How Long Does It Take to Pack for a Move?

Packing for a move can feel like a big task. But knowing how much time you’ll need makes things a lot easier. This guide will help you determine how long it might take and provide simple steps to pack everything up.

What Affects Packing Time?

A few things decide how long packing will take:

• Home Size: Bigger homes take longer to pack.
• How Much Stuff You Own: The more things you have, the more time you’ll need.
• Decluttering: If you want to get rid of stuff as you pack, you’ll need extra time.
• Helpers: Packing goes faster if friends, family, or pros lend a hand.
• Your Free Time: If you only have time after work or on weekends, it will take longer.

How Long Will It Take Me to Pack?

Here’s an easy guide to help you guess the time:

• Studio or 1-bedroom: 10–20 hours
• 2-bedroom home: 20–40 hours
• 3-bedroom home: 40–60 hours
• 4-bedroom home: 60–80 hours
• 5+ bedrooms: 80–100+ hours

If you plan to sort through and donate things, add more time.

A Simple Way to Estimate Your Packing Time

1. Count each bedroom and allow approximately 10 hours per room.
2. Add 10 hours total for packing up the kitchen and living room.
3. Add extra hours (3–5 per room) if there’s clutter or you need to clean out storage, basements, attics, or garages.

Example:

Packing time for packing a three-bedroom home with a messy basement could take:

• 3 bedrooms x 10 hours = 30 hours
• Kitchen and living room = 10 hours
• Messy basement = 3 hours
• Total: about 43 hours

What Should I Prepare Before I Begin?

Gather these supplies before you begin:

• Strong, assorted boxes
• Packing tape
• Markers (to write what’s in each box)
• Bubble wrap or newspaper
• Zip-top bags for little things
• Furniture covers or old sheets

Declutter first! Go through each room and decide what to keep, donate, or throw away. This will reduce the amount you need to pack.

Easy Packing Strategies for Everyone

Pack One Room at a Time

• Start in rooms you don’t use much.
• Pack things you won’t need before moving day.
• Label each box with its contents and the corresponding room.
• Place fragile items in special boxes and label them.

Pack Non-Essential Items First

• Holiday decorations
• Off-season clothes
• Books and games you don’t plan to use soon

Packing Timeline for a Smooth Move

One Month Before Moving

• Start decluttering.
• Pack up things you hardly use.

Two Weeks Before Moving

• Begin packing guest rooms, closets, and the dining room.
• Double-check moving trucks and helpers.

One Week Before Moving

• Pack everyday items last.
• Keep a small suitcase or box with essentials, such as pajamas, toiletries, and a few dishes.

Quick Tips to Make Packing Easier

• Use large boxes for light items and small boxes for heavy items.
• Leave clothes on hangers and cover them with a garbage bag.
• Create a “first-night” box to have everything you need at hand without having to dig through everything.

Should I Hire Professional Packers?

Hiring professionals can save time—especially if you need to move in a hurry or have a lot of breakable items. Full-service packers can usually handle a whole home in a day. You can also hire them just for tricky tasks, such as packing the kitchen or wrapping up a piano.

How Long Does Unpacking Take?

Unpacking usually goes faster than packing but still takes time. Some people finish in one day; others prefer to spread it out over a week or two. Set up your kitchen and bedrooms first, so you have a place to eat and sleep.

Frequently Asked Questions

Packing can seem overwhelming, but with these easy steps, you’ll be ready to move without feeling stressed. Start early, stay organized, and enjoy your new home!