Moving House in Auckland – A Practical Guide
Moving house is rarely as straightforward as it looks on paper. There are the logistics of finding a new place, coordinating settlement dates, organising movers, and then the actual task of packing up everything you own. This guide covers the practical side – how to plan your packing, how to work out what you need, and how to make the move itself as smooth as possible.
When Should You Start Packing?
Most people start packing too late. A good rule of thumb is to begin four weeks out for a one or two-bedroom home, and six to eight weeks out for a larger property. Start with the things you use least – books, seasonal clothing, decorative items, spare linen – and work towards the everyday essentials you will pack last. Having your boxes and plastic crates delivered at least a week before packing starts means you can get the packing done at your own pace rather than in a rush.
How Many Boxes Do You Need?
Studio or one-bedroom: 30 medium boxes, 10 large boxes, plus 1 to 2 wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes.
Two to three bedrooms: 45 medium boxes, 20 large boxes, 4 wardrobe boxes.
Four bedrooms or more: 60 medium boxes, 30 large boxes, 6 wardrobe boxes. If you are renting plastic crates instead, our crate bundles are sized to these same guidelines – 35 crates for a studio, 45 for a two- to three-bedroom home, and 65 for a larger home. When in doubt, order a few more than you think you need.
Boxes vs Plastic Crates – Which Should You Choose?
Cardboard boxes can be rented or purchased, are easy to label, and work well for just about every type of household item. Our double-walled boxes are heavy-duty and hold up well through a full move.
Plastic crates are more rigid, stackable, and do not require any tape. They interlock securely and sit on trolleys, which makes moving them from room to room much easier. The trolleys come with every crate bundle order at no extra cost.
If you are moving a long distance or putting items into storage, purchasing boxes may make more sense. For a local Auckland move, renting is usually the more cost-effective and practical option.
Packing Tips That Actually Help
- Pack heavy items into smaller boxes. Books, pantry items, and tools should go in medium or small boxes.
- Use larger boxes for lightweight, bulky items – bedding, pillows, cushions, and lampshades.
- Wrap fragile items individually in packing paper or bubble wrap and clearly label the box as fragile.
- Pack one room at a time and label every box with the room it is going to and a short description of the contents.
- Keep everyday essentials – kettle, a few cups, a change of clothes, phone charger, and important documents – in a bag you carry with you, not in a box on the truck.
What to Do With Boxes After Your Move
If you rented your boxes or crates from Kiwi Renta Box, just give us a call when you are done, and we will come and collect them. You do not need to flatten, store, or dispose of anything. If you purchased your boxes, double-walled cardboard boxes can be offered to others who are moving via local Facebook groups, or dropped off at your local recycling centre.
Ready to Get Started?
We deliver moving boxes and plastic crates across urban Auckland, from Orewa to Papakura. All crate bundles and moving packages include free delivery and pickup. You can order online or give us a call.
