Tips For Unpacking After a Move Like a Pro

Updated on August 1, 2025

Relocating is a big job. Not only is it hard work, but it is also stressful and tiring. Most people think a local or long-distance move begins the day you start loading boxes into a moving truck or portable storage unit, but it starts when you make that big decision to move somewhere else. It begins with finding a new place to call home, possibly selling the one you live in, packing what you can, and orchestrating all the moving pieces (pun intended) of your relocation to the best of your ability so everything goes smoothly.

The last stage of the move is unpacking everything and settling into your new home. One question we hear is, "How do I unpack everything after my move is done?" This can be a difficult task, and many of our customers find themselves overwhelmed with unpacking after a move. After all, the move itself can be so exhausting that by the time you get all your boxes and furniture unloaded, the last thing you want to do is unpack your belongings and find a place for everything you own. This can be an exciting time, though, as you get to put your stamp on your new home and organize and set it up the way you want it to look, which can be a freeing experience!

Even though unpacking boxes and all of your stuff is not easy, it can be an exciting activity! You get to start with a blank slate and make your house into a home. We have a few tips that may help, including some preparatory tips before your move happens, that will simplify the unpacking phase of your move.

Tip #1: Organize Your Stuff Before You Pack for Your Move

One of the most important things you can do to ensure a quick unpacking after your move is to organize your belongings before packing. This takes time, effort, and planning. If you procrastinate and wait until the last minute to pack, you will likely end up packing in a messy and disorganized manner. This is a common moving mistake that is easy to avoid.

Instead, when you know you are making a move, you should start downsizing your belongings and packing things you can get by without having until you get to your new home. If you spread your packing over several weeks, you will have a very organized move, making unpacking a breeze. Start by making a list of essentials in your bedroom and bathroom, and prioritize packing those items into boxes before moving them into your moving solution or container. That way, it is the first thing to get unloaded and unpacked at your new home!

Tip #2: Label All of Your Moving Boxes and Materials

When you are packing, be sure to label everything. You don't have to order labels or use anything fancier than a magic marker to have a successful move. If you prefer to go the extra mile when labeling your boxes, you can use different colors of duct tape assigned to specific rooms to easily and quickly determine where the boxes need to go in the new house. You can also make a quick inventory list of what is in the box. You can write this on the box with a marker or tape a piece of paper to it.

Unpacking will be far easier if you can see what is in each box without opening each one. Be sure your valuables are packed and marked as well, and take extra precautions with them - check out our tips on that specific topic here.

Tip #3: Pack an Overnight Bag And Move-In Day Essentials

It's unreasonable to expect all your belongings to be unpacked and put away in the dresser on the first day. In fact, it may take several weeks before you are completely moved in. So, when packing, pack the essentials for those first few days in separate boxes that are easy to find. You will need some clothes, bedding, toiletries, a shower curtain, medications, a small toolkit, cleaning supplies, kitchen necessities, phone chargers, and other essentials you won't want to be without for a few days.

This bag or box with your essentials should be packed separately and kept either with you or packed last inside of your moving solution, so it is the very first thing you unpack at your new home. This will help you avoid the frantic stress of opening box after box as you search for that medication you need or a change of clothes for the night.

Bonus Tip: Use Furniture Sliders or Appliance Straps for an Easier Move

Furniture is heavy and is often the culprit behind moving injuries. You can purchase furniture sliders at your local hardware or home improvement store to help protect your flooring and make positioning your furniture in your new home easier. Another piece of moving tech you can get is moving or appliance straps. These utilitarian items go over your shoulders and underneath an appliance such as a refrigerator or washing machine. This takes the stress off your lower back and allows you to move heavy objects more easily and safely.

Unfortunately, determining where your existing furniture will look and function best in a new space can be challenging. You will likely need to move it around before you find the perfect place that fits your new space.

Tip #4: Don't Stress Over Your Move and Unpacking Everything

Unpacking after a move should be one of the less stressful aspects of your move, but we know this is easier said than done. It is essential to remember that getting everything unpacked and put away is not a race. It isn't realistic to think you will have everything done in a day or two. Instead, create a reasonable timeline for what you need to do before you start your new job or your kids need to start at their new school.

Tip #5: Put All Boxes In The Correct Rooms

When it is time to unload your boxes from your mobile storage container, take the extra step to place the boxes in their correct room. Instead of walking from the driveway to each room, consider having one person bring the box inside and another person ready to take it to its destination, which can be more efficient. This is a better solution than having multiple people wandering around your new home and placing boxes in different rooms that don't match where that box or item is supposed to go.

An effective strategy to make the unpacking process less stressful and more manageable is to place each box in its designated room right from the start, allowing you to unpack one area at a time and avoid feeling scattered. Labeling your boxes with stickers indicating their contents and intended destination also streamlines the process, helping you stay organized and making your move less daunting.

Not only will this make it easier to find specific items as needed, but it can also help you not feel overwhelmed. Putting all your boxes and furniture into one space, like the living room, home office, or garage, can make you feel like the walls (or tall stacks of boxes) are closing in.

Tip #6: Unpack The Essentials First

The best way to unpack after moving is to pack everything correctly the first time. If you follow the helpful tips above, you should be able to unpack your stuff quickly and have what you need right now in your new home.

It is vital to unpack your essential items as soon as possible. If you packed them last, they'll be the first to come out of your container, so you should be in good shape! Note that this is a bit different from the essentials or go-bag box mentioned above, as those are items you need for that first night at your new home to avoid having to open all these boxes to find what you need.

When prioritizing which boxes to open and unpack first after a move, it’s a good idea to focus on the ones labeled as 'essentials' or 'open first,' including your essentials box. These typically include boxes containing toiletries, basic cookware, bedding, temperature-sensitive items, etc. Here are some of the things you need to have out and ready for use on your first day in your new home:

• Coffee maker, coffee, sweeteners, and creamers.
• Plates, cups, bowls, silverware, and napkins.
• Dish soap, rags, towels, or paper towels.
• At least one pot or pan if you intend to make light meals.
• Drinks, snacks, and any food that you brought with you.
• Shower curtain, towels, rags, and toiletries.
• Toilet paper, hand soap, hand towels, or paper towels.
• Mattresses, bedding, and pillows (bed frames can be assembled at a more convenient time).

The unpacking process will take some time to accomplish, and not everything will be unpacked for even a couple of weeks to months after your move. Take your time unpacking and go one room at a time so everything is exactly where you want it to be. It's your new home - enjoy it and make it your own!

Bonus Tip: Involve Your Friends and Family Members to Help Make Your Move Easier

While this may sound self-serving, your friends and family are there for a reason: to help during times like this! Once you've set your moving date and started preparing, reach out to friends and family to see if they can lend a hand on the big day or even in the lead-up!

For example, you might have a lot of errands to run in the weeks leading up to your move. If you have children or pets that can't be left unattended for long periods, consider asking family or friends to stay with them while you complete that change of address at the Post Office, sign closing documents with your lawyer, or finish up necessary paperwork for your move. Or ask if they can help you with the move itself - packing, loading, and unpacking your belongings on the day of the move.

Don't take the help for granted. Offer to pay or, at the very least, provide food for those who help you during this time. This is especially true on your moving day - have plenty of water, snacks, and some substantial food such as pizza ready for your moving help!

Be sure to ask way in advance to give them the courtesy of being able to plan to help!

Zippy Shell Portable Moving & Storage Can Help With Your Upcoming Move

When unpacking after a big move, try to avoid common mistakes such as opening all boxes at once, which can create unnecessary clutter and stress. Instead, focus on unpacking essential items first, and tackle one room at a time to stay organized. Additionally, resist the urge to rush—give yourself time to decide where things belong, and ask your friends and family for help to keep the process efficient and enjoyable.

If you have a local or long-distance move coming up, it is vital that you use a moving company that can make your move as easy as possible. Zippy Shell has some of the industry's most flexible moving and storage options at a price that will fit your budget, and can even provide or recommend and trusted third-party professional moving labor assistance to simplify your packing and unpacking job.

No matter how big or small your move is or if you are in a big city or a rural suburb, Zippy Shell makes it simple and brings the solution to your door, and gives you up to three days to pack at your pace! With over 80 locations nationwide, we are bound to be able to serve you and your needs wherever you are. Give us a look today, get a free quote, and see how Zippy Shell can make your move and unpacking job less stressful!

Frequently Asked Questions About Unpacking After a Move

What should you do before you start unpacking?

Before unpacking, create a designated area for your moving boxes and other belongings. Prioritize essential items and sort boxes by room for efficiency. Consider making a checklist to ensure nothing is overlooked, including decorative items that will personalize your space. This organized approach streamlines the process, making it easier to settle into your new home smoothly and quickly.

What are some tips for decluttering following a move?

To declutter while unpacking, start by sorting items into categories: keep, donate, and discard. Tackle one room at a time to maintain focus. Use this opportunity to reconsider what you truly need. Finally, be ruthless—if you haven't used an item in the past year, it's likely time to let it go.

How long does it typically take to unpack after a move?

The time it takes to unpack after a move varies greatly, but on average, it can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. Factors like the size of your new home, the number of belongings, and your organizational skills all play significant roles in this process.

What is considered the most efficient way to unpack after moving?

The most efficient way to unpack after moving is to prioritize essential items first. Start with the kitchen and bedrooms, using labeled boxes for organization. Set up a designated unpacking area and tackle one room at a time, creating a systematic approach that reduces overwhelm and increases productivity.

Where should I start unpacking first after my move?

Begin unpacking in the kitchen, as it's essential for daily living. If you’ve brought essential items from your old home, prioritize setting up important items like dishes, utensils, and your kitchen table. Next, tackle the bedrooms to create a comfortable space. Finally, focus on living areas and storage to enhance functionality. This strategic approach streamlines your settling-in process effectively.

How can I organize my packing to make unpacking easier?

To make unpacking easier after a long day of moving, organize your packing by labeling boxes clearly with their contents and designated rooms. Use color-coded labels for different areas in your new home. Additionally, pack essential items separately to access them quickly upon arrival, streamlining the unpacking process significantly.