Moving can be challenging at the best of times, but when it’s a last-minute move, the pressure rises and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Whether you’ve just received a job offer in a new city or your moving date was moved up unexpectedly, packing in a hurry doesn’t have to be chaotic. With some organisation, the right packing strategies and a few practical hacks, you can get everything ready quickly and efficiently.

At Bristol Van Removals, we understand how stressful last-minute moves can be. That’s why we’ve put together these simple, effective tips to help you get packed and out the door without going crazy. 

1. Prioritise Essentials First

When you’re moving quickly, you won’t have time to pack items by room or category in a leisurely fashion. Instead, focus first on the things you’ll need as soon as you’re in your new home.

What to Pack First:

• Toiletries: Start with essentials like toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap and any other daily-use toiletries.
• Clothing and Basics: Set aside a small collection of clothes that’ll last a few days, particularly if you won’t be able to unpack them straight away.
• Important Documents: Make sure passports, identification, medical records and any other critical paperwork are easily accessible.
• Everyday Electronics: Pack up your laptop, phone charger and any other gadgets you’ll need immediately.

Packing your essentials first not only ensures you’ll have them at hand when needed but also helps you tick off important boxes before moving on to non-essential items.

2. Use Efficient Packing Methods

Last-minute moves aren’t the time for meticulous packing. Here are some quick and effective packing methods to save time and space:

• Suitcase Storage: If you have suitcases lying around, don’t leave them empty. Fill them with clothing, shoes or even books for safe, sturdy storage.
• Cushion with Towels and Linens: Use towels, bedding and blankets to wrap fragile items. Not only does this save on bubble wrap, but it also reduces the number of boxes you’ll need for linens.
• Leave Clothes on Hangers: If possible, move your clothes while they’re still on hangers. Place them in a large garbage bag or garment bag, tie the top and they’re good to go. This trick keeps clothes wrinkle-free and saves valuable time.
• Keep Drawers Full: Don’t empty your dresser drawers — take them out, wrap them securely in plastic or blankets and transport them as they are. You’ll save both packing and unpacking time.

These strategies can help you pack faster while keeping your belongings secure.

3. Make Use of Available Resources

When you’re short on time, you may also be short on boxes. Rather than spending precious time sourcing packing materials, get creative with what you already have:

• Laundry Bins and Hampers: Perfect for transporting bulky items like towels, blankets or even clothes.
• Reusable Shopping Bags: Sturdy and easy to carry, reusable bags can hold various items, from pantry goods to books.
• Kitchen Containers and Tupperware: Use these for smaller items, especially things that could get lost, like jewellery or small electronics.
• Backpacks and Handbags: Fill these with valuable or delicate items that you may want to keep close during the move.

By using resources you already have, you’ll minimise waste, keep things cost-effective and save time hunting for more boxes.

4. Delegate and Seek Help

A last-minute move is no time to go solo if you can avoid it. Get friends, family or even professionals involved to lighten the load and help you pack faster.

• Assign Tasks to Friends or Family: Ask each person to take responsibility for specific areas, like the kitchen or bedroom. Delegating tasks in this way will ensure that everything gets packed without overlap.
• Hire Professionals: At Bristol Van Removals, we offer emergency packing services specifically for time-sensitive moves. Our experienced team can handle everything from packing fragile items to loading your belongings safely and securely, giving you peace of mind and extra breathing room.
• Organise a Packing Party: Sometimes, calling on a few friends with the promise of takeaway or snacks can be the fastest way to get things done. Even just an extra set of hands can make a huge difference.

Delegating will help you keep to a schedule and make the process more manageable.

5. Stay Organised Amidst the Chaos

Staying organised during a last-minute move can feel impossible, but a little organisation goes a long way. Here’s how to keep things simple yet effective:

• Label Boxes Clearly: Quick labels like “Kitchen,” “Bathroom,” and “Essentials” will help you keep track of your items. If you’re short on time, use colour-coded sticky notes to mark rooms — this takes seconds and keeps things clear.
• Create a Basic Checklist: Make a rough list of essential items and areas you need to pack. It doesn’t have to be comprehensive, but it will give you a rough structure to avoid leaving anything important behind.
• Group Items by Category: Try to pack items in groups, even if they aren’t going in a single box. For instance, keep kitchen items together, even if they’re in bags or bins. This will make unpacking less chaotic and reduce the chance of things going missing.

Keeping a basic level of organisation throughout the process will make unpacking easier and ensure you don’t overlook essentials.

6. Pack for the First Night

A last-minute move usually means you won’t be unpacking everything right away, so make sure to pack a bag or box with first-night essentials. This includes:

• Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap and towels.
• Clothing: Fresh clothes, sleepwear and slippers.
• Bedding: Sheets, pillows and blankets.
• Basic Kitchen Supplies: A mug, some cutlery and a plate or two in case you want a snack or drink.

This “first-night kit” will help you get through the first night in your new home comfortably without having to dig through multiple boxes.

How Bristol Van Removals Can Help with Last-Minute Moves

Packing in a rush doesn’t mean you have to compromise on quality. Bristol Van Removals offers specialised last-minute moving services designed to make your transition as smooth as possible. Our professional team is trained to handle time-sensitive moves with efficiency, care, and attention to detail. From emergency packing and labelling to safe and secure transport, we’re here to ensure that everything arrives at your new home quickly and intact.

So if you’re feeling the pressure of a last-minute move, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our team can take on as much or as little of the packing and moving as you need, allowing you to focus on getting settled in your new home.