Packing a 3-bedroom house takes 15–25 hours when done properly. Start 4–6 weeks before your move with non-essentials. Use small boxes for heavy items (books, dishes) and large boxes for light items (bedding, pillows). Label every box with contents and destination room on 3 sides. Here is the room-by-room professional guide.
What materials do I need?
| Material | Quantity (3BR) | Use | | --- | --- | --- | | Small boxes | 25–35 | Books, dishes, heavy items | | Medium boxes | 30–40 | Kitchenware, decor | | Large boxes | 15–25 | Bedding, pillows, lamps | | Wardrobe boxes | 4–6 | Hanging clothes | | Packing paper | 10+ lbs | Wrapping fragiles | | Bubble wrap, tape, markers | As needed | Protection and labeling |
Estimate your overall move with the moving cost calculator, and packing yourself can save $500–$1,500 per our budget moving guide.
What is the box-size rule?
Heavy items go in small boxes; light items in large boxes. A large box full of books becomes unliftable and risks breaking. Keep each box under 50 lbs.
How do I pack the kitchen?
The kitchen is the most complex room. Use dish-pack boxes with dividers, wrap each plate in paper and pack vertically, and box glasses individually. Pad pots and seal liquids in plastic bags. For food, see our what to do with food when moving guide.
How do I pack electronics?
Photograph cable connections, use original boxes when possible, and pack monitors and TVs vertically in padded or double-walled boxes. Details are in our home office moving guide.
What is the room-by-room order?
- Storage, garage, and attic (non-essentials first)
- Guest rooms and formal spaces
- Living room and decor
- Bedrooms (use wardrobe boxes)
- Kitchen
- Essentials box, packed last
How do I label boxes the professional way?
Mark contents and destination room on three sides plus the top, and flag fragile boxes clearly. This speeds unloading and reduces breakage. Pair this with our 8-week moving checklist.
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