8 Last-Minute Moving Tips: Quick Solutions for Moving in a Hurry

The process of moving is often different for everyone. Some people start planning months in advance and have every single detail laid out. For others, they need to move rather quickly and there’s only so much time to pack. Of course, some folks simply put it off until the last second.

If you fall into one of the latter two categories, fear not. A successful last-minute move is entirely possible. When it’s moving time, take a breath, and try these eight tips for last minute moving.

8 Packings Tips for Moving Last Minute

1. Make a To-Do List for Moving

Staying organized during a move can be a challenge. When you're moving last minute, it can be even more daunting, even overwhelming at times. Using a checklist is a simple way to stay on track, whether your move is on short notice or weeks in the making.

Try to organize your list based on how quickly you can complete each item. Focus on the things you can do first, then go from there. If you’re not sure what to include, this moving checklist is a great place to start.

Here are some other things to think about:

• Have you arranged for transportation your to your new place?
• What moving supplies will you need?
• What items will you need right away once you move in?
• What items can you purge before you move?
• In what order will you pack your things?

2. Choose the Right Transportation

You'll need the right transportation and on short notice. You might consider using a moving company, but they often get booked weeks or even months in advance. In the case of a last-minute move, usually a DIY solution is the better choice.

Rent a Moving Truck

Renting a moving truck is a time-tested solution for movers. Moving trucks are widely available, often for an affordable price. U-Haul moving trucks are available anytime via the Truck Share 24/7 program, making them a go-to transportaiton solution when you’re short on time.

In fact, you can make a reservation and pick up or return your truck anytime, day or night, by using the U-Haul app. Start a reservation and get moving faster!

Reserve a Portable Moving Container

“Point B” might be “TBD” when you're moving on short notice. U-Box® containers are perfect for situations like this. We'll deliver the containers to your starting point. You pack your belongings, and we'll bring them to a U-Haul storage facility until you figure out your destination.

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3. Get a Helping Hand

Getting friends and family to help you pack will certainly speed up the process. You'll also have an opportunity to spend time with these people before you move away. We just recommend offering them something in return for their troubles – often, lunch and a cold drink will do, but consider cash as well.

If the bribe doesn’t work, there is always Moving Help®. This online marketplace connects you to local, affordable moving companies. You can find Moving Helpers that meet your needs based on overall rating, lowest cost, and services offered.

On moving day, simply pick up your reserved truck or trailer rental, then leave the loading and unloading to Moving Help. Some movers also offer packing and cleaning services, which is a huge time-saver if you have it in your budget.

4. Order Moving Supplies Online

You’ll need moving supplies, and you'll need them quickly. But how do you hunt down moving boxes, packing tape, and packing supplies on such short notice? You likely don’t have time to find free boxes or make several visits to a store.

Don't worry, we have a solution. You can take advantage of same-day delivery when you order moving supplies from U-Haul! This convenient option allows you to shop for moving and packing supplies online and receive your items on the same day.

How Does Same-Day Delivery Work?

A friendly neighborhood delivery driver will pick up your order from a local U-Haul store and deliver it to you. This service is available in most metro areas and on most of our popular products. While you wait for your moving boxes, you can start on another moving task.

5. Make Use of Moving Kits and Moving Box Alternatives

You probably don't have time to pack strategically. That’s where our specialty moving box kits come in. These kits save time and offer last-minute movers a one-click packing solution.

The Easy Pak Box Kit is an excellent choice for kick-starting your packing process. It includes moving boxes, packing materials, packing tape, and a few other packing essentials. Order your kit online and take advantage of same-day delivery so that you can start packing ASAP!

If you find yourself running low on boxes, look around and see what items you can use for packing. Duffel bags, suitcases, laundry baskets, and even garbage bags can be moving box alternatives when you’re in a pinch.

6. Make an Essential Box

You’re moving in a hurry for a reason. Whatever that reason is, you’re likely going to need a few things right after you get to your new home. Unpacking always takes longer than you think, and you don't want to be digging through boxes trying to find your charger or medication.

We suggest putting all your essential items in one box. This includes things like chargers, meds, important documents, and a few changes of clothes. Make sure to label the box as "essential" so you don't lose it in the shuffle.

And don't be too quick to seal up your essentials box with tape. You'll probably think of more things to add as you go.

7. Purge What You Can Ahead of Time

You likely don't need to bring everything you own with you. Truthfully, packing those things will be a waste of time. Ask yourself if you need everything in your home. If not, consider decluttering by donating clothes or other items you no longer want or need.

If you're not feeling your furniture anymore, don't stress about bringing it along. Many local charity groups will happily come and pick it up for you. If you're not completely sure whether to bring your furniture with you, use this guide to make a determination.

8. Pack Room by Room

How are you going to sort all your stuff in such a small amount of time? That's fun part – you’re not going to. Neatly organizing and packing your things like a pro will take too long. Instead, go room by room and simply put items in boxes as neatly as you can.

And instead of running back and forth, set up a portable packing station. Keep the packing tape and other packing materials in a basket or plastic bin and bring it with you to each room.

Another pro tip: start with the small rooms and end with the larger ones. For example, start packing a spare room or home office. Finishing those areas will give you a sense of accomplishment and give you a much-needed boost for the rest of the house. If you start in the kitchen, for example, it might feel like a never-ending task.