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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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What an awesome team. I can’t say enough about this company. They have great customer service and support. I have used them twice. The second move was quite complicated. It  involved multiple locations, donations, packing and crating valuables. From star… Read more
Anne D - San Francisco, CA
Your crew was great and our overall moving experience was as easy and stress-free as one could hope. The guys were quick, efficient, professional, and courteous. If/When we ever move again, we will definitely call Cummings. Thank you!
Kate G - San Francisco & Pleasanton
Amy, your movers were excellent.  There were a couple of very heavy furniture pieces that they successfully negotiated into my new home.  Thank you for your professionalism.
Therese B
Just wanted to let you know that the move went so well today, thanks to your crew. The three men (sorry, I didn’t get each of their names) worked so efficiently and it was a difficult move out of an old SF apartment with two long flights of steep stairs. They … Read more
Barbara - San Francisco
Your moving crew was great — Polite, helpful, and not a wasted moment, coming in $300 under estimate for time.  I would certainly recommend you to anyone planning a move.  Thanks to them for their good work.
Elizabeth C
Amy and Enrique, I want to thank you for your professionalism and courtesy and for making our move a lot easier. Everything you said you’d do went smoothly. The guys where exactly on time in Crockett. They are very courteous and, most importantly, very profe… Read more
Arthur C
Thank you so much for the follow up, everything went so well and I’m very happy with the service, it’s A+ all around from the estimated to the ladies that answered the phone when I had questions and all the hard working movers that came to my house. I hope… Read more
Tiffany
We we’re really impressed with your crew. First class all the way!!
Amelia S - San Mateo & San Francisco
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
Hello Amy & Enrique, The moving crew was excellent. They were thoughtful, handled my things very carefully and made moving so much easier. I would also like to say that Megan at the office is great. I was terribly disorganized before and after my last-minute m… Read more
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FROM OWNERS AMY & ENRIQUE

“As owners, we are hands-on. Our ability to deliver excellent service as San Francisco movers comes from our commitment to both customer and employee. Through regular training, supervision, competitive compensation, daily attention to excellence, and deep care for our customers and their belongings, we create an environment where top-level service is second nature."

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.
-Amy Messinger & Enrique Palos

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