Everything you need to know before deciding whether to let the professionals pack your home
Packing for a house move can quickly go from manageable to overwhelming. What starts as “just a few boxes” often turns into weeks of wrapping, taping, labelling, and last-minute stress — especially when you realise just how much needs sorting.
That’s where a professional packing service comes in.
For many people moving house in Swindon and across Wiltshire, booking a removals company is a given — but deciding whether to include packing often raises more questions than answers.
At A. Luckes & Son, we’ve handled thousands of moves since 1996, and we’ve seen firsthand the difference a well-executed packing service can make. In this guide, we’ll explore the pros and cons, pricing, what’s included, who benefits most, and how the process works — so you can make a decision based on facts, not guesswork.
What Exactly Is a Packing Service?
A packing service is an add-on provided by professional removals companies where trained staff come to your home and pack your belongings safely and systematically. This can be done:
- A day or two before moving day, or
- On the day of your move (for smaller homes or last-minute moves)
It typically includes:
- Supply of professional-grade boxes and materials
- Protection of fragile items using industry-standard techniques
- Labelling for efficient unpacking
- Time-saving, stress-reducing support
Some services offer:
- Full packing: Everything in your home is packed
- Partial packing: Just the kitchen, fragile items, or selected rooms
- Export wrapping: Specialist packaging for international moves or long-term storage
- Unpacking service: Optional unpacking and placement of items in your new home
Who Uses Packing Services (and Why)?
- Busy Professionals – No time to pack between meetings and work commitments.
- Families with Young Children – Let professionals handle it while you focus on your family.
- Retirees and Downsizers – Supportive service during emotional or physical transitions.
- Last-Minute Movers – Quick turnaround when time is limited.
- People Moving Valuable or Fragile Goods – Minimises risk of damage during the move.
What Does a Packing Service Include?
Materials Supplied
- Sturdy double-walled boxes
- Heavy-duty tape and dispensers
- Bubble wrap and wrapping paper
- Tissue paper for delicate finishes
- Mattress bags, sofa covers, and wardrobe cartons
- Custom crates (if needed for art or instruments)
Packing Techniques Used
- Wrapping glass and china individually
- Cushioning boxes for impact protection
- Layering soft items (like towels) to pad breakables
- Filling voids to stop movement in transit
- Labelling and sealing boxes securely
Areas Covered
- Kitchen and dining items
- Bedrooms (clothes, linen, decor)
- Living areas (books, ornaments, electronics)
- Lofts, garages, and sheds (where accessible)
- Artwork, mirrors, and musical instruments
How Much Does It Cost?
Packing services are generally priced based on:
- The volume of items to be packed
- The number of team members required
- Any specialist packaging or handling needed
Typical Local Pricing Estimates:
- 1-bed flat: £150 – £250
- 2-bed flat/house: £200 – £300
- 3-bed house: £300 – £450
- 4-bed+: £450 – £750+
- Fragile-only packing: From £75
Please Note: These are typical ranges — we always recommend booking a free survey for an accurate quote.
What’s Not Usually Included?
Most companies will not pack the following:
- Hazardous materials (paint, gas, solvents)
- Perishable or frozen food
- Valuables, cash, jewellery, or personal paperwork
- Pets or live plants (though we can advise you)
Self-Packing vs Professional Packing
| Factor | Self-Pack | Professional Packing |
|---|---|---|
| Time required | High | Low |
| Risk of breakage | Medium–High | Low |
| Cost | Low | Medium |
| Organisation & labelling | Varies | High |
| Stress level | High | Low |
| Materials included | No | Yes |
| Expertise in fragile items | No | Yes |
What to Expect Before, During and After
Before
- We’ll book a removals survey (in-person or video) read our article
- You’ll receive a detailed quote outlining services and costs
- Packing day(s) will be scheduled before moving day
On Packing Day
- Our crew arrives with all materials
- Rooms are packed one at a time
- Fragile items are carefully wrapped and labelled
- Boxes are sealed and stacked, ready for removals
After the Move
- We can help with unpacking if booked
- We collect used boxes and wrapping (optional)
- Our office remains available for any follow-up support
Insider Tips from the Team
“The kitchen is almost always the hardest room to pack. If you’re on the fence, even booking a kitchen-only packing service can make your move much easier.” – Alec, Senior Removals Foreman.
“Label everything — and not just the room. A box marked ‘kitchen – tea, mugs, kettle’ is going to help a lot on moving day.” – Sally, Packing Specialist.
“Try not to leave packing until the last week. It always takes longer than people expect — especially if you’ve been in the same home for years.” – Max, Removals Consultant.
Why Trust A. Luckes & Son?
- Over 25 years in the removals industry
- Trained, uniformed staff with packing experience
- Insurance-backed and locally trusted
- All materials supplied as part of the service
- Flexible, family-run and highly rated
Get a Free Quote with or without Packing
Let us create a tailored removals plan that suits your move, budget, and schedule. Whether you want full packing, fragile-only protection, or just materials, we’ll guide you through every step.
