Packing is often the most underestimated part of moving house. It sounds simple at first, but once cupboards are opened and boxes start stacking up, the task can quickly feel overwhelming. Without a clear approach, packing can stretch on for weeks and disrupt daily life right before moving day.

This comprehensive packing guide breaks the process into manageable stages and shares proven advice used by professional Brisbane removalists. With the right preparation, packing becomes far more efficient and moving day far less stressful.

Begin With a Clear Packing Strategy

Successful packing does not start with boxes. It starts with planning. A structured approach allows you to spread the workload evenly and avoid rushed decisions close to moving day.

Set Realistic Timeframes

Packing almost always takes longer than people expect, especially in family homes or properties with garages, sheds, or storage areas. Many households begin preparing a month or more before moving, with active packing starting around two to three weeks out.

How early you begin depends on how much you own, how many people are involved, and whether you are packing alone or with assistance. Being honest about these factors helps you plan sensibly and prevents packing from taking over everyday life.

Declutter Before Anything Goes in a Box

Sorting belongings before packing is one of the most effective ways to simplify a move. Fewer items mean fewer boxes, lower transport costs, and less to unpack later.

Work through the house one room at a time and sort items into clear categories such as keep, donate, sell, or discard. Only pack what you genuinely want in your new home. This step alone can significantly reduce time, effort, and stress, particularly if you’re moving long distance from Brisbane to Melbourne.

Use Packing Materials That Do the Job Properly

The right supplies make packing safer, faster, and more organised.

Choose Strong Boxes and Quality Materials

Purpose-made moving boxes are far more reliable than recycled supermarket cartons, which are prone to tearing or collapsing. Use a mix of box sizes so heavy items go into smaller boxes and lighter items into larger ones.

Essential supplies include packing tape, permanent markers, packing paper, bubble wrap, and zip-lock bags for screws and small parts. Having everything ready before you start avoids unnecessary delays.

Know When to Use Bubble Wrap or Paper

Packing paper is ideal for wrapping plates, glassware, and everyday fragile items because it is compact and easy to layer. Bubble wrap is better suited to heavier or more delicate items such as electronics, artwork, and appliances where extra impact protection is needed. Use each material thoughtfully to avoid excess bulk.

Pack Methodically, One Room at a Time

One of the most effective packing techniques is to focus on one room at a time and keep items from different rooms separate. This reduces confusion and makes unpacking much easier.

Clearly label every box with the destination room, a brief description of contents, and whether the box is heavy or fragile. Marking both the top and sides makes identification quick and easy.

This system helps removalists place boxes correctly and saves you time when settling into your new home.

Room-by-Room Packing Tips

Different areas of the home benefit from slightly different packing approaches.

Bedrooms

Start with items you use least, such as seasonal clothing, spare bedding, and accessories. Wardrobe boxes are ideal for hanging clothes, while drawers can often remain packed if they are not too heavy.

Jewellery, documents, and personal valuables should be packed separately and kept with you. This is standard practice recommended by removalists for items that are irreplaceable.

Children’s rooms are best packed later and unpacked first at the new house. Keep familiar items like favourite toys and bedding accessible to help children and pets settle more easily, especially if they are required to move across the border, from Melbourne to Brisbane.

Living Areas

Wrap televisions, mirrors, and artwork with blankets or bubble wrap and secure them firmly. Keep remotes, cables, and accessories together in labelled bags or boxes.

Books, games, and media items should be packed into smaller boxes to prevent them becoming too heavy to lift safely.

The Kitchen

Kitchens are usually packed toward the end of the process. Wrap dishes individually, stand plates vertically, and use paper or tea towels to fill gaps. Glasses pack best in sectioned boxes.

Go through pantry and freezer items early so you can use, donate, or discard food instead of packing unnecessary supplies.

Bathrooms

Bathrooms are typically packed in the final days. Keep daily toiletries accessible and pack them separately for each household member. Secure liquids carefully to prevent leaks.

Garages and Sheds

Garages and sheds often contain more items than expected. Pack tools securely, drain fuel from equipment, and dispose of hazardous materials correctly.

Group bulky or awkward items together and label them clearly so removalists know where they belong at the new property.

Protect Fragile and High-Value Items

Extra care during packing greatly reduces the risk of damage.

Glassware and Delicate Items

Cushion the base of boxes, wrap each item individually, and fill empty spaces so nothing moves during transport. Clearly label fragile boxes on multiple sides.

Electronics

If original packaging is unavailable, wrap devices in bubble wrap and pack them tightly. Keep cords with their corresponding items and back up important data before moving.

Taking photos of cable setups before unplugging can make reconnecting much easier later.

Artwork and Sentimental Belongings

Artwork and sentimental items deserve extra time and attention. Use corner protectors, bubble wrap, and sturdy boxes, and avoid rushing this stage.

Keep Important Items With You

Documents, medications, jewellery, cash, and personal electronics should travel with you rather than on the truck. Removalists consistently recommend this as best practice to ensure these items remain safe and accessible.

Prepare an Essentials Box for Arrival

An essentials box makes the first night in your new home far more comfortable. Include items such as:

• Toiletries
• Medications
• Snacks
• Phone chargers
• Basic tools
• Bedding
• Cleaning supplies

Label this box clearly and load it last so it is easy to access.

When Professional Packing Help Makes Sense

Packing does not need to be done alone. Larger homes, tight deadlines, or busy schedules can make professional packing services a practical option.

Professional removalists work efficiently, use the correct materials, and know how to protect belongings properly. Their support can significantly reduce workload and help ensure moving day runs to schedule.

Pack With Purpose for an Easier Move

Packing becomes far more manageable when it is approached in clear stages. Planning early, decluttering thoroughly, using quality materials, and labelling carefully all contribute to a smoother move.

When each step is handled thoughtfully, packing supports an organised moving day and makes settling into your new home far easier.