Packing a moving truck might seem like a game of real-life Tetris—but trust us, there’s a method to the madness. Whether you’re doing a DIY move or just want to make sure your movers do it right, knowing how to pack a moving truck properly can save time, space, and most importantly, prevent damage to your stuff.
Get the Right Size Truck
First things first: choose the right truck size. Too small and you’ll be making multiple trips; too big and your items might shift too much during the ride. As a general guide:
- 10–12 ft truck: Studio or 1-bedroom apartment
- 14–17 ft truck: 2-bedroom apartment or small house
- 20–26 ft truck: 3-bedroom+ house
When in doubt, go slightly larger—having a bit of extra space is better than cramming.
Gather the Tools You’ll Need
To pack efficiently and safely, we recommend having these essentials on hand:
- Moving blankets or furniture pads
- Stretch wrap and moving straps
- Dollies or hand trucks
- Bungee cords or rope
- Boxes of various sizes
And of course, label all your boxes clearly—you’ll thank yourself later when unloading.
Load Heaviest Items First
Start with the heaviest and largest items like:
- Sofas and couches
- Mattresses and bed frames
- Refrigerators and washers/dryers
- Dressers and bookshelves
Place them upright against the walls of the truck to keep the center space open and balanced. This helps with weight distribution and prevents toppling.
Use a Tiered Packing Method
We like to think in layers:
- Bottom layer: Large, heavy items.
- Middle layer: Boxes—heavier ones on the bottom, lighter ones on top.
- Top layer: Small, fragile items, like lamps or cushions (well-padded).
Make sure to fill in all gaps using bags of clothes, pillows, or blankets to keep everything secure. Shifting during transport is the #1 cause of damage.
Distribute Weight Evenly
We believe this is a game-changer. If all the heavy stuff is on one side of the truck, it’ll be harder to drive and could cause issues when turning. Try to spread the weight evenly across both sides and from front to back of the truck.
Protect Fragile Items
Wrap delicate items in moving blankets or bubble wrap and place them away from walls or heavy furniture. Use straps to tie down fragile sections and prevent movement.
Save Essentials for Last
Anything you’ll need right away in your new home—like tools, cleaning supplies, or an overnight bag—should go in last so they’re the first things you can grab when you arrive.
Need Professional Packing Help?
If the idea of fitting your entire life into a truck sounds overwhelming, you’re not alone. That’s where the pros come in. Pads & Dollies Movers specialize in expert moving services, including smart and secure truck packing. Their team knows exactly how to load everything with precision and care, so your belongings arrive safely and your move goes smoothly. Their website also has helpful tips and services for anyone looking to make the move easier.
Final Thoughts
Packing a moving truck takes planning, patience, and a little strategy. Do it right, and you’ll save yourself from broken furniture, scratched walls, or back-breaking unloads. And if you ever feel like leaving it to the experts, Pads & Dollies Movers are just a call away—ready to take the stress off your shoulders.