What should I pack myself before movers come?
While professional movers can handle most of your belongings, certain items require personal attention due to their value, sensitivity, or legal restrictions. Knowing what to pack yourself ensures these important items receive proper care and remain accessible when needed.
Valuable and Irreplaceable Items Pack jewelry, family heirlooms, important collections, and sentimental items yourself. These items often have value beyond their monetary worth and require special care. Use appropriate packaging materials and consider keeping these items with you during transport rather than putting them in the moving truck.
Important Documents and Records Organize all critical paperwork including passports, birth certificates, medical records, insurance policies, financial documents, and legal papers. Keep these in a waterproof, portable file that travels with you. Make copies of essential documents and store them separately as backup.
Electronics and Technology Pack computers, tablets, phones, and other sensitive electronics yourself to ensure proper handling. Back up all important data before packing. Keep original boxes if available, as they provide the best protection. Remove batteries from devices and pack chargers and cables in clearly labeled bags.
Medications and Medical Supplies Pack all prescription medications, medical devices, and first-aid supplies separately. Keep medications in their original containers with clear labels. Ensure you have enough supply to last through the moving period and initial settling time in your new home.
Personal Care and Immediate Necessities Prepare a suitcase with clothing, toiletries, and personal items for several days. Include items you’ll need immediately upon arrival before you can unpack properly. This prevents the stress of searching through boxes for basic necessities on your first night in your new home.
Hazardous and Restricted Materials Many moving companies won’t transport flammable liquids, chemicals, perishable food, plants, or hazardous materials. Pack these items yourself for transport in your personal vehicle or arrange for proper disposal. Check with your moving company for their specific list of restricted items.
High-Value Specialty Items Artwork, antiques, wine collections, and other valuable specialty items often require custom packing and handling. If you’re experienced with proper packing techniques, you may choose to handle these yourself. Otherwise, consider hiring specialists or ensuring your movers have experience with these types of items.