10 Stress-Free Packing Hacks for a Smooth London Move

Moving house in London can be a challenge, and the thought of packing everything can feel overwhelming. However, with a few practical strategies, the process can be far more organised and efficient.

Below are our top 10 stress-free packing hacks to help you prepare for a seamless moving experience.

1. Declutter Before You Pack

Before you start filling boxes, take time to declutter your home. Go through each room and decide what you no longer need. Ask yourself: “Have I used this in the past year?” If the answer is no, consider donating, selling, or recycling it. The less you have to move, the quicker and easier your relocation will be.

For a complete pre-move checklist, see The Ultimate Checklist for Moving House in London.

2. Pack a ‘First Night’ Box

Prepare one clearly labelled box or bag containing essentials for your first 24–48 hours in your new home. Include toiletries, clothes, chargers, a kettle, and important documents. Having these items easily accessible will save you from searching through boxes late at night.

Read more practical advice in Preparing for Your Move.

3. Use What You Already Have

Instead of buying large amounts of bubble wrap, use towels, clothes, and blankets to protect fragile items. This not only saves money but also makes efficient use of space. Suitcases and laundry baskets are ideal for heavy items such as books.

4. Keep Clothes on Their Hangers

Save time by keeping your clothes on hangers. Group several garments together, slide a large bin bag over them from the bottom up, and tie it around the hanger tops. Once you arrive, you can hang them directly in your new wardrobe.

5. Label Every Box Clearly

Be specific when labelling boxes. Write both the room name and a brief description of the contents on at least two sides of each box. Consider using a colour-coding system — for example, red stickers for the kitchen, blue for the living room, and green for bedrooms.

6. Photograph Your Electronics

Before disconnecting your television, computer, or sound system, take a quick photo of the cable setup. This simple step will help you reconnect everything easily later. Use empty toilet rolls to store cables neatly and prevent tangling.

7. Pack Plates Vertically

When packing plates, stack them on their sides rather than flat. This reduces pressure and the risk of breakage. Add towels or paper plates between each one for extra protection.

8. Store Screws and Small Parts in Ziploc Bags

When dismantling furniture, place all screws and fittings in labelled Ziploc bags and tape them to the corresponding item. It saves time and prevents missing parts — a useful tip also highlighted in our Kingston & Richmond Moving Guide.

9. Keep Drawers and Cabinets Intact

If a chest of drawers is light enough, leave the contents inside and wrap the unit with cling film to secure it. The same technique works perfectly for cutlery trays or small storage units, saving both packing time and effort.

10. Start Early and Pack Room by Room

Avoid last-minute stress by starting your packing well in advance. Begin with areas you use the least, such as spare rooms or storage spaces. Focusing on one room at a time will keep you organised and make the process feel more manageable.

Need Help on Moving Day?

Packing is only one part of the process — and we’re here to make the rest just as simple.

At Kingston and Richmond Removals, our experienced team ensures your belongings are transported safely and efficiently. If you have bulky or heavy furniture, consider our furniture hoist rental service for a smooth and damage-free move.

Need temporary storage? We can assist with that too. Explore our guide to the best storage facilities in London.

Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote and make your London move simple, safe, and stress-free.