Why Long-Distance Packing Requires a Different Approach

Long distance packing isn’t just regular packing with more boxes—it’s a specialized process that requires strategic planning and careful execution. Here’s what you need to know:

Quick Answer: Essential Long-Distance Packing Steps

1. Start 6-8 weeks early to avoid rushed packing and costly mistakes
2. Declutter first to reduce weight by 20-30% and save money
3. Use professional-grade supplies including sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, and packing paper
4. Pack heavy items in small boxes (under 50 lbs) for proper weight distribution
5. Protect fragile items with extra padding and specialty boxes
6. Label everything clearly with room destination and contents
7. Create an inventory list to track all boxes and items
8. Pack an essentials box with 3-5 days of immediate needs

Unlike a local move, a long-distance relocation from Chicago means your belongings travel hundreds of miles, facing multiple handling points and extended transit times. This increases the risk of damage, as items spend days or weeks on the road. Proper packing is critical: fragile items need more cushioning, and heavy items require reinforced boxes. Since every pound adds to your final cost, strategic decluttering is key and can reduce expenses by 20-30%.

Whether you’re relocating from Chicago to another state or planning a cross-country journey from Melrose Park, the packing process demands attention to detail. Missing a critical step—like failing to properly cushion fragile items or overloading boxes—can result in damaged belongings and unexpected costs.

As Mina Georgalas, owner and president of Bernard Movers, I bring nearly 30 years of industry experience to every relocation. I’ve guided countless families through successful long-distance moves from Chicago, Illinois, and across 45 states. My hands-on experience with long distance packing has led to proven strategies that ensure your belongings arrive safely while keeping costs manageable.

The Ultimate Long-Distance Packing Strategy

The 8-Week Timeline for Long-Distance Packing

The secret to a stress-free long-distance move from Chicago or Melrose Park begins weeks in advance. Our experience shows packing for a long-distance move takes about three times longer than most people anticipate. Our 8-week timeline breaks the task into manageable steps:

Weeks 8-6: The Grand Overview
Take inventory of your home to decide what to bring. This is also the best time to research and book your moving company, especially during peak season.

Weeks 6-4: Declutter and Decide
This is where you can significantly cut costs, as decluttering can reduce moving weight by 20-30%. A good rule is to get rid of anything where the moving cost exceeds its replacement value. Sort items to keep, sell, trash, or donate to a charity like Goodwill. Tackle this room by room, starting with less-used spaces like attics or guest rooms, and pack non-essentials as you go.

Weeks 4-2: Room-by-Room Packing Begins
Focus on packing non-essentials room by room. This includes seasonal clothing, books, decorative items, and extra linens. Packing this way keeps you organized and allows you to clean each space as it empties.

Week 1: The Final Countdown
Pack remaining items, finalize your inventory list, and confirm all details with your movers. This is also the week to prepare your critical “essentials box.”

Moving Day: Execution
Load your essentials box, do a final walkthrough, and coordinate with our moving team for a smooth transition from Chicago, Melrose Park, or anywhere in Illinois.

For more in-depth planning, explore our planning your move guide and our moving out of state checklist.

Gathering the Right Supplies

For a long-distance move from Illinois, quality packing supplies are an investment in the safety of your belongings. The cost of quality supplies is minimal compared to replacing damaged items.

Here’s what you’ll need for effective long distance packing:

• Sturdy Moving Boxes: Use new, professional-grade boxes for superior strength. They come in various sizes:
  • Small Boxes: For heavy items like books, tools, and canned goods.
  • Medium Boxes: For kitchen items, linens, and toys.
  • Large Boxes: For light, bulky items like pillows and blankets.
• Specialty Boxes: Game-changers for specific items:
  • Wardrobe Boxes: Keep clothes on hangers to prevent wrinkles.
  • Dish Packs (Dish Barrels): Double-thick walls and cell dividers for china and glassware.
  • Picture/Mirror Boxes: Adjustable boxes to protect framed art and mirrors.
• Packing Materials:
  • Bubble Wrap: Essential for fragile items. Use anti-static bubble wrap for electronics.
  • Packing Paper/Newsprint: For wrapping items and filling gaps. Use clean newsprint to avoid ink transfer.
  • Moving Blankets/Furniture Pads: Protect furniture, appliances, and artwork.
• Tools and Accessories:
  • Heavy-Duty Packing Tape: Strong tape is a must.
  • Markers, Box Cutter/Scissors, Plastic Wrap, Mattress Bags.
• Plastic Containers: A durable, reusable alternative to cardboard boxes.

For more insights on sourcing supplies, check our guide on where to get moving boxes.

Core Packing Techniques

Efficient long distance packing is about how you pack. Our teams in Chicago have honed these techniques to secure your belongings.

1. Heavy Items in Small Boxes: A golden rule. Pack books, tools, and canned goods in small boxes to keep them under the 50-pound industry limit, making them safe to lift and preventing breakage.

2. Weight Distribution is Key: Place heavier items at the bottom of each box with lighter items on top. This prevents crushing and maintains the box’s structural integrity.

3. Space Efficiency Without Overpacking: Fill all empty spaces with packing paper, towels, or soft clothing to prevent items from shifting. Use vacuum-sealed bags for bulky bedding and clothing to save space.

4. Avoiding Overpacking: A properly packed box should close flat without bulging. If a box is too heavy or its sides are straining, redistribute the contents into another box.

Techniques for Special Items

Some items require extra care when moving long distances from Chicago or anywhere in Illinois.

• Fragile Items (Glassware, Dishes, China):

  • Use specialty dish pack boxes with double-thick walls.
  • Wrap each item individually in packing paper or bubble wrap.
  • Stack plates vertically (like records) and place glasses rim-down.
  • Fill all voids with crumpled paper to prevent movement.
  • Mark boxes clearly with “FRAGILE” and “THIS SIDE UP.”

• Electronics Protection:

  • Use original packaging if you have it.
  • Remove batteries to prevent corrosion.
  • Wrap devices in anti-static bubble wrap to protect internal components.
  • Label and bundle cables with their respective devices.

• Artwork and Mirrors:

  • Use telescoping picture boxes that adjust to fit.
  • Wrap items in bubble wrap, with extra padding on the corners.
  • Label boxes “FRAGILE,” “THIS SIDE UP,” and “DO NOT LAY FLAT.”

• Specialty Items (Pianos, Antiques): For high-value or uniquely shaped items, professional packing is your safest bet. Our teams have the training and equipment for these challenges.

For more details, consult our guide to packing fragile items. Our professional packing services in Chicago and Illinois are available to handle these items with expertise.

Finalizing Your Move: Organization and Professional Services

Mastering Organization: Labeling and Inventory

Clear labeling and a detailed inventory are your best friends for an organized unpacking experience after a long-distance move.

1. The Labeling System: A good system is more than just writing “Kitchen” on the box. Include:

   • Room Destination: (e.g., “Master Bedroom,” “Kitchen”).
   • Brief Contents List: (e.g., “Dishes & Glasses,” “Cookbooks”).
   • Box Numbering: (e.g., “1 of 50,” “2 of 50”) to track everything.
   • Color-Coding: Assign a color to each room and use colored tape on boxes for quick identification by movers.

2. The Inventory List: Your inventory is an insurance policy and an unpacking roadmap.

   • Use a spreadsheet or app to log the contents of each numbered box.
   • For valuable items, note their condition and take photos.
   • Keep multiple copies: one with you, one with your movers, and a digital backup.

3. The Essentials Box & First-Night Bag: These are critical for long distance packing, as your main shipment may take days or weeks to arrive.

   • Personal Essentials Bag: Pack 3-5 days of clothing, toiletries, medications, and important documents for each family member.
   • “First Day” Box: Include immediate necessities like toilet paper, cleaning supplies, paper towels, a few utensils, a coffee maker, and pet food. Label it “OPEN FIRST.”

For more on how we can simplify this process, explore our guide on full-service moving.

Understanding Professional Moving Services

Moving long-distance is a significant undertaking. A professional mover like Bernard Movers acts as your partner, ensuring your belongings are handled with care from Chicago to your new home.

When considering professional services for your long distance packing and move, here’s what to know:

• DIY vs. Professional Packing: While you can pack yourself, our professional packing services in Chicago and Melrose Park offer expertise and efficiency, saving you time and reducing the risk of damage.

• How Long-Distance Moves Are Charged: Unlike local moves, long-distance relocations are primarily based on:

  1. Weight of Your Shipment: Why decluttering is so beneficial.
  2. Distance of the Move: The mileage from your origin to your destination.
  3. Time of Year: Peak seasons can influence pricing.
  4. Additional Services: Packing, crating, or storage.

• Expedited vs. Crated Moving Services:

  • Expedited Services: Ideal for tight schedules. Your items travel directly to your new home, often with a guaranteed delivery date.
  • Crated Moving Services: A budget-friendly choice for smaller shipments or flexible timelines. Items are secured in crates, which may be consolidated with other shipments, offering extra protection at a lower cost.

Bernard Movers: Your Chicago and Illinois Moving Experts

As your trusted long-distance movers, Bernard Movers is ready to assist with every aspect of your relocation from Chicago, Melrose Park, or any of our service areas across Illinois. We offer transparent pricing, professional packing, and clear communication.

As an added benefit, we offer a 20% additional discount on moves to Georgia and Florida booked for delivery by March 15, 2025.

Choosing the right moving partner makes all the difference. We invite you to get a quote from a reliable Chicago moving company and explore our long-distance movers cost guide to see how we can tailor our services to your needs.