How to Start Packing When You Don’t Know Your Move Date

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My lease has a few more months before it’s up, but I’ve already decided—it’s time for a change, time to find a new place to call home. In a recent post, I shared how this next chapter feels both exciting and overwhelming. I haven’t decided on the exact location yet, but I know that moving forward is the right step.

So here I am, caught in the strange limbo of wanting to prepare for a move without knowing exactly when or where it’s happening. It’s tempting to wait until everything is finalized, but I’ve learned that there’s a lot I can do now to make this transition smoother. Here’s my approach to packing bit by bit and how I’m getting a head start, even without the full moving picture.

Step 1: Small Wins with “One Closet, One Shelf” at a Time

Instead of diving into a full-on packing frenzy, I’ve committed to a simple rule: one closet at a time, one shelf a day. Focusing on small, manageable areas lets me make steady progress without feeling completely overwhelmed. With each closet, shelf, or drawer I tackle, I’m creating a sense of accomplishment that keeps me moving forward.

Not only is this approach helping me to pack, but it’s also been an excellent chance to reflect on what I want to bring with me to my next space—and what can be left behind.

Step 2: Stock Up on Packing Supplies

Since packing supplies can add up quickly, I’ve decided to gather them gradually. Buying supplies a bit at a time helps me avoid a big, expensive purchase right before moving. This way, I can compare prices, look for deals, and avoid overspending on last-minute items when I’m feeling rushed.

Here’s a list of what I’m picking up along the way:

• Boxes (in various sizes)

• Packing tape and dispenser

• Bubble wrap and packing paper

• Markers for labeling

• Trash bags

  
  

Gathering supplies little by little keeps things low-stress and manageable both financially and logistically. And when moving day finally comes, I’ll be grateful that I’m ready to go—without breaking the bank or stressing about overpriced supplies in a time crunch.

Step 3: Declutter as I Go

Since I don’t know exactly where I’m moving yet, this feels like the perfect time to lighten my load. As I pack each closet and shelf, I’m sorting my belongings into four categories: Keep, Donate, Sell, and Trash.

With each closet or drawer, I’m getting rid of things I don’t want to bring to my next home—and it feels like a relief!

Step 4: Decide What to Pack Now and What to Keep Accessible

Since my move date isn’t set, I’ve decided to start with non-essentials. Here’s what I’m packing now versus what I’m keeping accessible:

Pack Now:

• Out-of-season clothes

• Holiday decorations

• Books and decorative items

• Extra kitchen supplies

Leave Out (For Now):

• Daily essentials

• Cleaning supplies

• Everyday kitchen items

Step 5: Keep Things Organized with Labels

Labeling every box has made a huge difference. On the outside of each box, I note the room each box will go to in the new place (even if I don’t know exactly where that is) and what's in the box.

Step 6: Leave Essentials Right Where They Are

Instead of setting up a separate “Not Packing Yet” zone, I’m simply leaving items I still need in their usual spots. This keeps things looking tidy and avoids piling up essentials in one corner. Since I still have the occasional guest, this approach lets me keep my space functional and welcoming, even as I pack other areas.

Leaving things like my daily toiletries, key wardrobe pieces, and kitchen basics in place helps me maintain a sense of normalcy, too. It’s a simple way to avoid chaos while still making steady progress on the rest of the packing.

Step 8: Research and Plan

While I’m still deciding on my next home, I’m taking this time to research potential neighborhoods and moving companies or options. I haven’t booked anything yet, but having a plan in place is helping me feel more prepared.

Final Thoughts

Packing for a move with so much up in the air can feel like a balancing act, but taking small steps day by day is making it manageable. With every closet and shelf I organize, I feel closer to the fresh start I’m working toward. So here’s to tackling one space at a time, letting go of what no longer serves us, and getting ready for wherever life takes us next.