How to Pack Your Car for a Move

The average American moves more than 11 times in their lifetime. Chances are you’ve moved before and are likely to move again! Whether you move to South Bend for a new job opportunity or to settle down with your family in Valparaiso, moving is an exciting and stressful experience. Below, we offer tips and tricks to make packing your car for the move easier.

Getting Started: Packing Supplies

Before you can begin packing, there are some essential supplies you’ll need:

Containers. Whether you prefer cardboard boxes or reusable totes, it’s essential to pack your items into sturdy containers rather than tossing them into spare space in the trunk.
Packing tape. Use strong packing tape to keep cardboard boxes shut and prevent items from falling out during the move.
Bubble wrap. It’s important not to over-fill your boxes. A box that’s too full is difficult to move. Use bubble wrap to fill any extra space to ensure your items don’t move around.
Vacuum-sealed bags. Vacuum bags are great for clothing and linens. These bags are very thin, making them perfect for spaces between boxes and bins.
Moving truck. You can fit a lot of boxes and bags in your car or truck, but a moving truck is essential for oversized items like furniture.
Professional movers. Leave the heavy lifting to professional movers trained to load heavy items, like furniture and appliances.

Pack Strategically for the Move

A lot of packing your car for a move takes place long before you put any items into your vehicle. Here, we outline strategies that will make packing your car much more manageable!

Pack early! Many folks put packing off because it can be stressful, but packing earlier is less stressful in the long run. In addition, packing earlier gives you time to donate and organize before the move. Most people pack a month or two in advance. Be sure only to pack up the items you don’t regularly use, though!
Start a donation pile. Moving is easier when there’s less to move! So make a donation pile for clothing and items you don’t often use.
Label your boxes. Labeling your boxes will make unloading so much easier. You’ll know right away where to take the boxes as you unload your vehicle, speeding up the process.
Pack by room. It’s much easier to pack (and unpack) room by room. Devote a few containers to each room so that you can group similar items. That means dry goods in one package, utensils in another and dishes in their own. Packing this way ensures minimal damage and makes unpacking faster.
Make an essentials box. A lot comes up when you move. Create a box or tote with screwdrivers, snacks, drinks, toilet paper and other essentials you’ll want easy access to while moving. Keep that box accessible by putting it in the front seat or on top of other boxes.
Pack your car by size. Put bigger boxes and bins into the trunk of your vehicle, and use the backseat and floor for smaller boxes. As the trunk fills up, you might be able to put smaller boxes on top, but always leave space to view out of your back windshield. Fill the space in between boxes with vacuum-sealed bags.

Start Moving Today

There’s a world of opportunity in the Midwest. Wherever you’re looking to move, Immediate Movers is here to help. Check out our mover’s guide to see what services are right for you. And when you’re ready, contact our team to schedule your move.