As anyone who has ever moved already knows, there are no set rules about how you should label your moving boxes. Everyone has their system, but there are ways to make it easier for your movers on the day that will also simplify unpacking once you’re in your new home. The more organized you are when packing and labeling your boxes, the more time and belongings you can save during your move. 

3 Tips for Labeling Boxes During Your Move

1. Use Colored Adhesive Labels

You will find an assortment of adhesive labels at your local office supply store, but the larger they are, the easier they'll be to see. Purchase colored labels and assign one to each room. For example, blue labels go to the kitchen while yellow labels are for the master bedroom. Save the color legend in the notes on your phone in case you forget and share it with your movers. Using adhesive labels saves you time from having to label each box “bedroom” or “kitchen.” It’s also a good idea to purchase pre-printed labels that identify “fragile” or “handle with care” items. 

2. Write a Brief Inventory on Each Box

On the top or side of each box, write a short list of the contents as soon as you’re finished packing. Instead of listing each item, simplify the description to a general term that can save time, such as “decorations” or “contents of the nightstand.” This can also help you prioritize which boxes to unpack.

3. Number Your Boxes

Once all the boxes have been packed, total up the number and grab a thick marker. It’s not uncommon to question whether a box was lost in transit during a move but numbering your boxes can help you spot one that is missing. Label your boxes “1 of 20,” for example, so you can count the number of boxes on the moving truck and again in your new home to identify any that are missing before you dismiss your movers. 

If packing and labeling your moving boxes get too overwhelming, consider hiring a moving company that also offers packing services. A Smooth Move in Cincinnati, OH, has helped customers pack and move efficiently for almost 20 years. Their packing services prepare your belongings for a secure moving day, and their professional movers use furniture covers and clean moving trucks to get your items to the new home in the same condition. Call (513) 481-1316 for a free estimate or visit their website to learn more about their packing and moving services today.