So, get yourself some coloured permanent markers and clear tape, and consider downloading printable label templates or try making them yourself. Then, select the labelling system that best suits your needs.

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Colour code labels

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Assign unique colours to each room while labelling your moving boxes to make the unpacking process smoother. You can write the name of the room, like "Kitchen" in yellow and "Living room" in blue, so that we know where each box belongs. Use waterproof marker pens to prevent smudging, and reinforce your colour coding by sealing the boxes with the corresponding tape.

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Labels by room

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Ok, we have already covered the room-by-room packing system. It is proven that it makes the unloading and unpacking simply a breeze, even if you use only one colour for writing the labels. Ensure that you tape the same label on each side of the box and even place one on top of the packaging. Again, this will facilitate us a great deal when trying to get your belongings to the right room. There is nothing more inconvenient then circling around a large box to locate its label when you are strapped for time or worse, trying to move it, because the neatly written sign is on the other side.

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Priority code labels

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This labelling system could combine a couple of house removals concepts. For instance, it could determine which box goes first in the moving truck and which is loaded last. This way, we will be able to prioritise what items are coming off the vehicle first and get moved in their designated room. The other idea behind this system is to clearly state and remind yourself which box is a priority in terms of getting it unpacked first.

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So, you can label a box with an “H” for high priority, with an “M” for medium priority and with an “L” to emphasise its low level of priority. This labelling method will prevent you from unpacking your wedding dress first, while your kids’ school books are still buried somewhere in the heap of boxes. To pack books correctly, put flat stacks of regular paperbacks together, or place them standing on their spines so that the paper edges face upwards. Packing them with the paper edges facing downwards will cause the pages to bend. You can also pack books using a combination of methods in one box, as long as you make sure not to put them in awkward positions.

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Number code labels

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With the number code labeling system, you make a list of what items are in each numbered box and which numbers go with each room. This makes it easy to find what you need when you're unpacking. For example, if you want to make tea, you'll know to go to box number 3 because it's listed in your inventory as having the kettle in it. To make sure it goes in the right room, it's a good idea to write "Kitchen" in red next to box 3.

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Labels by items

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Packing your possessions by items works only in a partial way. And the method cannot replace other labelling systems. For instance, you can group soft items together like bedding, throw overs, rugs, and cushions in a box and pack your kids’ winter clothes in a large bin bag.

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Another example is your camping equipment that can be packed nicely and labelled as such with an added “L” for low priority. All small electrical appliances that need to be handled with care can also go in a designated box. But whether you decide to pack the hair dryer and the table fan together with the coffee maker and the juicer is another matter. Just find what works for you by weighing out the drawbacks and benefits of this labelling system. The key to it is to itemise clearly the contents of each box.