contents and destination. Create a checklist to track progress. Set aside one clearly marked “essentials” box for first-night needs and keep important documents with you throughout your move to St. George.

What should I avoid packing too early before moving?

Avoid boxing daily or weekly essentials—like clothes, medications, toiletries, and key electronics—too soon, or you’ll disrupt your routine. Save kitchen items, current bedding, and work-from-home supplies for last, packing them shortly before moving day for less stress.

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