Think about other ways you can organize your move, too. For example, you might use white trash bags for items you want to take with you, and black bags for garbage. That way, you won’t accidentally throw away something you need—or accidentally bring trash to your new place.

For instance, trash bags are great for packing clothes in a hurry—just slide the bag over the clothes and wrap the handles around the hanger hooks. If the clothes are folded, just pile them in the bags! Sandwich bags are excellent for packing smaller items like jewelry, screws, makeup, and more. Pack clothes, books, and other smaller items in suitcases and duffle bags. If you don’t have packing materials like bubble wrap or newspapers, use things like towels and blankets for wrapping breakable items.

This is typically more efficient than moving your boxes, tape, and packing materials from room to room. If you find that going back and forth takes too long, you can put all of your packing materials in one box, then move that box and your packing boxes to each room as you pack it.

You can also rent a transportable storage unit, which will give you the opportunity to pack at your own pace. The company will then move the pod to your new home when you’re ready. If you can’t take all of your belongings with you, rent a storage unit where you can store your things. It might help your move go faster if you rent a cart or dolly from a moving company so you can easily move large furniture and stacks of boxes.

For instance, you might ask one person to help you pack your dishes, while someone else could help you pack up your bedroom.

For instance, you might start by packing your living area, then your kitchen, then your bedroom, and finally your bathroom. Pack similar items together. For example, pack first aid and medical supplies together in one box, and make sure to put all of your utensils in another box. [7] X Research source This will also make it easier to unpack, since everything that goes in the same vicinity will already be grouped together.

Keep extra bags or boxes on hand for things you find that you want to donate, trash, or sell while you’re packing. Sell your furniture and large appliances, if possible. You won’t have to worry about moving it, and you can use the money to buy new things once you get to your new home. Remember, you can keep sorting through your items once you get into your new place, so don’t stress too much if you need to just pack everything up and go.

You might also include things like paper plates, plastic forks, toilet paper, cleaning supplies, dish towels, and a simple tool kit in case you need to assemble anything when you get to your new place. [10] X Research source

Don’t leave open space in boxes containing fragile items. If the box shifts during the moves, the fragile objects could bump into each other and break.

In addition, when you’re packing hanging clothes, it’s easiest if you just leave them on the hangers! Either place them flat in the back of your vehicle, put them in garbage bags with the hangers sticking out, or stack them in wardrobe boxes.

Be sure to write “Fragile” on boxes containing breakable items. However, those boxes should still be packed protectively to avoid any accidental breaks.

It’s a good idea to unpack the same way you packed—going one room at a time. Try starting with your bedroom so you’ll have a cozy place to sleep while you get the rest of your place set up!