Packing for a move can be a daunting task, especially when time is not on your side. If you find yourself in a situation where you need to pack up your entire life in just three days, don’t panic! With a bit of planning and a lot of efficiency, you can tackle this challenge head-on. In this guide, I’ll walk you through a step-by-step process to make your last-minute move as smooth as possible.
Day 1: Planning and Gathering Supplies
The first step in any successful move is planning. We recommend starting by making a list of all the rooms and areas you need to pack. The goal of this list is to help you prioritize and manage your time effectively to ensure you can get it all done in the short timeframe you have. Next you’ll want to make sure you have all the necessary packing supplies, like boxes, tape, markers, and bubble wrap on hand. This prep will save you from running errands in the midst of packing, which we all want to avoid if possible.
Purging unnecessary items is an often overlooked part of the planning phase. If you can, use this opportunity to donate or sell belongings that you no longer need, as this will help minimize the amount packing that you’ll need to do. Platforms like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace or local charities are easy and quick ways to offload some of your unwanted items.
Remember that the key to efficient packing is having a solid game plan. After identifying what stays and what goes, it’s time to tackle the logistics. Take a minute to create a moving timeline that will help you stay on track. Don’t forget that you’ll need some essentials for the final day, so we recommend preparing a separate box or bag to keep these items easily accessible. Proper organization on day one sets the foundation for a smooth move.
Day 2: Packing Non-Essential Items
Make sure to get a good nights’ rest after day one as energy is key for day two. This will be the most laborious part of the move: packing. Start with the easy non-essential items like off-season clothes, holiday decorations, books, etc. Items stored in attics or garages also usually fall into this category. You can also use any leftover boxes previous purchases to help pack things in. Nearby stores may also have free packing materials if you’re in a pinch too.
As you pack, we recommend putting a label on each box with its contents and designated room. This will help you have an easier time unpacking and will minimize chaos upon arrival. Bonus points if you want to use coloured markers or adhesive labels to help easily distinguish between rooms visually. This system could also be helpful to any movers helping you who to easily place boxes in their respective spaces.
Make your life easier by thinking through where you’re putting the packed boxes so that you don’t create extra obstacles within your living space. We find that stacking them against walls is a good approach to clearing a path for easy access to essential areas. While packing, you can also think about grouping similar items together to make the transition into your new home a bit easier.
Day 3: Packing Essential Items and Last-Minute Tips
Day three, (home stretch!) demands a bit more focus as you pack the last of your belongings, predominantly essentials like toiletries, kitchen necessities, and charging devices. These will likely be the first items you’ll want to access after setting up in your new home. We recommend packing an overnight bag with a change of clothes and toiletries to make your life easier when you arrive at your new home (especially helpful if you arrive late in the day and don’t have the energy to unpack immediately).
Once the essential items are packed up at your old place, it’s time to clean the space you’re leaving behind. Make sure to sweep or vacuum all floors and surfaces are wiped down. You could also consider hiring professional cleaners to take the mental load off of yourself. Leaving behind a clean space will reflect positively on you, and might also help satisfy landlord agreements and expedite deposit returns.
Finally, confirm arrangements with the moving company or friends assisting. Double-check that all utilities in your current home have been scheduled to be shut off or transferred. Make sure all tasks have been completed with a final walkthrough of the space. Don’t forget to check that keys, fobs, and remote controls are left as arranged, and that any pending mail is redirected to your new address.
Wrapping Up: Making Your Move a Success
Packing in just three days might seem overwhelming, but with a clear approach and mindset, it’s entirely achievable. By following this three-day plan, you can stay organized and calm, turning what could typically be a chaotic process into a manageable one. Remember, the key is to stay focused, avoid procrastination, and pack smart. Good luck with your move! For more advice on easing your moving day stress, visit Great Canadian Van Lines.
