How to Label Boxes for Moving

Preparing for a Long-Distance Move

Patricia is planning a long-distance move, as her family is moving from Queens to Atlanta “You never realize how much stuff you’ve accumulated until it’s time to move,” Patricia said. “I thought I’d understood that with the times I’d moved before, but now that we have kids? The sheer volume of clothing, toys, and possessions is just astonishing. What I want to know is if there’s anything I can do to make the unpacking process faster and easier?”

Label Your Moving Boxes

The Shleppers team has heard this question before, and we have one word for you: labels. Accurate, comprehensive labels for your moving boxes are absolutely essential. Not only do they help the movers make sure the boxes are delivered to the right room within your new home, they make it quick and simple for you to find the things you want in a hurry. Here are some tips from the best long-distance moving service in NYC on making the most of your labels:

Indicate Which Room the Items Belong In

Each box label should have the name of the room the box should wind up in. Label as specifically as possible; for example, you may have boxes for the kitchen and pantry packed separately. Label children’s bedroom boxes with their names. It helps them find their things and makes the entire moving process less overwhelming for them.

Number Each Box

Assign every box a number and a total number of boxes for each room. For example, Kitchen 1 / 4. This means you’re looking at the first of 4 boxes that belong in the kitchen. Subsequent boxes will be numbered 2 / 4, 3 / 4, and 4 /4.  These numbers should correspond to your inventory list. This makes checking to be sure everything’s arrived safely a snap – if something’s missing, you’ll know what it is.

Include a Description of the Box’s Contents

You’ll also want to include a brief description of each box’s contents. Use keywords to describe what’s in each box. Put your smartphone to work for you: take a picture of what’s inside each box and tag it with the box number before you seal it. That way if you really need to find a specific item in a hurry, you can swipe through your photos, identify the proper box quickly, and retrieve the desired item.

Bonus info: the word miscellaneous may be accurate, but it’s seldom useful when unpacking. The same is true for ‘etc.’ and ‘stuff’.

Parenting tip: If the kids are having a hard time coping with their move, sweeten the unpacking process by packing a surprise in one of the boxes they’ll be unpacking. A new stuffed animal or video game can do a lot to take the edge off of a stressful event.

Organize Boxes by Priority Level

Take things a step further by indicating the priority level of each box. By labeling a box “high priority” (you can just write “H”), you’ll know to unpack that box first since it has items you’ll need sooner rather than later. Boxes with low priority markings can stay packed for longer.

Need Moving Assistance? Call New York Movers Shleppers

Moving doesn’t have to be stressful. With long-distance moving company, Shleppers Moving & Storage, you can count on efficient and professional service that will have you settled into your home in no time at all. If you need help packing or unpacking all those boxes, we do that too! Just give us a call at 800-847-4537 or fill out a free no-obligation quote.