Clothes are one of the easiest categories to pack for a move — but they’re also one of the easiest to get wrong. Overfilled boxes, wrinkled formal wear, and shoes mixed with clean clothes are all avoidable with the right approach. This guide covers the best methods for packing every type of clothing for a Brisbane house move, from everyday casuals to formal suits.
The best methods for packing clothes when moving
- Wardrobe cartons — tall boxes with a hanging rail for suits, dresses, and formal wear. Available in our packing material bundles.
- Rolling — ideal for casual clothes (T-shirts, jeans, activewear). Saves space and reduces creasing.
- Folding flat — for formal shirts and structured items. Fold neatly and layer with tissue paper for delicate fabrics.
- Existing luggage — use suitcases and duffel bags for bulky items like jumpers, jackets, and shoes.
What to pack in wardrobe cartons
Wardrobe cartons (also called wardrobe boxes) are tall cardboard boxes with a built-in metal hanging bar. They allow your hanging clothes to travel without folding — arriving at your new home wrinkle-free and ready to re-hang. Ideal candidates include:
Wardrobe cartons are available in our packing material bundles starting from $258. If you need Expert Kitchen Prep ($599 fixed) at the same time, we can combine services.
- Suits and blazers
- Dresses and formal wear
- Button-up shirts
- Delicate or easily creased fabrics
- Items on thick wooden or padded hangers
What NOT to pack in a box with clothes
Avoid packing the following with clothing items — they can cause damage in transit:
- Shoes with dirty soles (wrap separately)
- Jewellery or accessories (these should travel in a personal bag)
- Liquids such as perfume, dry shampoo, or laundry products (pack separately, sealed in a zip-lock bag)
- Sharp accessories like belt buckles without wrapping
Tips for moving clothes interstate
For an interstate move — whether Brisbane to Adelaide or another long-distance route — clothes need more protection than for a local move. Key adjustments:
- Empty all drawers — loose clothing in a drawer can shift and damage the furniture’s joinery over long distances
- Use double-walled boxes for packed clothing
- Wrap delicate items in tissue or packing paper
- Seal wardrobe carton tops securely with packing tape
- Label each box with your name and destination room in addition to contents
Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to pack clothes in bags or boxes?
Bags (duffel bags, suitcases, bin liners) are cheaper than buying extra boxes and are ideal for soft clothing. For delicate or wrinkle-sensitive items, wardrobe cartons offer the best protection.
Can I leave clothes in my drawers during the move?
For a local move, yes — leaving lightweight clothes in drawers is generally fine, as long as the drawer doesn’t make the piece of furniture too heavy to lift safely. Remove heavy items like jeans and shoes. For interstate moves, empty all drawers.
How many boxes does a full wardrobe need?
A typical wardrobe of casual clothes fills 3–5 medium boxes. Add 1–2 wardrobe cartons for hanging items. A large wardrobe with multiple categories may need 6–8 boxes total.
How do I pack delicate or formal clothing?
Use wardrobe cartons for formal wear that must remain hanging. For folded delicate items (silk, linen), wrap in tissue paper before placing in a box. Don’t overfill boxes — pressure causes creasing.
What should I pack last and first when moving?
Pack the clothes you need for moving day and the first few nights in a separate overnight bag — this should be loaded last and unloaded first. Everything else can be packed and loaded in any order.
For more moving advice, see our What Not to Pack When Moving House and How to Disassemble Furniture for Moving. Ready to book? Visit our pricing page, browse our service areas, or request a quote online. Call (07) 3472 7573 seven days a week.