Packing is perhaps the most daunting part of any move. It can feel overwhelming to have to pack every item in your home and oftentimes you don’t even know where to start. By planning what to pack first, you can avoid procrastination and stay organized throughout this very chaotic process. While it may seem like a next-to- impossible task, there is actually a rhyme and reason to packing. Here’s a comprehensive list of what to pack first when preparing for a move.

Storage Items

The belongings that you have stored away should be the first to get packed. Since they are not items you use regularly, it is not likely that you will need them anytime soon. You can even begin packing these items several weeks in advance to get a head start. This would include any items in your attic, garage, basement, or spare closets. Typically, these storage areas are also your most challenging rooms to pack, so it’s best to start with those rooms first so you won’t be too tired or demotivated. Just make sure to get rid of things you don’t want along the way and try to consolidate boxes as much as possible.

Out-of-Season Clothing

Out-of-season clothes are easy to pack early on because oftentimes they are already in boxes or storage bins. Also, like your storage items, you won’t be needing these items in the near future so it’s safe to go ahead and pack them. Getting this out of the way gives you the momentum to keep going and tackle more difficult areas of the home.

Also read: How to Pack for a Move in 3 Days: A Step-by-Step Guide

Fine China and Serveware

It is unlikely that you will be hosting any dinner parties soon, so it’s safe to go ahead and pack up your fine china and serving pieces. This checks off another significant portion of your packing, giving you the energy you need to move forward.

Decorations and Knick-Knacks

It is our picture frames, vases, and porcelain collectibles that make our house a home, but they definitely aren’t required for day to day living. You want to save your necessities for last so decorative items and knick-knacks should be among the first to get packed. This would also include things like artwork, wall hangings, and books.

Extra Towels and Linens

Most people have extra sets of sheets, extra pillows and blankets, and even extra towels. Once you know you are moving, it’s time to consolidate your linens and only keep out a few. You can wash the same few dish and bath towels so that you can go ahead and pack all of your extra linens early in the packing process.

When packing for a move, it is important to use a well-planned approach so you aren’t left searching through boxes for items that you need. It is always best to tackle the hardest rooms first, which for most people is an attic, garage, or basement. You will have the most energy early on in the process so it’s wise to get these challenging areas out of the way. Next, you want to move on to any items that you don’t use on a regular basis. Things like china, artwork, decorations, and seasonal clothing are great choices because they would be considered non-essential items. Next you could move on to spare bedrooms and non-essential furniture. Generally, the last things you want to pack are kitchen essentials, toiletries, bedroom furniture, and clothing and shoes that you are currently wearing.

As you can see, knowing what to pack first can make the whole process less intimidating. You simply need to have a plan and know where you are going to start. Be sure and gather all of your packing materials before you begin and then pick a day to get started. With the right planning and preparation, you can be packed and moved in no time!