How to Label Your Boxes for a Smooth Move

Jul 7

When it comes to moving, one of the most overlooked but most important steps is properly labeling your boxes. A few extra minutes with a marker can save you hours of frustration when it’s time to unpack. At City Boys Moving & Delivery, we’ve seen it all and we’re here to help make your move as organized and stress-free as possible.

Here’s our guide to labeling boxes the right way:

1. Be Specific, Not Vague
Instead of writing “Kitchen” on every box with a spoon in it, get more detailed. Try:
✅ Kitchen – Pots & Pans
✅ Kitchen – Spices & Pantry Items
✅ Kitchen – Glassware

It helps you (and us!) know exactly what’s inside and where it belongs.

2. Label on the Top and Sides
If boxes are stacked, top-only labels can be hard to see. Mark the top and at least one side of each box so it’s always visible no matter how it’s placed.

3. Use Color Codes or Stickers
Assign a color to each room: blue for bedroom, red for kitchen, green for bathroom, etc. Use colored markers or tape so boxes are easy to sort and stack by room.

4. Mark Fragile Items Clearly
Boxes with breakable items should be labeled FRAGILE in big, bold letters on multiple sides. This helps our movers (and anyone helping) know to treat it with extra care.

5. Number Your Boxes
Add a number to each box and keep a separate list of what’s in each one. For example:

Box #12 – Master Bedroom – Books
Box #27 – Living Room – DVDs & Games

That way, you can quickly find what you need or check if anything’s missing.

Bonus Tip: Label Priority Boxes
Set aside a few boxes with items you’ll need right away (toiletries, chargers, basic kitchenware, a few days of clothes). Mark them with “Open First” so you’re not digging through everything on day one.

At City Boys Moving & Delivery, we make the moving process easier from start to finish. Whether you’re packing yourself or want us to handle it all, a good labeling system goes a long way.

📦 Need help with your summer move?
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