How many boxes do I need?

As a rough guide: a one-bedroom flat needs around 20–30 boxes, a two-bedroom house around 30–50, and a three-bedroom house around 50–70. It's better to have too many than too few.

Should I pack an essentials box?

Absolutely. Pack a box (or bag) with everything you'll need on the first night: kettle, mugs, tea bags, toilet roll, phone chargers, basic toiletries, medications, a change of clothes, and bedding. Keep it with you, not on the removal van. See our [moving day survival guide](/guides/moving-day-survival-guide) for more on what to prepare the night before.

Can I leave clothes in drawers?

For light furniture, some removal companies are happy for you to leave clothes in drawers — it saves time. Check with your removers first, and remove anything heavy or breakable.

Packing

Packing tips for moving house: how to do it properly

Good packing makes the difference between a smooth move and a chaotic one. Start early, use the right materials, and label everything. Here are practical tips to help you pack efficiently and protect your belongings.

Start with a packing plan

Begin packing 2–3 weeks before moving day. Start with rooms and items you use least — loft, spare room, books, ornaments, out-of-season clothes. Leave everyday essentials (kettle, toiletries, phone chargers, bedding) until last. Pack one room at a time and keep items from the same room together. Decluttering before you start packing will make this much easier.

Use the right materials

Use strong, double-walled cardboard boxes for heavy items like books. Wardrobe boxes keep clothes on hangers. Bubble wrap and packing paper protect fragile items — newspaper works but can leave ink stains. Use plenty of tape to seal boxes securely on the bottom. You can buy packing materials from removal companies, or get free boxes from supermarkets and local shops.

Protect fragile items

Wrap each fragile item individually in bubble wrap or packing paper. Stand plates on their edges (like records) rather than flat — they're much less likely to break. Fill gaps in boxes with scrunched-up paper or clothing. Mark fragile boxes clearly on multiple sides and on top.

Label everything clearly

Label every box on the top and at least two sides with the room it belongs to and a brief description of contents. Use a colour-coded system (coloured stickers or markers) for each room. Number your boxes and keep a simple inventory list on your phone. This makes unpacking dramatically easier and helps your removal team know where to put things.

Useful links

Packing advice — British Association of Removers— Professional packing guidance from the BAR

Common questions

How many boxes do I need?: As a rough guide: a one-bedroom flat needs around 20–30 boxes, a two-bedroom house around 30–50, and a three-bedroom house around 50–70. It's better to have too many than too few.
Should I pack an essentials box?: Absolutely. Pack a box (or bag) with everything you'll need on the first night: kettle, mugs, tea bags, toilet roll, phone chargers, basic toiletries, medications, a change of clothes, and bedding. Keep it with you, not on the removal van. See our moving day survival guide for more on what to prepare the night before.
Can I leave clothes in drawers?: For light furniture, some removal companies are happy for you to leave clothes in drawers — it saves time. Check with your removers first, and remove anything heavy or breakable.

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