How to Label Moving Boxes to Make Unpacking Easier

May 27, 2025

How to Label Moving Boxes to Make Unpacking Easier

Spend less time hunting through boxes, and more time settling in.

Introduction

Packing is only half the job — the real challenge is knowing where everything goes when it’s time to unpack. A clear, consistent labelling system saves you hours of stress, broken items, and misplaced essentials.

Here’s how to label your moving boxes properly so unpacking is fast, efficient, and frustration-free.

Step 1: Label Every Box — On More Than One Side

Don’t just write on the top. Always label at least two adjacent sides so it’s easy to read no matter how it’s stacked.

What to Include:

Room name (e.g. Kitchen, Bedroom 1)
Short contents description (e.g. Plates, Linen, Tools)
Special handling if relevant (e.g. Fragile, Heavy, This Side Up)

Step 2: Be Consistent With Your Format

Whether you're handwriting or using printed labels, consistency is key. For example:

Label Example:

Room: Kitchen
Contents: Plates, Glasses
Notes: Fragile – This Side Up

You can use colour coding (one colour per room), numbers (Box 1 of 3), or a spreadsheet to track items if you want more structure — but even basic clarity goes a long way.

Step 3: Use Bold Markers or Labels

Thin pens fade or smudge. Use a bold permanent marker or pre-printed labels for high visibility.

Optional Add-On:

Fragile stickers
Colour tape or room-specific stickers
QR code labels (for digital inventory fans)

Step 4: Create an “Unpack First” System

Label certain boxes as priority (e.g. Unpack First – Kitchen Basics, Open First – Bedroom Essentials). These should include daily-use items like bedding, toiletries, and basic cookware.

Need help planning what to include?
See: What to pack in your first-night essentials box

Step 5: Don’t Forget Special Items

For electronics, artwork, tools or fragile items, add clear handling instructions:

“Keep Upright”
“Do Not Stack”
“Fragile – Glass Inside”

Combine with the correct boxes:

Final Tip: Pack and Label by Room

Don't mix items from multiple rooms in one box. That makes labelling harder and unpacking more frustrating. If you stick to one-room-per-box, your move-in will be much smoother.