General Packing Tips: Move Smarter, Pack Safer
1. Start Early, Pack Room by Room
Don’t underestimate how long packing takes. We recommend starting 1-2 weeks in advance and focusing on one room at a time to stay organized and efficient.
Pro Tip:
Start with rooms that are used less frequently (e.g., guest bedrooms, storage closets), and leave daily essentials like the kitchen and bathrooms for last.
2. Declutter Before You Pack
Moving is a great opportunity to organize your life. Sort items into four categories: Keep, Donate, Recycle, Discard.
In Shanghai, you can use platforms like AiHuishou, Xianyu (Idle Fish), or community 'sharing racks' to dispose of or donate unwanted items.
3. Label Every Box Clearly
Use a thick marker to label at least two sides of every box:
- Room name (e.g., Kitchen, Master Bedroom)
- Brief description of contents (e.g., 'Plates – Fragile' or 'Winter Clothes')
- Special markings: Fragile / Heavy / This side up
If you have help from maids or movers, use bilingual labels (English + Chinese) to make communication easier.
4. Use the Right Packing Materials
Using the correct packing materials can significantly reduce damage and packing time:
- Sturdy boxes in various sizes
- Bubble wrap or towels to protect fragile items
- Packing tape + tape gun
- Reusable plastic bins (great for clothes and small electronics)
- Zip bags (for small items like remotes, screws, small hardware)
- Colored stickers or numbered labels for rooms
Parrocat Move can provide packing boxes or reusable plastic bins upon request.
5. Don’t Overload Boxes
Books and heavy items should go into small boxes,
while lighter but bulky items (like bedding or clothes) go into larger boxes.
General Packing Rule: Each box should be light enough for one person to lift safely.
6. Protect Fragile Items Carefully
When packing plates, glasses, vases, or artwork:
- Use bubble wrap, towels, or even T-shirts as cushioning
- Fill empty spaces in boxes to prevent items from shifting
- Use 'dish-pack' boxes if available
Tip: Pack plates vertically (like records) for better shock resistance.
7. Keep an 'Essentials Box'
Prepare a separate box or bag with items you'll need on your first night:
- Phone charger
- Toiletries
- Bed linens and a change of clothes
- Basic kitchenware
- Pet food or medicine
- Important documents (passport, lease, ID)
This box should travel with you — not in the truck.
Additional Tip: Let Us Help You Pack
Parrocat Move offers flexible packing solutions:
- Self-packing: We provide the boxes, you pack
- Partial packing: You pack clothes, we handle fragile and large items
- Full-service packing: You don’t lift a finger — we pack and move everything for you
Our bilingual team will help you move quickly, safely, and smoothly!
If you need help with packing or have any questions about our services, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free quote.
