Published on : 15 June 2018

Moving Home Cannot Be Done in One Day

Moving home is one of those life events that always seems simpler in theory than in practice. Many people assume they can pack their belongings in a few hours, load everything into a van, and settle into their new home by the evening. In reality, the process involves a long list of tasks, countless small decisions, and more physical work than most expect. Successful home moves rely on preparation, planning, and a realistic understanding of how long each step takes. By approaching the move proactively, you reduce stress, avoid last minute surprises, and give yourself enough time to protect your belongings properly.

Another common misconception is that moving is just about boxes. The truth is that every home has hidden storage spaces, forgotten items, and areas that require special attention. People often underestimate the number of possessions they have because these items are spread across different areas of the property. When everything finally comes out of cupboards, wardrobes, and lofts, the volume can be surprising. This is why a move cannot be rushed and why preparation matters just as much as the move itself.

Why Moving Home Takes Time

Planning your move is crucial because it allows you to take a structured approach rather than rushing at the last minute. Every stage, from packing to transporting and unpacking, takes time, effort, and organisation. Moving home cannot realistically be done in one day unless it is a very small move with minimal belongings. Recognising this fact early helps you mentally prepare and avoid unnecessary stress.

Essential Packing Tips

Assess Your Storage Areas

Before placing an online order for moving boxes, it’s crucial to thoroughly assess your storage areas. Consider where you have items stored, such as:

  • Shed
  • Garage
  • Other outbuildings
  • Basement
  • Under the stairs
  • Loft/attic

Many people forget that these areas often contain bulky, awkwardly shaped, or seasonal items that require more packing materials than expected. For example, gardening tools, sports equipment, and power tools usually need strong boxes or specialist protection. Items stored in basements or lofts may be dusty or delicate, so they should be packed with extra care. Assessing these spaces early ensures you avoid running out of supplies halfway through the process.

Order the Right Amount of Supplies

Understanding these spaces helps ensure you order the right amount of moving supplies. In Birmingham, local customers often return for additional boxes, tape, and bubble wrap. This is common, as most people don’t order enough boxes or packing materials initially.

Running out of materials mid pack can slow down your entire schedule and increase stress. Even if your move is still weeks away, starting with a box count and evaluating the types of possessions you have gives you a clearer picture of what you will need. Soft items like bedding and clothing are easy to pack, but fragile items such as ornaments, glassware, electronics, and artwork need proper padding and strong boxes. Planning ahead reduces the risk of damage and helps everything stay organised for a faster unpacking process later.

Check Every Cupboard and Storage Unit

Take the time to check all your cupboards, including sideboards, desks, dressers, and other storage units you might have overlooked. Carefully estimate how many boxes you’ll need and consider ordering extra. If you’re in Solihull, Knowle, Sutton Coldfield, or Coventry, remember you can always come back for more packing materials.

When you review your cupboards and storage units, open every drawer and shelf, even the ones you rarely use. These areas often contain small but important items like documents, accessories, stationery, or personal keepsakes. Packing these properly prevents them from getting lost in the shuffle. Using labelled boxes or clear containers can help you identify sensitive items quickly. If you work from home or have hobby equipment, allocate dedicated boxes for those categories as well, so your essentials do not get mixed with general household items.

Get Expert Advice on Packing Supplies

We welcome any order size, whether it’s just 2 or 3 boxes. Our friendly staff offers valuable advice to help you choose the right supplies. Only you know which furniture needs extra protection, but we’re here to guide you through the process.

Different homes require different packing strategies, and no two moves are ever the same. Some households have minimal belongings but several large furniture pieces that require blankets, wrap, or corner protectors. Others have countless small items that demand a higher number of medium sized boxes. Our team can help you evaluate what type of supplies suit your specific needs. For example, wardrobe boxes make moving clothes much easier, while double walled boxes are ideal for heavier items like books or kitchenware.

Start Preparing Well in Advance

Effective moving starts well before moving day. Plan ahead, handle your post mail forwarding, and declutter the items you won’t take with you. Although parting with belongings can be challenging, it’s an essential part of the process.

Declutter Before You Pack

Decluttering is one of the most overlooked aspects of moving. The fewer unnecessary items you pack, the faster and cheaper your move becomes. Donating unwanted items, selling pieces you no longer use, or recycling things that have worn out can dramatically reduce the number of boxes you need. This step also helps your new home feel more organised from day one because you are not carrying clutter into a fresh space.

Create a Packing Timeline

It is also wise to create a timeline for the weeks leading up to your move. Allocate specific days for packing different rooms and keep essentials aside for a last minute box. This box should include items such as chargers, basic toiletries, medications, important documents, and other daily necessities. Preparing it early prevents the frustration of searching through boxes on your first night in the new home.

Notify Utilities and Plan the Day

Additionally, consider notifying utility providers, updating your address with relevant organisations, and preparing a plan for the moving day itself. If you are hiring a removals company, confirm timings, vehicle access, and any special requirements for heavy or delicate items. Good organisation on the front end ensures a smoother moving experience from start to finish.

Final Thoughts for a Stress Free Move

Happy moving day! We hope you have all the removal boxes you need to make your move as smooth as possible.

By giving yourself enough time, recognising what needs extra attention, and preparing the right packing materials, you set yourself up for a stress free experience. Moving home may not be achievable in one day, but with the right preparation it can be far more manageable than most people expect. A carefully planned approach helps protect your belongings, keep your tasks organised, and make the transition to your new home a positive and memorable moment.