10 Essential Packing Tips for a Hassle-Free Move

1. Start early, one room at a time

Begin with rooms you use least — store rooms, lofts and guest bedrooms — and finish with the kitchen and bedrooms. Packing one room at a time keeps cartons organised.

2. Declutter before you pack

Every item you don't move is money saved. Sell, donate or recycle anything you haven't used in the last year.

3. Use the right boxes

Heavy items like books go in small cartons; light, bulky items like pillows go in large ones. A box should always be light enough for one person to carry.

4. Label every carton

Write the room name and a short list of contents on at least two sides. Mark fragile boxes clearly and note 'This side up'.

5. Wrap fragile items individually

Plates are packed on their edge, glasses wrapped separately, and gaps filled with paper so nothing moves.

6. Pack an essentials bag

Keep medicines, documents, chargers, a change of clothes and basic toiletries in a bag that travels with you.

7. Photograph your electronics

Take a photo of the cables behind your TV and computer before disconnecting so reconnecting is easy.

8. Keep hardware together

Put screws and bolts from dismantled furniture in labelled zip bags and tape them to the furniture.

9. Defrost the fridge a day early

Empty and defrost your fridge 24 hours before moving so it's dry and odour-free.

10. Let professionals handle the difficult items

Glass tables, large TVs, idols, antiques and pianos are best packed by trained packers with proper material.