Moving Made Easier

Smart tips and tricks from fellow Substackers who’ve been there, packed that.

We’ve got the best community. I asked for moving advice, and our fellow Substackers delivered in style. From smart packing hacks to sanity-saving strategies, their tips and tricks prove once again that the collective wisdom here is worth more than any moving guide I could buy.

I’m sharing the tips here in case you, or someone you love, find yourselves staring down a stack of boxes and could use the help. Here’s the roundup, straight from fellow Substackers who’ve been there, packed that!

I’m starting with Jonathan Foster’s suggestion, because honestly, if you take his advice, you can stop reading right here 🙂:

Jonathan Foster:

“I want to say gasoline, a match, and then walk off with a toothbrush. But my attic is full of EVERYTHING, which means I’m on the wrong thread here ;).”

Katharine Kaufman:

“Get help!”

Jane Duncan Rogers:

“Pack boxes according to what’s in the current rooms/on shelves/in cupboards. Label the boxes with what was in that place and the room they’re headed to in the new house. This way, you’ll remember where all the little bits and bobs belong.”

Debi Hassler-Never Forsaken:

“Label everything by room with a big black Sharpie so you know where to stack as you unload. Buy a big roll of clear plastic wrap (the kind on a tape gun) to keep drawers closed. You can never have enough boxes!”

Darcy Lee:

“Sort into three bins: 1 = yes, 2 = not sure, 3 = bye-bye. Revisit the “not sure” pile the next day. If it’s not a firm yes within 20 seconds, it’s a no. Cardboard file boxes with lids that stack are cheaper than standard moving boxes and easier to manage. Accept that packing always takes longer than you plan—this mindset makes it less stressful. Enjoy your beautiful things and give them new places in your new home.”

Emma Vivian:

“Keep a designated box for giveaways. Every time you see something you don’t want, pop it in. When the box is full, take it to Goodwill, then repeat the process.”

Lee Kemter:

“Buy cheap mattress protectors that completely cover your mattresses. Careful labeling is key. Use plenty of paper for breakables.”

Kira Foxfeet:

“Purge and donate while packing. Use plastic totes for much of the packing, especially locking-lid ones for kitchenware and glass. Use t-shirts, towels, and blankets as packing material to prevent breakage.”

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Whether packing up a studio apartment or an entire attic, these tips are sure to help make the chaos a little more manageable.