How Should You Pack Clothes for a Move?
Aug 31, 2026 / Alyssa Duranty
What is the best way to pack clothes for a move? Pack hanging clothes in wardrobe boxes or on rolling garment racks for local moves, pack folded clothing in labeled boxes or bins, and keep dresser drawers intact only when the furniture can be moved safely. Start by decluttering, pack out-of-season clothing first, and keep enough everyday clothing with you for the first few days after moving.
The best packing method depends on whether clothing is hanging, folded, delicate, bulky, or needed immediately. Additionally, your moving distance, available space, and whether you plan to use storage can affect which supplies and approach make the most sense.
Key Takeaways
- Declutter clothing before packing so you do not move items you no longer wear or need.
- Use wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes, especially for long-distance moves.
- Consider a rolling garment rack for short local moves, if available from a moving provider.
- Pack folded clothing in sturdy, labeled moving boxes or plastic bins.
- Leave clothing in dresser drawers only if the dresser is lightweight enough to move safely.
- Use stretch wrap to keep drawers closed and protect furniture during the move.
- Pack off-season clothing early, then keep everyday items accessible until moving day.
- Carry an essentials bag with a few days of clothing, toiletries, medications, and chargers.
Start by Decluttering Your Clothes
Before packing, sort through your closet, dresser, laundry area, and seasonal clothing storage. Moving is a practical time to decide what you still wear and what no longer fits your lifestyle, size, or new home.
Create separate piles for:
- Keep and move
- Donate
- Sell
- Recycle
- Discard
- Pack later
For example, clothing that fits, is in good condition, and is worn regularly may be worth moving. On the other hand, damaged, unused, or outgrown items may be better candidates for donation, textile recycling, or disposal.
Questions to Ask Before Packing Clothes
- Have I worn this item within the last year?
- Does it fit and feel comfortable?
- Is it in good condition?
- Will I wear it in my new location or climate?
- Do I own a similar item that I wear more often?
- Would someone else be more likely to use it?
Start with out-of-season clothing, special-occasion outfits, and rarely used accessories. This lets you make progress while keeping the clothes you need for daily life available.
For a broader packing plan, see How to Pack for a Move.
How Do You Pack Hanging Clothes for a Move?
The easiest way to pack hanging clothes is to use wardrobe boxes. Wardrobe boxes have a hanging bar that lets you transfer clothes directly from the closet to the box without folding them.
This approach can help reduce wrinkles and keep dresses, suits, coats, blouses, and other hanging garments organized.
Best Options for Moving Clothes on Hangers
Most Public Storage locations sell packing and moving supplies, including wardrobe boxes. Check with your local facility for current availability.
How to Use Wardrobe Boxes
- Assemble the wardrobe box according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Place the hanging bar securely across the top.
- Transfer a manageable group of garments directly from your closet rod to the box bar.
- Place lightweight items, such as folded scarves or pillows, in the bottom if there is room.
- Close and label the box with the destination room and clothing category.
- Keep the box upright during transport.
Do not overfill wardrobe boxes. Heavy loads can make the box difficult to lift and may strain the hanging bar.
How Do You Pack Folded Clothes for a Move?
Pack folded clothes in sturdy boxes, plastic bins, suitcases, or drawers that can be safely transported. Folded clothing is usually easier to pack than hanging garments, but it can still become disorganized if boxes are too large, too heavy, or poorly labeled.
Use medium or large boxes for lighter clothing, such as shirts, sweaters, and linens. However, use smaller boxes for dense or heavy items, including jeans, shoes, and winter clothing.
Best Containers for Folded Clothing
Public Storage recommends using wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes and medium or large boxes for folded clothes. It also recommends placing heavier clothing in smaller containers to keep boxes manageable.
Can You Leave Clothes in Dresser Drawers When Moving?
You may be able to leave clothes in dresser drawers if the dresser is lightweight enough to move safely with the drawers in place. However, remove drawers if they make the furniture too heavy, unstable, or difficult to carry.
For heavier dressers, remove the drawers and transport them separately. This reduces the load for anyone lifting or using a dolly.
How to Move a Dresser With Clothes Inside
If you keep drawers in place, wrap the dresser with stretch wrap to help prevent drawers from opening during transport. Avoid applying tape directly to finished wood or delicate surfaces, as adhesive can cause damage.
Before removing drawers, label them with painter’s tape or a removable note so they can return to the same position in your new home.
How Do You Keep Clothes Fresh in Moving Boxes or Storage?
Pack only clean, completely dry clothing to reduce the risk of odors, mildew, or stains. If clothing will remain packed for several weeks or longer, use clean containers and avoid storing items in damp or poorly ventilated conditions.
You may also add dryer sheets or cedar products to boxes or bins if desired. However, avoid placing scented products directly on delicate fabrics, as they may transfer fragrance or residue.
Tips for Storing Clothes During a Move
- Wash or dry-clean clothing before packing for long-term storage.
- Make sure all garments are fully dry before placing them in boxes or bins.
- Use clean, sturdy boxes or plastic containers with secure lids.
- Avoid packing wet shoes, damp towels, or recently laundered items that have not dried completely.
- Keep clothing off the floor when possible.
- Label containers by season, size, or household member.
- Consider climate-controlled storage for belongings that may be sensitive to major temperature or humidity changes.
If you are storing clothing for an extended period, explore climate-controlled storage to determine whether it is appropriate for your needs.
What Clothes Should You Keep With You on Moving Day?
Keep enough clothing and personal items with you to manage comfortably for several days. This is especially important if your moving truck or shipment arrives later than expected.
Moving-Day Clothing Essentials
Keep this bag or suitcase with you rather than loading it onto the moving truck.
Clothing Packing Checklist
Declutter clothing before packing
Donate, sell, recycle, or discard items you no longer need
Wash and completely dry clothes before long-term packing or storage
Pack off-season and special-occasion clothing first
Use wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes
Use smaller boxes for heavy clothing and large boxes for lightweight items
Label every box by destination room, owner, season, and contents
Keep boxes manageable to lift
Secure lightweight dresser drawers with stretch wrap when appropriate
Remove dresser drawers if the furniture is too heavy or unstable
Pack a suitcase with several days of everyday clothes
Consider climate-controlled storage for sensitive belongings stored long term
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to pack clothes for a move?
The best method depends on the type of clothing. Use wardrobe boxes for hanging garments, sturdy labeled boxes or bins for folded clothes, and a personal suitcase for clothes you will need immediately after moving.
Can I leave my clothes on hangers when moving?
Yes. Wardrobe boxes let you move hanging clothes directly from the closet rod to a portable hanging bar. For short local moves, a rented rolling garment rack may also be an option.
Should I keep clothes in dresser drawers when moving?
You can keep clothes in drawers only if the dresser remains safe and manageable to move. Remove drawers if the furniture is too heavy, unstable, or difficult to carry.
How early should I pack clothes before moving?
Start with clothing you do not need immediately, such as off-season garments, formalwear, specialty clothing, and rarely used accessories. Keep enough everyday clothing available until moving day.
How do I keep clothes from smelling while packed?
Pack clean, fully dry clothes in clean containers. You can use dryer sheets or cedar products for fragrance if desired, but avoid direct contact with delicate fabrics.
Should I use plastic bins or cardboard boxes for clothes?
Both can work. Cardboard boxes are practical for short moves, while plastic bins may be useful for longer storage periods. Regardless of the container, pack only clean, dry clothing and label it clearly.
Is climate-controlled storage good for clothes?
Climate-controlled storage may be helpful for clothing stored long term or items that may be affected by significant temperature or humidity changes. Consider the type of fabric, local climate, and expected storage duration.
Need supplies for your move? Visit a nearby Public Storage location or review the packing supplies information to learn about available boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and other moving materials.
