Packing for a house move is one of those tasks that always seems manageable until suddenly moving day is right around the corner and nothing is ready. One of the biggest questions homeowners ask is: how early should I actually start packing? The short answer is: earlier than you think.
Starting at the right time can make the difference between a calm, organised move and a stressful, last-minute scramble. Whether you’re moving across the street or to a new suburb, this guide will walk you through when to start packing, what to pack first, and how to stay on track—with insights from experienced house movers in Melbourne.
Why Timing Matters When Packing for a House Move
Packing isn’t just about putting items into boxes. It involves sorting, decluttering, protecting fragile belongings, and organising everything so unpacking is easier later. When packing is rushed, things often go wrong items break, important belongings get lost, and stress levels skyrocket.
Starting early gives you:
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More control over the process
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Time to declutter properly
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Better protection for valuables
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Less pressure in the final week
Professional house movers in Melbourne often say that poor packing is one of the biggest reasons moves become chaotic.
Ideal Packing Timeline for Moving House
Every move is different, but a general timeline can help you stay organised and reduce stress.
6–8 Weeks Before Moving: Start Planning and Decluttering
This is the perfect time to prepare for packing, even if you’re not filling boxes yet.
What to do during this stage:
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Go room by room and declutter
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Donate, sell, or discard items you no longer need
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Take inventory of furniture and large items
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Gather packing supplies (boxes, tape, labels)
Decluttering early means you’ll pack less, move less, and unpack less. Many professional house movers in Melbourne recommend this step to keep moving costs down and save time on moving day.
4–5 Weeks Before Moving: Pack Non-Essential Items
This is when packing should actually begin. Focus on items you don’t use daily.
Items to pack early:
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Seasonal clothing
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Books and décor
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Extra kitchenware
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Storage room items
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Guest room belongings
Label boxes clearly with both the room name and contents. This small step saves hours when unpacking.
If you’re unsure how to pack certain items safely, it’s a good idea to check professional packing and moving services offered by experienced movers.
3 Weeks Before Moving: Focus on Storage Areas
Storage areas are often the most time-consuming to pack because they tend to collect clutter.
Common problem areas:
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Garage
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Shed
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Attic
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Linen cupboards
Packing these areas early prevents panic later. It also allows you to identify bulky or heavy items that may require professional handling.
If packing feels overwhelming, get in touch with trusted house movers in Melbourne to discuss professional packing and moving options. A quick quote now can save you days of stress later.
2 Weeks Before Moving: Pack Most of the House
By this stage, around 70–80% of your home should be packed.
Focus on:
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Bedrooms (except essentials)
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Most of the kitchen
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Wall art and mirrors
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Electronics you don’t use daily
Keep essentials aside and clearly marked. Many people underestimate how long this stage takes, especially for larger homes.
Working with experienced house movers in Melbourne ensures that packed items are handled carefully and transported safely.
1 Week Before Moving: Pack Essentials and Final Items
This is the final stretch. Try not to leave everything for the last two days.
What to pack now:
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Everyday kitchen items (leave minimal sets)
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Bathroom supplies (keep a small essentials kit)
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Remaining clothing
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Children’s toys (keep favourites accessible)
Prepare an “open-first” box with essentials like chargers, toiletries, documents, and a change of clothes.
What Happens If You Start Packing Too Late?
Leaving packing until the last minute often leads to:
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Broken or damaged items
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Poorly labelled boxes
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Missed belongings
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Higher moving costs
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Unnecessary stress
Professional house movers in Melbourne frequently step in to fix rushed packing jobs, but starting early always leads to a smoother move.
Should You Pack Yourself or Hire Professionals?
This depends on your time, budget, and the size of your move.
DIY packing works best if:
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You’re moving a small home
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You have plenty of time
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Your belongings aren’t fragile or bulky
Professional packing is better if:
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You’re short on time
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You have valuable or fragile items
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You want a stress-free experience
Many moving companies offer flexible options, allowing you to pack some items yourself and leave the rest to professionals.
Tips to Make Packing Easier and More Efficient
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Pack one room at a time
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Label boxes clearly on multiple sides
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Keep screws and small parts in labelled bags
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Don’t overfill boxes—weight matters
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Photograph electronics setups before unplugging
Following these tips, along with a solid timeline, can make your move significantly easier.
How House Movers Can Help You Stay on Schedule
Experienced house movers in Melbourne don’t just move boxes—they help plan and execute the entire process. From packing advice to loading strategies, their experience ensures your belongings arrive safely and on time.
You can also explore professional house moving services to understand what’s included and how early booking can benefit you.
Final Thoughts
So, how early should you start packing for a house move? Ideally, six to eight weeks before moving day, with packing gradually increasing as the date approaches. Starting early gives you control, reduces stress, and protects your belongings.
A well-planned packing schedule, combined with professional support, can turn a stressful move into a smooth and organised experience.
Planning a move soon? Book reliable house movers in Melbourne today and get expert help with packing, moving, and everything in between. Request your free quote now and enjoy a stress-free house move from start to finish.