Introduction
Packing is one of the most important parts of a successful move.
Good packing protects your belongings, speeds up loading and unloading, reduces the risk of damage and makes unpacking far easier.
At J Doolan Relocation Specialists, we've been helping Melbourne families relocate since 1921. Over more than 100 years, we've packed everything from apartments and family homes through to offices, antiques and fragile artwork.
This guide shares the same packing advice our professional crews use every day.
Start Packing Early
One of the biggest mistakes people make is leaving everything until the last few days.
Start several weeks before moving day.
Begin with:
• Spare bedrooms
• Decorations
• Books
• Seasonal clothing
• Garage items
• Storage areas
Leaving everyday essentials until last keeps your home functional while steadily reducing the workload.
Use Quality Packing Materials
Cheap boxes often collapse.
Professional moving cartons are designed to protect your belongings.
We recommend:
• Double-walled cartons
• Packing paper
• Bubble wrap
• Mattress bags
• Furniture blankets
• Tape
• Labels
Good packing materials reduce the chance of damaged furniture and broken household items.
Don't Overfill Boxes
Heavy cartons are harder to lift and more likely to fail.
Pack heavier items into smaller cartons.
Examples include:
• Books
• Files
• Kitchenware
Use larger cartons for lighter items like:
• Linen
• Cushions
• Clothing
• Toys
Wrap Fragile Items Carefully
Fragile items deserve extra attention.
Always individually wrap:
• Glassware
• China
• Ornaments
• Picture frames
• Mirrors
• Electronics
Fill empty spaces inside cartons using packing paper to prevent movement during transport.
Label Every Box
Good labelling saves hours during unpacking.
Write:
• Room destination
• Contents
• Fragile (if required)
• This Side Up
The more clearly labelled your cartons are, the faster your removalists can place everything in the correct room.
Pack an Essentials Box
Keep one carton with everything you'll need during the first 24 hours.
Include:
• Phone chargers
• Medications
• Toiletries
• Coffee and tea
• Basic kitchen items
• Snacks
• Important documents
• Children's essentials
This prevents unnecessary searching after a long moving day.
Prepare Furniture
Large furniture should be prepared before moving day.
We recommend:
Removing shelves
Removing loose drawers
Disconnecting appliances
Securing power cords
Wrapping delicate finishes
Disassembling beds where practical
Our team can also assist with furniture dismantling and reassembly if required.
Leave Heavy Lifting to Professionals
Some items should never be moved without experienced removalists.
Examples include:
• Pianos
• Pool tables
• Marble tables
• Large fridges
• Safes
• Gym equipment
Professional equipment helps reduce the risk of injury and damage.
Professional Packing Services
If you're short on time or simply want extra peace of mind, J Doolan offers professional packing services throughout Melbourne.
Our experienced packers can:
✔ Pack your entire home
✔ Pack selected rooms
✔ Pack fragile items only
✔ Supply professional cartons
✔ Wrap artwork
✔ Prepare antiques
✔ Pack offices
Many customers find professional packing saves both time and money by making moving day significantly more efficient.
Packing Materials Available
We also supply professional moving materials including:
• Standard cartons
• Book cartons
• Picture cartons
• Porta Robes
• Packing paper
• Bubble wrap
• Tape
• Mattress bags
• Furniture covers
Our team can recommend exactly what you'll need.
Why Choose J Doolan?
Since 1921 we've helped thousands of Victorian families move safely.
Our experienced removalists know exactly how to protect furniture during every stage of the move.
Whether you're packing yourself or using our professional packing service, we'll help ensure your belongings arrive safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
How early should I start packing?
Ideally begin two to four weeks before your move, starting with items you use least often.
What should I pack first?
Seasonal items, spare rooms, books, decorations and storage areas are excellent places to start.
Should I empty drawers?
Light clothing can often remain in drawers. Heavy items should be removed to reduce weight and prevent damage.
Do you supply moving boxes?
Yes. We offer a range of professional moving cartons and packing materials suitable for all types of moves.
Do you offer professional packing services?
Absolutely. Our experienced team can pack your entire home or assist with selected fragile or valuable items.
Ready to Make Moving Easier?
Whether you're packing yourself or looking for a complete packing service, J Doolan Relocation Specialists are here to help.
With more than 100 years of experience, we'll help ensure your move is organised, efficient and stress-free.
Get your free quote today or speak with our team about professional packing services.