Your Expert Guide to Stress-Free Packing from Movers Long Beach
If you’ve ever found yourself surrounded by a sea of boxes, wondering how you accumulated this much stuff, you’re not alone. Packing is the most time-consuming part of moving — and the part people get wrong most often.
That’s why Movers Long Beach is here to spill the secrets. This isn’t your basic “label your boxes” list. These are real-life packing hacks from actual movers who do this day in, day out — in apartments, condos, houses, and even beachside bungalows.
Whether you’re packing yourself or just want to understand the process better, this guide is designed to save time, save space, and save your sanity.
Where Do You Start When Packing for a Move?
Step one: Don’t start with your boxes. Start with your brain.
Before packing a single item, take 15–30 minutes to:
- Walk through your space
- Identify items you don’t use, don’t want, or forgot you owned
- Make three piles: donate, toss, keep
- Create a packing plan: room by room or category by category
You’ll pack 25% faster if you start by getting rid of what doesn’t need to come with you.
What Packing Supplies Do You Actually Need?
You don’t need to drop hundreds at a big-box store. You do need:
- Sturdy, stackable moving boxes (avoid grocery store freebies — they collapse)
- Packing paper or bubble wrap (newspaper works but leaves ink)
- Stretch wrap and tape
- Labels or markers
- Plastic zip bags for screws, cords, and hardware
- Trash bags (more on this later — they’re versatile!)
- Wardrobe boxes – we bring these for free with your move
Pro tip: Movers Long Beach provides tools, pads, shrink wrap, and wardrobe boxes as part of your move — no extra charge.
How Do You Pack Faster?
Let’s be blunt: you don’t need to be a minimalist to pack like one.
Try These Time-Saving Hacks:
🕒 Set a timer. Work in focused 45-minute blocks. Take short breaks in between.
📦 Pack by zone. Start with low-use areas like guest rooms or seasonal closets.
🎵 Make it fun. Music, podcasts, or a “one-box-per-song” game makes it bearable.
📅 Pack a little each day. Start early, even if it’s just one drawer at a time.
Bonus: Packing early = better inventory = better quote from your movers.
What Are the Best Space-Saving Packing Tips?
Some of these will actually blow your mind:
📚 Use what you already own:
- Wrap glasses in socks or T-shirts
- Use laundry baskets and suitcases for storage
- Pack jewelry in egg cartons or pill organizers
- Line boxes with towels instead of bubble wrap
🧳 Suitcase Strategy:
- Use rolling suitcases for books and heavy items
- Put your “first night essentials” in a carry-on-style bag
🚫 Avoid Half-Full Boxes:
You’re wasting space — and risking breakage. Use small boxes for heavy items, large ones for light stuff. Always fill gaps with padding.
How Do You Label Like a Pro?
Your future self will thank you.
Label Each Box With:
- Room it belongs to
- Contents summary (not just “stuff”)
- FRAGILE if it matters
- This Side Up if it matters more
Bonus hack: Use color-coded tape or stickers by room. It saves time during unloading.
What Should You Never Pack?
There are items movers can’t legally or safely transport.
🚫 Do NOT pack:
- Flammable items (aerosol cans, paint, propane)
- Open liquids or cleaning supplies
- Important documents (keep them with you)
- Valuables like cash, jewelry, hard drives
- Perishable food (unless it’s a short, same-day move)
Ask Movers Long Beach for a full non-allowables list before packing day.
How to Pack Fragile Items Without Stress
This is where most DIY movers panic — but it’s easier than you think.
🥂 Glassware & Dishes:
- Use dish packs or double-box for extra protection
- Wrap each item separately in packing paper
- Stack plates vertically like records (less pressure = less breakage)
- Fill empty spaces with paper, towels, or foam
💻 Electronics:
- Take photos of cord setups before unplugging
- Use original boxes if possible
- Label cords, remotes, and parts clearly
- Pack screens vertically with padding on both sides
And yes — we can help pack your electronics and kitchen if you choose our Partial or Full Pack services.
Trash Bag Trick: Genius or Dangerous?
It’s a little of both.
How to use them safely:
- Wrap hanging clothes in trash bags to transport quickly
- Use heavy-duty bags for pillows, linens, and plush toys
- NEVER use them for fragile or sharp items
- Label clearly — or you’ll risk tossing something important
We prefer wardrobe boxes (which we bring for free), but the trash bag trick is great for quick, soft loads.
What’s the Best Way to Pack for a Beach City Like Long Beach?
Humidity, salt air, and sand come into play — especially if you’re near the water.
🏖️ Long Beach-Specific Packing Tips:
- Use plastic bins or sealed containers for long-term storage
- Protect electronics from moisture
- Vacuum-seal seasonal clothing and bedding
- Avoid cardboard if storing items in a garage or outdoor unit
And don’t forget to tape boxes thoroughly — the ocean breeze is no joke.
FAQs About Packing — From Movers Who’ve Seen It All
Should I empty dresser drawers?
Yes — it protects the furniture and makes it easier to move. Pack clothes separately.
Can I leave clothes in the closet?
Yes — we provide wardrobe boxes free of charge. We’ll move them as-is.
Do you sell boxes and packing materials?
We can bring supplies, or you can purchase your own — totally up to you.
Can you pack my kitchen for me?
Yes — with our Partial Packing Service, we pack your kitchen and closet for FREE.
How early should I start packing?
At least 2–3 weeks before your move — sooner for large homes or if you’re packing alone.
Why Movers Long Beach Is the Right Choice for DIY or Full-Service Packing
We’ve seen good packing, bad packing, and “I just tossed it all in a bag” packing.
Whether you’re doing it yourself or letting us take the reins, we:
- Offer all-inclusive service — no hidden fees
- Include tools, shrink wrap, wardrobe boxes, and dollies
- Provide flexible options: Standard, Partial, and Full Pack services
- Give honest advice on what to pack, how, and when
- Work fast, carefully, and efficiently — so your boxes arrive as packed
Let’s Make Packing Feel Possible
Packing doesn’t have to be a dreaded chore. With a few smart strategies — and a moving team that knows what they’re doing — you can get it done faster, safer, and with fewer headaches.
Let Movers Long Beach help make your next move a smooth one — from the very first box to the final unload.
Contact us today for a customized moving quote, packing support, or just a little pro advice. We’re always here to help — and we know how to pack like champions.
