Moving across the state — or across the country — isn’t just about boxes.
It’s about what’s inside them: your electronics, memories, furniture, valuables… and your peace of mind.
When you’re relocating long-distance from Maryland, Washington DC, or Northern Virginia, proper packing can make or break your move (literally).
At B&B Movers, we’ve handled hundreds of long-distance relocations, and we’ve seen it all — the good, the bad, and the “oh no, that used to be a lamp.”
So here are 5 packing tips that actually work, tested on real moves, real stuff, and real road trips.
1. Start Early — Like, Really Early
Packing always takes longer than you think — especially when you’re juggling work, family, and logistics.
Why it matters:
- You’ll make better decisions about what to keep or donate
- You’ll avoid rushed, sloppy packing (which leads to damage)
- You’ll have time to gather the right materials — not just whatever’s left at the grocery store
Pro move: Start with the least-used rooms first (attic, guest room, storage). Leave everyday items for last.
2. Invest in the Right Packing Materials
Long-distance moves are tough on your belongings. Between loading, highways, unloading, and possibly storage, your items need real protection — not just wishful thinking.
Must-haves:
- Double-walled moving boxes – especially for books, dishes, or anything breakable
- Bubble wrap & foam sheets – don’t skimp on cushioning
- Furniture blankets & stretch wrap – to protect surfaces from scuffs and moisture
- Packing tape (the good kind) – cheap tape will let you down, literally
- Markers + labels – for clear organization
Pro move: Use small boxes for heavy items (books, tools), large boxes for light ones (pillows, bedding). Don’t reverse that.
3. Label Smart — Not Just “Kitchen”
“Kitchen” doesn’t tell you much when you’re surrounded by 40 boxes.
Go one step further:
- Label room + main contents (e.g. Kitchen – Coffee Maker & Mugs)
- Add fragile tags where needed
- Use color-coded tape or stickers for each room — makes unloading faster
You can also number your boxes and keep a master inventory list.
It may sound like overkill — until you’re hunting for your charger at midnight in a new state.
4. Pack an “Essentials Box” (or Three)
Your stuff will be in transit for a while.
Don’t let your toothbrush, laptop charger, or clean underwear go MIA.
Essentials to pack separately:
- Toiletries
- Medications
- Chargers and devices
- 2–3 days of clothes
- Basic kitchen gear (coffee stuff, snacks, paper plates)
- Important documents (IDs, lease, contracts)
- Pet supplies (if applicable)
Pro move: Keep this box with you — not on the truck.
5. Know When to Call in the Pros
You can pack everything yourself — but that doesn’t mean you should.
If you’re short on time, moving with kids, or just overwhelmed, professional packing services can save your sanity.
At B&B Movers, we offer:
- Full or partial packing
- Custom crating for fragile or high-value items
- Packing materials included
- Organized, labeled, room-ready boxes
It’s not about being lazy — it’s about being smart with your time and protecting what matters most.
Bonus Tip: Don’t Forget the Truck Ride
Even if you pack perfectly, a long-distance move means:
- Bumps
- Turns
- Humidity
- Vibration
- Unexpected delays
That’s why our team at B&B Movers secures everything with professional-grade tie-downs, padding, and load balancing. We treat your belongings like our own — and we never rush the packing just to hit a schedule.
Long-distance moving is never “easy” — but it doesn’t have to be chaotic.
If you:
- Start early
- Use quality materials
- Label like a boss
- Keep your essentials close
- And bring in help when you need it…
…you’ll not only protect your stuff — you’ll protect your peace of mind.
📞 Need help packing for a long-distance move from Maryland or the DMV area?
Contact B&B Movers for expert packing, reliable transportation, and a stress-free move — wherever you’re headed.