When to Start Packing: Creating a Moving Timeline

Let’s face it – when people say that moving is one of the most stressful events of their life, they don’t mean the big moving day. They mean the weeks and months that precede the big move, when you’re staring at your house full of sentimental goods, useless junk and everything in between, and thinking “what the hell am I meant to do with all this stuff?”

This is why one of the most common questions we get at Jim’s Removals is: When should I start packing? The answer heavily depends on your home size, how much stuff you have, and how organised you want to be, but we’ve collected some general tips that should help out everyone, from 4 bedroom home-hoarders to studio apartment minimalists. In this guide, we’ll walk you through a realistic moving timeline and packing schedule to help make your move as stress-free as possible.

Why Having a Moving Timeline Matters

Leaving packing until the last minute is one of the biggest causes of moving stress. A clear moving timeline helps you:

• Stay organised
  
  
• Avoid last-minute chaos
  
  
• Ensure nothing gets forgotten
  
  
• Pack efficiently by category
  
  
• Reduce moving costs by being ready on the day
  
  

Even if your move is still weeks away, you’ll never regret getting a headstart on your move, even if it means starting small - going out and buying the packing supplies, starting to dispose of things you don’t need, and eating through your pantry so you have less kitchen supplies to move.

When Should I Start Packing for a Move?

As a general rule of thumb, most people should start packing at least 4–6 weeks before moving day. That doesn’t mean boxing up everything straight away – it means starting with things you don’t use daily and working your way toward essentials.

Your Step-by-Step Moving Timeline

Here’s a breakdown of what to do week by week in the lead-up to your move.

6 Weeks Before Moving

Start the prep work:

• Create or download a moving checklist
  
  
• Declutter each room – sell, donate, or toss what you don’t need
  
  
• Start collecting boxes and packing supplies
  
  
• Notify schools, gyms, or other memberships
  
  

4 Weeks Before Moving

Start packing non-essentials:

• Seasonal items (e.g. winter coats if it’s summer)
  
  
• Spare linens, books, décor, hobby gear
  
  
• Label boxes clearly by room and contents
  
  
• Book your removalists – get a free quote from Jim’s Removals
  
  

2–3 Weeks Before Moving

Get serious:

• Pack most of the house except daily essentials
  
  
• Disassemble any furniture that can be pre-packed
  
  
• Notify utility providers and arrange reconnections
  
  
• Set up mail redirection
  
  

1 Week Before Moving

Final prep:

• Pack kitchenware (leave out minimal basics)
  
  
• Prepare an essentials bag with clothes, chargers, toiletries
  
  
• Defrost fridge/freezer
  
  

Day Before

• Pack up remaining items
  
  
• Dismantle beds if needed
  
  
• Do a last walk-through to check cupboards and drawers
  
  
• Relax – you’re ready!
  
  

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What Should I Pack Last?

Keep these items out until the very end:

• Everyday toiletries and medications
  
  
• Phone, laptop, and chargers
  
  
• Clothes and shoes for a few days
  
  
• Basic cooking tools or takeaway options
  
  
• Important documents (passport, lease, ID)

Pro tip: Pack these into a labelled “Essentials Box” and take it with you personally.

How Long Does Packing Take?

It depends on your home size and how much help you have, but here’s a rough guide:

• Studio or 1-bedroom unit: 1–2 full days
  
  
• 2–3 bedroom home: 3–5 full days
  
  
• 4+ bedroom home: 5–7 full days or more
  
  

If that sounds like a lot – we get it. That’s why many clients choose our full packing service to save time and energy.

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Tips to Stay on Track

• Set daily goals (e.g. “finish kitchen today”)
  
  
• Pack one room at a time
  
  
• Use checklists to track progress
  
  
• Label boxes clearly by room and priority
  
  
• Don’t overload boxes – especially with books
  
  

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Ready to Start Packing?

A clear moving timeline takes the pressure off and helps you feel in control. If you’re unsure where to begin, or just want help getting everything done, Jim’s Removals offers expert packing and moving services across Melbourne.

Get a free quote today and let us take the stress out of your move.