Updated on 7/31/23

How to Unpack After a Move

The unpacking process can be overwhelming and tedious, but it doesn't have to be. The key is to take your time and avoid unpacking everything in a day. You'll end up frustrated and exhausted by trying to unpack everything at once. Avoid unpacking random items; take it one room at a time instead. Of course, if you need more assistance, we offer storage options for almost all types of moves. 

Below are some helpful tips to help you efficiently and effectively unpack after a big move. If you need help, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us. You can also consider hiring cleaning services to ensure your new place is tidy — no one wants to spend hours cleaning. It's always better when all you need to do upon arriving is to relax and start unpacking. 

Create an Unpacking Plan

The last thing you want is to wake up to a disorganized home because you didn't have an unpacking plan. We recommend writing down your tasks to save time and avoid burnout or frustration. To ensure you don't have to rummage through different boxes to look for items you need, we suggest you clearly label each box. Try to be as detailed as possible about what's inside the box, so you know which one to open next. You'll also be able to store each box in the correct room if you know what's inside each box. 

Start With the Essentials

Before unpacking the rest of your belongings, start with the essentials, such as kitchen and bathroom items, as well as things you need for your bedroom. For example, if you'll be arriving in the evening, you'll need to be able to easily locate your pillows and blankets. Don't forget to unpack essential kitchen items, toiletries, cleaning supplies (if you didn't hire cleaning services), medications and other items to keep your home running. 

To make sure you have access to these important items, we suggest you transport these boxes yourself rather than sending them in the moving van. These boxes must be packed separately, and you must ensure you have access to them. Just in case there are issues with the moving van, you won't have to worry when you have the essentials with you. 

Other items you can include in the essentials are extra clothing, bedsheets, a basic first-aid kit, chargers, paper supplies, kitchen utensils and plates, easy-to-make meals and cookware. When preparing to pack, include a list of your essentials, so you never forget to put them in the box. 

Take It Room by Room 

You can avoid the stress that comes from unpacking everything at once when you take it one room at a time. Clearly labeling your boxes helps you know which boxes to store in each room. Knowing exactly what's inside the box lets you avoid opening the wrong box. 

Always start by unpacking the boxes for one room as soon as you're settled in. We suggest starting with the kitchen, but don't unpack all your kitchen items at once. Start with the essentials. After unpacking those, you can start with other items, such as kitchen appliances and other cookware. If you still have leftover food or cooking ingredients with you, place them in the right storage spaces. Unpack your silverware, drinking glasses, pots and pans later.

The next step is to make your bathrooms fully functional by unpacking other essentials you'll need, including shower items or bathroom appliances, such as your hairdryer. You can work on your bedroom next and the living room last. 

Avoid opening one box after another without fully unpacking the previous box to avoid frustration. You'll be more organized when you unpack one box at a time. You can unpack decorative items as soon as you're done unpacking everything else. 

Prioritize Getting Furniture Assembled

Unpacking or installing bigger furniture can be tedious. We suggest you get professional help, especially if you have a bigger home. You can avoid mistakes and save time if you have experienced movers who can help with furniture arrangement and installation. 

Try to also avoid buying new furniture until after you have everything set up in your new home and you're fully settled. Before assembling a piece of furniture, know where it will be placed to avoid having your home look disorganized. Planning this ahead of time also helps. It's easier to determine which furniture pieces to put in each room and where to position them if you know the exact dimensions of each room. 

Organize Your Storage Spaces as You Go

It may be best to organize your storage spaces as you proceed with unpacking except when it comes to the essentials. You might need to add kitchen and living room shelves or other storage options to store important items. In that case, you might want to hire a professional to do the work. Purchasing extra boxes or storage racks may be helpful to keep your entire space fully functional. 

You can hold off on unpacking seasonal items you won't need yet. Just make sure you pack them securely to avoid damage and other problems. Avoid rushing through everything; prioritize the essentials first, then take your time unpacking everything else. Unless you have overnight visitors, you can put the guest bedroom or other extra rooms in your home last on your unpacking list. 

Get in Touch With Us

If you're planning a move soon, SMARTBOX offers long-distance moving, corporate moving and storage boxes. We can also assist with local and international moves. If you need a mover that can deliver results, please contact us today. Feel free to also get a quote online, or call our toll-free number if you have further questions.