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Estimate Packing Time for Your Move

October 20, 2015

Why does it seem that the last 10% of packing can seem like 90% of the job? When estimating the time it will take to pack your apartment, condo or home, you always want to err on the side of more time than you think you’ll need. Even if it seems like an outrageous amount, better to plan to have the time available than be caught short on time when you really need it. So how can you estimate how long it will take to pack your belongings? We are glad you asked – because THAT is what this post is about.

From those intent on packing themselves to those who see the wisdom in hiring a professional to pack their belongings, the bottom line is getting your items packed up in a way that allows for safe transport to the new location. As human beings, we are generally optimistic about our ability to accomplish certain tasks. What we often forget is that there are all sorts of little things that add up over the course of the packing process. And if we are not careful to leave a buffer, we can get stuck needing more time than we budgeted.

Things like running out of packing supplies, the added time to label things properly and pack things well. The time it takes to find used boxes or tape new ones together. The time it takes to move and stack packed items so the boxes are out of the way and still easy to access come moving day.

Three Ways to Estimate Packing Time

Method 1 – Roughly estimate the “worst case” time scenario you can think of. Then add another 50% to that. Yep, we are serious! It

Method 2 – Figure out how long it would take to pack ONE average box – start to finish – Include taping the box together, wrapping the contents, packing the box full, taping it shut and labeling the contents on the outside (top AND end). Then, if you are good at mentally calculating volume, walk around your entire home and estimate how many PACKED boxes per room. Do the same for closets, attic/basement, garage, storage, etc. ADD the boxes together and add 20% to the total (just in case). Then, multiply the number of GRAND TOTAL number boxes by the time per box. Take the total time and add 20% more time to it. NOW you have an approximate number of boxes AND the rough time you will need to pack them!

Method 3 – Unless you have moved several times or are one smart cookie when it comes to estimates like this, it may even take you more time than you calculate.  If you can, it makes sense to pay a professional to pack your house for you. Professional packers are both fast and efficient. They pack your belongings with care and understand how to pack for efficient loading of the truck on moving day and for the safety of your belongings while in transit. As soon as you try a whole house packing service, you’ll see what we mean!

For a quote on packing as part of a move with Cummings Moving Company, request a Free Moving Quote.


Cummings Moving Company | Residential & Small Business Moving & Storage | San Francisco Movers

Cummings Moving Company is a family owned and operated moving & storage company proud of its well-established reputation in San Francisco and throughout the region – reflected in their extended residential, small business and Realtor referrals. The company is a female, minority, and veteran-owned and operated moving company with over 45 years of exceptional client service – spanning the entire country and beyond. For more information about quality, stress-free moving, in San Francisco please call 415-387-4000 or from the Peninsula call 650-629-3000. Request a Free Moving Quote HERE or continue to explore our website and San Francisco Blog.

The advice on our website and blog is provided as a courtesy and is intended for informational purposes only. It is offered as-is with no warranty expressed or implied. We hope it provides you with helpful information that you can use.

Filed Under: Bay Area Movers, Moving Tips - Residential, Moving Tips- Small Business, Planning a Move, San Francisco Movers

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We are the folks that had you handle two moves for us. The first move was a few things from a house in San Francisco along with a very, very full storage area in Santa Rosa. It was flawless!! The next week, your team packed, loaded and delivered (to Oregon) ou… Read more
Jerre R & Deanne R
Your crew was incredible!!! They were efficient and very patient when we were placing furniture in our new house. They had great senses of humor and were fun to work with. Our move was less painful thanks to them!
Colleen H
We used Cummings Moving Company for our last move.  They were superb from beginning to end.  We had an expert foreman and crew who were professional, trustworthy and efficient.  Our property was difficult to access and the actual move a bit complicated and … Read more
Tracy F
Our moving experience exceeded all expectations!! Your staff were fantastic–extremely professional, competent and work done with smiles! We are most grateful for how smoothly the move went–no hassles, no breakage of our belongings, and when the guys left i… Read more
Terry
Thank you for completing our move from Brisbane to Bakersfield yesterday. Your crew was on time, courteous, professional. They made the experience easier! We will certainly recommend you to friends!
Lee & Rebecca - Brisbane
On July 10, 2013, Cummings Moving Company helped move all of the items from my mother’s apartment in San Mateo, CA.  There were several extraordinary things that happened during this move… It was not until July 8 that I was able to confirm the date of … Read more
Catherine K - San Mateo
This is the 3rd time I have used Cummings for a move. Each experience has been great. This last time was excellent, also. The crew was friendly, efficient and helpful. I will recommend your company to my associates.
Dee
Ricardo and his team were very efficient, helpful, and they all had had a good sense of humor. We had high expectations having used Cummings for our moves since Dec 2003, the team exceeded our expectations with their willingness to help, but more importantly… Read more
Pam T
Hi Amy, Your team did an EXCELLENT job of moving my mom.  They were on-time, professional, worked quietly and quickly and did a thorough job.  I was very impressed and would not hesitate using your services again. Thanks so much!
Kathy L
YES – Great Service, a Good Crew, Neat and Very Professional. Thanks,
Jim & Cathy
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San Francisco is our home. Moving residents and businesses is our passion. Your great experience with us as San Francisco movers is our aim - Every Day.
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