Top 15 Moving Tips to Save Time, Stress, and Boxes

31 July 2025 4 Min read
Renting Right

Smarter Moves, Happier Settling In

Whether you’re heading to your first apartment, upsizing with family, or making a cross-town move, the process can feel overwhelming. But with the right prep, packing, and mindset, moving doesn’t have to be so stressful.

We’ve pulled together our top 15 moving tips to keep your move efficient, organized, and yes, even a little enjoyable.

1. Declutter Before You Pack

Take this opportunity to lighten your load. Donate, recycle, or toss anything you haven’t used in the past year. The fewer items you move, the faster and cheaper the process becomes.

2. Stock Up on the Right Supplies

Boxes are only the beginning. You’ll also want heavy-duty tape, labels, markers, and packing paper. Towels work too. Here are a few budget-friendly essentials under $25[1]  that make packing easier, like laundry baskets, caddies, and tool kits.

3. Color Code by Room

Use colored tape, markers, or labels for each room. Blue for the kitchen, green for the bedroom, and so on. It makes unloading and unpacking a breeze, especially if friends or movers are helping.

4. Pack a First Night Bag

Include essentials like toiletries, medication, chargers, snacks, and one change of clothes. Treat it like an overnight trip. You’ll thank yourself after a long day of hauling boxes.

5. Keep Cleaning Supplies Handy

From wiping down dusty shelves to scrubbing sinks, you’ll need them on both ends of the move. Things like Mrs. Meyer’s Dish Soap or Scrub Daddy sponges are the best for move-in day messes.

6. Label What Matters Most

Clearly mark boxes with high-priority items like “Open First” or “Fragile Kitchen.” Use arrows to show which side is up to avoid accidents during transit.

7. Don’t Empty Drawers, Wrap Them

Keep items inside dressers or storage bins if possible. Secure with stretch wrap so nothing falls out and move everything in one piece.

8. Take Photos of Electronics Before Unplugging

Snap pics of your TV, Wi-Fi router, or gaming setup before disconnecting. When it’s time to reconnect, you’ll have a visual wiring guide.

9. Use What You Already Own

Suitcases, laundry baskets, tote bags, and storage bins are perfect for packing. Why buy more boxes when you can make what you have work?

10. Protect Floors and Corners

Use rugs, old towels, or leftover cardboard to protect high-traffic areas in both your old and new home. You’ll avoid scuffs and potential security deposit deductions.

11. Create a “Do Not Pack” Zone

Set aside a space or bin for items you’ll need day of. Think wallet, lease papers, cleaning supplies, and keys. That way, they won’t accidentally get taped into a box.

12. Label Cords and Remotes

It’s easy to lose track of which cord goes with what. Use bread tags, washi tape, or masking tape to label each plug.

13. Take Advantage of Vertical Space

Maximize your box space by stacking lighter items on top of heavier ones. Store things like rolled-up towels or pillows upright to fill space efficiently.

14. Plan for Pets and Kids Ahead of Time

If possible, arrange a sitter or create a safe zone away from the chaos. Moving is overwhelming. Give your furry friends and little ones a calm corner.

15. Schedule Utility Transfers Early

Internet, electricity, and water should all be scheduled in advance. Nothing puts a damper on move-in day like a dark, disconnected apartment.

Moving can feel like a lot, but with smart prep and the right tools, it’s also a fresh start.

Explore affordable moving day helpers, laundry must-haves, and household essentials all in one spot. Because settling into your new space should feel like home from day one.

Browse CSC Marketplace and make your move smoother today.