How to Pack Boxes for Moving Like a Pro
August 19, 2025
Packing can easily be the most stressful part of moving. If done poorly, it can lead to broken items, a disorganized move, and extra time spent on both ends of your transition. But with the right approach, packing boxes can be simple, efficient, and even satisfying. Here’s how to do it right:
1. Gather the Right Supplies
Before you pack a single item, make sure you have everything you need:
- Sturdy boxes in a variety of sizes
- Packing tape and a tape dispenser
- Bubble wrap and or clean white packing paper (we don’t recommend using old newspapers, since the ink makes dirty dishes and creates more work for you)
- Markers for labeling
- Scissors and a box cutter
We don’t stock or sell packing materials, so we’ve done the homework for you! Here are links to everything you need to pack like a pro!
- Packing tape: https://amzn.to/3V3rWF5
- XX large linen cartons https://amzn.to/4m8imMJ
- Mirror Packs https://amzn.to/40sSanG
- Bubble wrap https://amzn.to/46QW9hI
- 4 Pack Bubble wrap https://amzn.to/4lwXSgK
- Moving bags (great for college dorm moves, reusable, easy to store! https://amzn.to/453lC5d
- Dish packs https://amzn.to/451AGjH
- Medium and small box assortment https://amzn.to/3GV5RoQ
- Letter-sized banker boxes (great for files) https://amzn.to/44XSbRS
- Legal-sized banker boxes (great for files) https://amzn.to/44FjSA9
- Book boxes https://amzn.to/4eYVk8F
- Box cutter https://amzn.to/44VUiWh
- Sharpie (to label boxes) https://amzn.to/3GCT8XU
- Preprinted color-coded labels https://amzn.to/4luUsKA
- Ziplock bags to keep wires and small hardware together https://amzn.to/44ZeO8L
- Mattress Bags K/Q to keep your mattress protected https://amzn.to/4oBMMsZ
- Mattress Bags T/F to keep your mattress protected https://amzn.to/4mp8sqG
Tip: Don’t over-rely on old boxes from grocery stores—they often aren’t strong enough for moving and typically aren't very clean and may contain insects you don’t typically want to invite into your home.
2. Pack by Room
Stay organized by packing one room at a time. This method:
- Helps you stay focused.
- Makes unpacking much easier.
- Ensures nothing gets misplaced or mixed up.
Label each box with both the room name and a brief list of contents (e.g., Kitchen – Dishes and Glassware).
3. Use the Right Size Boxes
- Heavy items (like books) should go in small boxes.
- Light items (like pillows or bedding) can go in large boxes.
- This keeps boxes from becoming too heavy to lift—and from falling apart.
4. Protect Fragile Items
- Wrap fragile items individually in bubble wrap or packing paper.
- Be sure to pad the bottoms of the boxes when packing dishes with a good layer of crumpled-up paper to provide a nice cushion or use a good layer of bubble wrap.
- Fill any empty spaces with crumpled paper, pillows, or towels to prevent shifting.
- Mark boxes with "FRAGILE" clearly on multiple sides for glassware, dishes, electronics or decor.
For dishes/plates, (as well as stemware) pack them vertically like records—they’re stronger on their edges!
5. Distribute Weight Evenly
When packing:
- Put heavier items at the bottom of the box.
- Layer lighter items on top.
- Keep the overall weight manageable so boxes aren’t too heavy to move safely.
6. Seal Boxes Properly
Always tape the bottom seam of the box first using the "H" method—one strip along the seam and two strips crossing the edges—to reinforce it. Then, securely tape the top shut once packed.
7. Create an Essentials Box
Pack one box with things you’ll need immediately after the move:
- Toiletries
- Chargers
- Basic kitchen supplies
- A few days’ clothes
- Important documents
Label it “OPEN FIRST” and keep it with you during the move.
Final Thoughts
Taking the time to pack carefully can save you hours (and a lot of frustration) later. By using the right materials, staying organized, and protecting your belongings properly, you'll be setting yourself up for a smooth move—and a much easier unpacking process. Have a question about what to do or how to pack a certain item? Contact RL Davis Movers! We are available to answer your questions.
At RL Davis Movers, we’ve seen it all from joyful first-home excitement, college drop-offs, new baby moves, downsizing after loss, and everything in between. But no matter the reason, every move comes with a mix of emotions. And no one talks about the hardest part: the tears, the tape, the goodbyes.
At RL Davis Movers , we often receive the question, "Do you handle small moves, too, or just big ones?" The answer is simple… Yes, we do small moves too! What Is a Small Move? A “small move” might mean: Moving a few pieces of furniture across town Helping a college student move into or out of a dorm Downsizing from a house to an apartment or senior living Relocating within the same building or neighborhood No job is too small for our team, whether it’s one room or a whole house. Why Choose Us for Your Small Move? Small moves still require care, professionalism, proper equipment, licensing, and insurance, and that’s where we shine. Here's what sets us apart: Local Expertise : We know the streets and shortcuts across Warwick, RI, and surrounding areas. Flexible Scheduling : Quick jobs? Last-minute needs? We’ve got your back. Fair Pricing : We offer competitive, transparent rates without hidden fees. Experienced Crew : Our friendly team treats every move… big or small… with the same care and respect. Fully Licensed and Insured: Ensuring complete peace of mind for all our valued customers. We are committed to adherence to all regulatory requirements, guaranteeing the highest level of service and protection. Ideal for Life’s Little Transitions Small moves often happen during big life moments: 🎓 College moves 🏡 First apartments 💼 Job relocations 👵 Downsizing for retirement We’re proud to support our customers during these important changes. Ready to Make Your Small Move Simple? Let RL Davis Movers take the stress out of your small move. Give us a call or email us to request a free estimate today… No job is too small when it matters to you. 📍 Serving Warwick, RI, and surrounding areas 📞 401-463-0006 🌐 www.RLDavisMovers.com 📧 info@RLDavisMovers.com
While RL Davis Movers isn't our first venture in the moving industry, it's the culmination of over 30 years of hard work, dedication, and valuable lessons learned from owning and operating our previous moving company in Cranston, RI (Economy Movers & Storage, Inc.). Although we're no longer affiliated with that business, the experience and reputation we built there have significantly shaped how we run RL Davis Movers today. During our time with our former company, we had the privilege of working with thousands of families and businesses across Rhode Island. We discovered what it truly takes to deliver a stress-free move: clear communication, meticulous planning, reliable crews, and a steadfast commitment to treating each customer's belongings as if they were our own. This foundation is what drives everything we do here today at RL Davis Movers. When we took over RL Davis Movers, our primary goal was simple: to re-establish a trusted moving company that always prioritizes our customers. From the initial phone call to the very last box unloaded, we are dedicated to making your move smooth, efficient, and entirely worry-free. If you've worked with us in the past, welcome to our new chapter here at RL Davis Movers. If we're just meeting for the first time, we're eager to show you what we're all about. Let our experience move you. Bob & Cheryl Nystrom
Thinking about making a move this summer? You’re not alone. Warwick, RI comes alive during the warmer months, and if you're relocating locally or moving into the area, summer is the best time to make it happen. At RL Davis Movers , we're proud to be a Warwick-based moving company. We know the neighborhoods, the streets, and the best times to move, because we live and work right here in the community. Whether you're heading to a home near Oakland Beach , downsizing in Apponaug , or relocating your business closer to TF Green Airport , we’re here to help make your summer move smooth and stress-free.
Need a Pit Stop? Yes, We Can Move You to Self-Storage!
Your step-by-step guide to a smooth and stress-free move!
Moving can feel like a monumental task, especially when you're not just changing neighborhoods, but entire states! Amidst the flurry of packing, planning, and paperwork, one crucial question often pops up: "Do they even service long-distance moves?" Well, let us put your mind completely at ease. The answer is a resounding YES! At RL Davis Movers, we're not just about helping you around the corner; we're your trusted partners for seamless and stress-free long-distance relocations. Whether you're heading across state lines or chasing a dream job a hundred miles away, we've got you covered.
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