Evaluate Packing & Moving Services
Before tackling boxes and tape, consider the packing and moving service options available:
Full-Service Packing
Full-service movers handle every detail, from providing boxes to disassembling furniture and wrapping fragile items. Trained packers:
- Bring all necessary materials (bubble wrap, specialty cartons, custom crates)
- Pack efficiently room by room
- Label boxes and create an inventory
- Load, transport, and unload your belongings
- Optional: unpack and remove packing debris with packing & unpacking services
According to Nelson Westerberg, three packers can wrap a three-bedroom home in 6–10 hours.
Partial Packing
Partial packing lets you handle some items while professionals focus on fragile or high-value pieces. Options include:
- Kitchen or fragile-only packing
- Select rooms like living room or master bedroom
- Seasonal items (holiday décor, winter gear)
Fragile-Only Packing
For antiques, artwork, and electronics, fragile-only packing ensures VIP handling with custom crates and foam padding. Pricing per MoveAdvisor starts around $70–$150 per crate.
DIY Packing with PODs
PODs let budget-conscious movers pack at their own pace. Combine with professional help for heavy items to save time and money (A Beautiful Mess).
Plan Your Move Timeline
Local Moves
Book movers 4–6 weeks in advance. Peak seasons fill fast, so reserve early.
Long-Distance Moves
Book 6–8 weeks ahead to declutter, compare quotes, and coordinate storage or POD delivery.
Estimate Your Budget
- Hourly rates: Local packers ~$80/hour per packer (MoveAdvisor)
- Full-service moving labor: $35–$50 per mover/hour (Moving.com)
- Flat-rate for long-distance moves based on shipment size
- Specialty services: custom crating, white-glove handling
Select a Moving Company
- Verify credentials (FMCSA, CT DOT LIC. C-589, ICC MC-252992, US DOT #482141)
- Read reviews: Check punctuality, damage rates, and professionalism (Collegian Movers)
- Get multiple in-person estimates to avoid hidden fees
Prepare Your Home
- Declutter, donate, and purge unnecessary items (Buy Nothing groups)
- Organize essentials in a “first-night” box
- Clear pathways for safe crew movement
Packing Tips
Materials & Tools
- Small, medium, large boxes and wardrobe boxes
- Specialty cartons for mirrors, pictures, and mattresses (packing supplies)
- Bubble wrap, padding, and furniture blankets
Labeling & Inventory
Number boxes and log contents in a spreadsheet or app to speed unloading.
Protect Fragile Items
Wrap with clothing, towels, or bubble wrap. Use double-boxing or custom crating for antiques.
Packing Smart for PODs
Place heavier boxes on the bottom, secure with ratchet straps, and store fragile items personally.
Handle Personal Items
- Transport computers, electronics, plants, and perishables yourself
- Pack a pet travel kit: leashes, food, medication, comfort items
- Include a kid-friendly box for toys and art supplies
Coordinate Moving Day
- Communicate clearly with movers
- Manage loading and verify inventory counts
- Prioritize unpacking essentials first
- Furniture assembly and junk removal (optional services)
Additional Services
- Storage solutions for short- or long-term needs
- White-glove handling for high-value items
Conclusion
Professional packing and moving services turn your Connecticut relocation into a streamlined, stress-free project. Evaluate service levels, plan timelines, budget properly, and declutter before packing. On move day, communicate clearly and leverage expert help for loading, unloading, and optional unpacking. Explore packing services near me or dive deeper into packing and unpacking services tailored to your needs.
