When should I start packing to move?

The easy answer is “the sooner the better,” although sometimes it’s difficult to determine when the right time is. If you have an extraordinarily large number of belongings, it may make sense to pack far in advance of your move. Otherwise, no packing should start until you have a definite moving date.

Once you have an exact date, you can begin to segregate your belongings into three categories:

1. Non-essentials: items like artwork, posters, books, seasonal clothing, and home décor should be packed well in advance.
2. Moderate essentials: Electronics like computers, TVs, DVD players, and movies that you do not need to use on a daily basis (but still like to) should be packed within a few days of your move.
3. Essentials: Essentials include food, dishes, utensils, clothing, bedding, and toiletries. These should be the last things to get packed.

Packing your belongings can be an involved process. It’s always recommended to start well ahead of time when possible. For all the necessary supplies like boxes, packing tape and bubble wrap, visit an office supply store near you.