What is the number one rule of moving? Give yourself enough time to pack! This can be challenging because it can be easy to underestimate just how much time you’ll need. Below are some guidelines to help make planning your packing time a little easier.
How Long Will It Take to Pack Up My Home?
While a crew of professional movers can pack up a 1-bedroom apartment in as little as 2 hours, it’s smart to give yourself a LOT more time than that to avoid some significant stress. Here is an estimate of approximately how long it will take you to pack everything up based on your home’s size:
1 to 2 days for a studio or 1-bedroom apartment
2 to 3 days for a 2-bedroom home
3 to 5 days for a 3-bedroom home
4 to 6 days for a 4-bedroom home
5 to 7 days for a 5-bedroom home
Keep in mind: most people don’t have the stamina to pack all day long, and, realistically, you won’t be able to dedicate all of that time to packing because of everyday obligations (work, school, errands, etc.). When packing, always OVERESTIMATE the amount of time you think it will take.
Tips for Packing Faster and “Smarter”
There are few people we know outside of the moving business who actually enjoy packing. If you’re like most people, it’s a task you want done as quickly as possible, but you’d rather do almost anything else.
If you want to get packing over with ASAP, use these tips to speed up the process and make it a lot less overwhelming:
Keep your packing supplies (tape, boxes, Sharpies, etc.) in one place so you don’t waste time looking for them.
Focus on one room at a time so that you don’t get overwhelmed. (Pro tip: start with the kitchen.)
Clear out each room by going shelf by shelf, drawer by drawer.
Within each room, pack similar items together.
On the packages, write the room of your new home where those items will go.
You don’t need boxes for everything: use your suitcases for things like toiletries and large trash bags for towels, blankets, and bed linens.
Keep your clothes on their hangers, and simply wrap them up in a trash bag with the hanger hooks sticking out on top.
If you can’t fit in the time to pack between work and other obligations, many reputable moving companies offer packing services. This can save you a lot of time and stress in the midst of a major life change. Plus, you won’t have to worry about going out to buy packing supplies.
Hate packing? We can help.
At True Friends Moving Company, we proudly offer secure, professional packing services for homeowners, apartment dwellers, and even commercial property owners. Contact us online or give us a call at (615) 240-2811.