How To Pack Smarter for Your Home Relocation

Darion Pugh • March 28, 2022

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Packing is usually the part of moving that sneaks up on you. One day everything’s in place, and the next, you’re knee-deep in boxes, tape, and piles of stuff you forgot you even had.


It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially when you’re not sure where to start. That’s why I’ve pulled together a list of tips and tricks that helped make packing a little easier in our last move. From building a simple moving kit to finding the right boxes (without spending a fortune), this post is packed with ideas that actually work.



If you’re in the middle of packing—or about to begin—these tips are for you.

1. Set Up Your Essential Moving Kit

Before you start packing, take a few minutes to put together a small kit with all the tools you’ll use most often. This will save time and help you stay organized while everything else is in motion.


Here’s what to include:


  • Packing tape and a tape gun

  • Scissors

  • Sharpies or permanent markers

  • Box labels or color-coded stickers

  • A screwdriver or other basic tools

  • Small baggies for screws and hardware

  • A folder for mail, receipts, or important documents

Keep this kit somewhere central—like the kitchen counter or entry table—so it’s always within reach. If you're taking apart furniture, drop the screws into labeled baggies and keep them in this kit too. It’s one of those small habits that pays off big when you’re unpacking on the other side.

2. Create a Moving Binder to Stay Organized

When you're knee-deep in packing, it's incredibly easy for important papers and tasks to disappear into the chaos. That's exactly why setting up a simple moving binder can be such a huge help. Think of it as your personal command center, keeping all your crucial documents and checklists in one tidy spot. No more digging through random drawers or piles when you're in a hurry!


So, what should you toss into this magical binder? You'll want a master checklist for the whole move – this keeps you on track from start to finish. Also, include a change of address list so you don't forget to notify the post office, your banks, utilities, and anyone else who needs your new location. It's smart to tuck away contact info for your movers or storage facility, along with any receipts or confirmation emails related to the move. And if you have them, any essential school, medical, or insurance records should definitely find a home here.



The best part? You don't need anything fancy. Just grab any one-inch binder you already have lying around. Then, hit the internet! There are tons of free printable checklists available everywhere, especially on sites like Pinterest. These printables are awesome because they cover everything from who to notify to what to pack when, and they often remind you of things you might totally overlook, like updating loyalty cards or online delivery addresses. Someone else has literally done all the thinking for you – you just get to use it and stay organized!

3. Declutter One Area at a Time

Packing is way easier when you’re not packing things you don’t even need. Before you start filling boxes, take some time to go through your stuff and declutter. But don’t try to do it all at once—that just gets overwhelming.


Instead, focus on one area at a time. If you normally do zone cleaning, this works the same way. For example:


  • In the kitchen? Go through your pantry, pots, and glassware

  • In the bedroom? Sort out clothes, shoes, and bags

  • In the bathroom? Toss old products and pack extras

Ask yourself: Have I used this lately? Do I want to move it?


The things you no longer need can be donated, recycled, or tossed. Once a space is decluttered, start packing the non-essentials right away—like holiday decor, extra linens, or anything you won’t need for a while.



This keeps things manageable and helps your home feel less crowded as moving day gets closer.

4. Pack Smart: Start with Non-Essentials

Once you’ve decluttered a space, the next step is to pack the things you won’t need anytime soon. This makes it easier to stay organized and keeps your home feeling less chaotic as moving day approaches.


Here’s what to pack first:



  • Decorations and seasonal items

  • Books, extra linens, and rarely used kitchen tools

  • Clothes you won’t wear for a while (off-season or extra outfits)

  • Furniture you can live without for now (if you have storage space)

If you have kids, pack away most of their toys—just leave out the favorites. The same goes for toiletries. Keep out only what you use daily, and pack the rest in bins or labeled bags by category.


A good tip: put together an “overnight bag” with essentials for each family member—just like you would for a trip. Include outfits, pajamas, shoes, toiletries, and any must-haves. It cuts down on laundry and clutter, and it makes those last few days in your old place much smoother.

5. Use Paper Goods and Pack the Kitchen Early

The kitchen is one of the hardest rooms to pack because so much of it gets used daily. But waiting until the last minute can make things stressful—especially when you’re still trying to cook and clean while packing.


Here’s a better way to do it:


  • Start by packing anything you don’t use often—specialty appliances, extra utensils, baking tools, serving dishes.

  • Keep out just a few basics: one pot, one pan, some utensils, and one or two plates or cups per person.

  • Switch to paper plates, bowls, and plastic cutlery for the final stretch. No more dishes to wash while you're deep in boxes.

If you have an Instant Pot or slow cooker you use often, leave it out and use it for simple meals during the move. The rest—especially fragile items—can be packed early and labeled clearly.



Packing the kitchen in stages makes a big difference. It lets you keep living in your home while also making real progress toward moving out.

6. Find Boxes Without Spending a Fortune

Buying moving boxes sounds simple—until you see the price tag. Depending on how much you need, the cost can add up fast. The good news? You don’t have to spend a lot (or anything) if you know where to look.


Here are some places to find free or low-cost boxes:



  • Walmart – Ask store staff early in the morning. They’ll often save you a bundle of sturdy boxes from overnight stocking.

  • Liquor stores – These boxes are strong and usually come with built-in dividers, which are great for packing glasses, DVDs, or small items.

  • Craft stores or office supply stores – Call ahead and ask if they can set aside boxes for you.

  • Grocery stores – Fruit boxes (especially apple or orange boxes) are a perfect size and often come with handles. Avoid banana boxes—they usually have a hole at the bottom.

  • Friends or family who work retail – If you know someone who works at a store, ask. They might be able to hook you up with a whole pallet’s worth.

You can also reuse storage bins or invest in a set of heavy-duty duffel-style moving bags. They’re especially helpful for soft items like clothes, towels, or toys—and they’re reusable after the move.

7. Label Everything (and Make It Easy to Unpack)

One of the best things you can do for your future self is to label every single box. When you're tired, sweaty, and unloading at your new place, clear labels make everything simpler—for you and for anyone helping.



Here are a few labeling tips that really work:


  • Label by room – Write the room name on the top and at least one side of every box: Kitchen, Master Bedroom, Bathroom 2, etc.

  • Color-code – Use colored stickers or pre-made moving labels. Assign each room a color (green for kids’ room, pink for the bathroom, etc.). This makes sorting boxes quick and visual.

  • Be specific – Instead of just “Kitchen,” write “Kitchen – Pantry Items” or “Kitchen – Plates and Cups.”

  • Make a key – If you’re using colors, post a quick guide near the front door or in the garage so movers or friends know what goes where.

Pre-printed label packs (like the ones on Amazon) can save you time. And if you’re hiring movers, this system helps them place boxes exactly where they belong—no guessing required.


It might take a little extra time now, but it’ll save you a lot of chaos later.

8. A Few Packing Hacks That Actually Work

Sometimes, it’s the little things that make packing smoother. These quick tips helped us a lot—and they’re easy to try, even if you’re already halfway through your packing.



  • Use a towel to pack jewelry – Lay necklaces on a towel, roll it up gently, and they won’t tangle.

  • Spices in a slow cooker – Put your spice jars inside your slow cooker, snap the lid shut, and you’ve packed two things at once.

  • Use zippered storage bags – Heavy-duty moving bags (like the ones sold in sets online) are great for towels, linens, purses, and soft items. They can be carried like backpacks or by the handles.

  • Sort bathroom stuff by category – Use small bins for dental care, bath items, first aid, and keep them labeled. That way you’re not digging through a mess of toiletries later.

  • Leave clothes in drawers – If the furniture is going with you and isn’t too heavy, leave non-breakables like clothes or towels inside. Wrap the whole drawer with plastic wrap.

  • Skip the laundry – Pack enough clothes for a week or two and rewash as needed. It cuts down on laundry and gives you less to move.

Each small hack adds up to a smoother move. Try what fits your situation and ignore the rest—no pressure, just options.

Packing doesn’t have to feel like a disaster. With a little planning, some smart shortcuts, and a focus on staying organized, you can make the whole process a lot more manageable. Start early, go one step at a time, and don’t be afraid to simplify wherever you can.



If you’ve got a packing tip or trick that’s worked for you, feel free to share it—because honestly, we’re all just trying to make moving a little easier.

InNout Movers: Your Texas Relocation Experts

Pack Fragile Items Like a Pro

By Darion Pugh • August 18, 2025
Moving can be an exciting new chapter, but the thought of packing fragile items often brings a wave of anxiety. Will your cherished glassware survive the journey? How do you ensure that an antique vase arrives in one piece? The good news is that with the right techniques and materials, you can significantly reduce the risk of breakage. This will walk you through everything you need to know to pack fragile items safely, ensuring your delicate possessions are well-protected from start to finish. At InNout Movers, you can trust our tailored packing services to handle everything with the highest level of care, we understand the value both monetary and sentimental of your belongings. We've seen it all, and our expertise comes from years of helping people move their most precious items without incident. By following these proven methods, you'll gain the confidence to pack even your most delicate pieces with peace of mind. What Supplies Do You Need to Pack Fragile Items? To pack fragile items safely, you'll need a specific set of high-quality packing supplies designed to provide maximum protection. Having the right materials on hand before you begin is crucial. Here’s a list of essential supplies: Sturdy Moving Boxes: Opt for double-walled boxes for extra strength, especially for heavier fragile items. Dish pack boxes (sometimes called dish barrels) are specifically designed for kitchenware and offer excellent protection. Packing Paper/Newsprint: Unprinted newsprint is ideal as it won't transfer ink onto your items. Use it for wrapping individual pieces and for crumpling as void filler. Bubble Wrap: A must-have for cushioning. Choose between small bubble wrap for individual items and large bubble wrap for filling gaps or wrapping larger pieces. Packing Peanuts: Excellent for filling empty spaces in boxes and providing an all-around cushion. Packing Tape: Strong, reliable packing tape is essential to secure your boxes. Avoid masking tape or duct tape. Markers: For clearly labeling boxes as "FRAGILE" and indicating their contents. Scissors/Box Cutter: For cutting tape and packing materials. According to a survey by the American Moving and Storage Association, proper packing supplies are cited as a key factor in preventing damage during moves, with professional packing services often utilizing specialized materials to ensure item safety. inNout movers provides reliable, efficient furniture assembly services that make setting up new furniture simple and stress-free. How Do You Prepare Fragile Items Before Packing? Proper preparation is the first critical step in ensuring your fragile items are packed safely and securely. Before you even reach for the packing paper, there are a few important steps to take. Clean and Dry: Ensure all items are clean and completely dry. Moisture can weaken packing materials or damage certain items over time. Disassemble Where Possible: If an item can be safely disassembled (e.g., a multi-piece sculpture or lamp), do so. Wrap each component separately. Keep all screws and small parts in a labeled plastic bag and tape it directly to the main component or the outside of the box. Inspect for Existing Damage: Before packing, take a moment to inspect each fragile item for any existing chips, cracks, or damage. Document these with photos. This is important for insurance purposes and to avoid disputes later. What is the Best Way to Wrap Fragile Items? The key to preventing breakage lies in proper wrapping techniques, creating a protective barrier around each item. Individual wrapping is paramount when learning to pack fragile items.

How to Downsize From a House to an Apartment: Your Ultimate Guide

By Darion Pugh • August 12, 2025
Are you considering making the move from a spacious house to a cozy apartment? Downsizing can be an exciting yet challenging transition, requiring careful planning and strategic execution. This will walk you through the essential steps on helping you navigate the process with ease and efficiency. The thought of decluttering years of accumulated belongings can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, it's entirely manageable. We'll delve deep into the best practices and local moving tips , including a handy checklist and insights into cost factors. Whether you're seeking a simpler lifestyle, reducing your carbon footprint, or cutting down on expenses, downsizing offers numerous benefits. Why Should You Consider Downsizing from a House to an Apartment? Many people choose to downsize from a house to an apartment move for a variety of compelling reasons. Often, this decision is driven by a desire for reduced maintenance, lower living costs, and a more streamlined lifestyle. A smaller living space means less to clean, fewer repairs to manage, and typically lower utility bills, which can free up both time and financial resources. Beyond the practical benefits, downsizing can also lead to a greater sense of freedom and flexibility. It encourages a more minimalist approach to living, prompting individuals to evaluate their possessions and keep only what truly adds value to their lives. When Is the Best Time to Start Downsizing? The best time to start downsizing is as soon as you know you'll be moving to a smaller space, ideally several months before your actual moving date. Beginning early allows you to tackle the process gradually, preventing last-minute stress and rushed decisions. Giving yourself ample time ensures you can thoughtfully go through your belongings, decide what to keep, sell, donate, or discard, and avoid feeling overwhelmed. How Do You Begin the Downsizing Process? You begin the downsizing process by creating a clear plan and breaking down the task into manageable steps. Start with a realistic assessment of your current belongings and the space available in your new apartment. A good first step is to categorize your items and decide on a systematic approach for decluttering each area of your home. Here’s a structured way to begin: Create a Floor Plan for Your New Apartment: Understand the layout and dimensions of your new space. This will help you visualize what furniture and items will realistically fit. Set Clear Goals: Determine what you want to achieve with downsizing – is it purely about space, or also about financial savings or a simpler lifestyle? Gather Supplies: Have plenty of moving boxes, labels, markers, packing tape, and cleaning supplies ready. Establish a "Keep," "Donate," "Sell," "Discard" System: Use designated areas or bins for each category to keep things organized. What's the Most Effective Way to Declutter Room by Room? The most effective way to declutter room by room is to tackle one area at a time, moving systematically through your house. Start with less emotionally charged rooms or areas, like a guest bathroom or laundry room, to build momentum and practice your decision-making skills before moving to more personal spaces like bedrooms or the living room. For each room, follow these steps: Empty and Assess: Take everything out of closets, drawers, and shelves in that specific area. This allows you to see everything you own. Categorize: For each item, immediately decide if it falls into one of these categories: Keep: Items you love, use regularly, and know will fit in your new apartment. Donate: Items in good condition that you no longer need but someone else could use. Consider local charities, thrift stores, or community centers. Sell: Valuable items that you no longer want. Online marketplaces, consignment shops, or garage sales can be good options. Discard/Recycle: Broken, expired, or truly unusable items. Be mindful of proper disposal methods for hazardous materials. Be Ruthless but Realistic: Ask yourself key questions: Have I used this in the last year? Does this item serve a real purpose in my life? Does it bring me joy or truly add value? Will it fit in my new apartment? Do I have duplicates? Put Back Only What Stays: Once you've sorted, only return items designated for "keep" to their designated spots (or pack them if you're ready). This visual confirms your progress. How Do You Downsize Furniture and Large Items? Downsizing furniture and large items requires careful consideration of both sentimental value and practical space constraints in your new apartment. Before moving, measure your new apartment’s doorways, hallways, and room dimensions to determine what large pieces of furniture will realistically fit and be usable. Here's how to approach furniture and large item downsizing: Measure Everything: Measure your current large furniture (sofas, beds, dining tables, bookshelves) and compare these measurements with your new apartment's floor plan. Prioritize Multi-functional Pieces: In smaller spaces, items that serve multiple purposes (e.g., an ottoman with storage, a sofa bed, a dining table that can extend) are invaluable. Consider Selling or Donating: If a piece is too large, doesn't fit the aesthetic, or is simply not needed, consider selling it online or donating it to a furniture bank. Many charities offer free pickup services for large items. Family Heirlooms: For sentimental items that you can't keep, consider offering them to family members. Professional Disposal: For items that cannot be sold or donated, InNOut Movers can assist with the careful transport of items you are keeping, and provide guidance on removal services for items you are not. What Are the Best Strategies for Decluttering Clothes and Personal Items? The best strategies for decluttering clothes and personal items involve a focused, systematic approach, often using the "one year rule" or "KonMari method" to help make tough decisions. These items often hold sentimental value, making them particularly challenging to sort through. Here are effective strategies: The "One Year Rule" for Clothes: If you haven't worn an item of clothing in the past year, it's likely time to let it go. Exception: special occasion wear or seasonal items. Try On Everything (Optional but Effective): For clothes, trying on items can help you decide if they still fit and flatter you. Categorize by Item Type: Instead of by room, sort all your shirts, then all your pants, then all your shoes. This helps you see duplicates and make more informed decisions. Jewelry and Accessories: Be highly selective with jewelry, scarves, and bags. Keep only pieces you truly love and wear frequently. Books and Media: Embrace digital options. Consider donating or selling physical books, DVDs, and CDs you no longer read or watch. Many local libraries accept donations. Sentimental Items: Create a designated "memory box" for truly special keepsakes. Limit its size to force difficult but necessary choices. Take photos of items you can't keep but want to remember. How Can InNOut Movers Help with Your Downsizing Move? InNOut Movers can significantly ease the burden of your downsizing move by providing full services that cater specifically to the challenges of transitioning from a larger home to a smaller apartment. From professional packing services to efficient transport and even unpacking assistance, we handle the logistics so you can focus on settling into your new space. Here’s how InNOut Movers can assist: Expert Packing Services: Our team can expertly pack your chosen belongings, ensuring they are protected for transit. This is especially helpful when dealing with delicate or valuable items. Efficient Loading and Transport: We have the experience and equipment to safely load and transport your possessions, navigating tighter spaces and apartment complexes with ease. Furniture Disassembly/Reassembly: For larger items you are keeping, our movers can efficiently disassemble and reassemble furniture assembly services , saving you time and effort. Storage Solutions: If you find you have items you can't part with but don't have space for immediately, InNOut Movers offers secure, temporary storage solutions. Moving Supplies: We can provide high-quality moving boxes and packing materials tailored to your needs, simplifying your preparation process. Clear Communication: Our team will work with you to understand your specific downsizing needs, providing clear communication and a customized moving plan.

A Culinary Journey through Hutto, TX: Top 7 Restaurants You Must Try

By Darion Pugh • July 3, 2025
Crave great food? Explore Hutto, TX's top 7 restaurants! This guide takes you on a culinary journey to discover must-try dishes and local flavors.

Setting the Stage for a Bright Educational Journey in Hutto, TX

By Darion Pugh • July 3, 2025
Moving to a new area is a significant decision, and choosing the right school for your child is a crucial part of that. In Hutto, TX , a rapidly growing community within the heart of Texas, you’ll find a range of educational opportunities that can cater to your child's needs. Hutto, TX: A Growing Community Hutto, Texas, known for its family-friendly environment and community spirit, is an excellent place for raising a family. The town is located northeast of Austin and has seen significant growth over the past few years. Its expanding amenities and tight-knit community make it a prime location for new residents looking to settle down. Why Education Matters When Choosing a New Home When moving, considering the quality of local schools should be a top priority. Good schools contribute not only to your child’s academic success but also to their overall development, including extracurricular activities and social skills. They also impact property values, making them a critical component of a wise investment in a new home. Overview of the Education System in Texas Texas boasts a diverse and comprehensive education system, governed by the Texas Education Agency. Schools are rated based on various criteria, such as academic performance and graduation rates. Understanding the education system helps you make an informed decision when selecting the best school for your child.

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