Do You Unpack at the New Home or Just Pack?

Do You Unpack at the New Home or Just Pack?

Last updated: October 2026

Both. We unpack on request. Unpacking is also included in white glove, where we handle every step from the first box to the last.

Packing gets most of the attention, but unpacking is the part that drags on. Plenty of people move in and are still living out of boxes three months later, stepping around a tower of cartons marked "misc" in the hallway every morning and promising themselves they'll get to it this weekend. Sound familiar? If that sounds like you, you have a few options.

Your three options

Full packing, you unpack. We pack the whole home and move it. You unpack on your own schedule. This is the right fit if you like putting your own things away.

Full packing, plus unpacking on request. We pack the whole home, move it, and unpack at the new place. Just ask when you book.

White glove. We pack and load. Then we unload, unpack, and arrange everything. You let us in, and when we leave, you can start living in your new place.

What unpacking includes

When we unpack, the boxes come open and your things come out. Every box is labeled by room and contents when it's packed, so the crew knows exactly where each one goes at the new home. Dishes go into cabinets, clothes go into closets, and books go onto shelves.

The empty boxes and packing paper don't stay behind. We clean up our own packing materials after we've moved you in, always.

When white glove is the right call

White glove is for people who don't want to touch anything at either end. It's a good fit for busy professionals and families with young kids. Seniors who'd rather rest while we work like it too. Read white glove moves in luxury high-rises and is white glove moving worth it.

With a standard move, the customer has everything packed and ready, and we provide the labor. With white glove, we do everything. Our guide on white glove vs. standard moving lays out the difference.

Senior moves

Unpacking makes a big difference on a senior move. A familiar home set up on the first day helps a lot. Packing is the most-used add-on for our senior moves, and we unpack on request. Read do you help with packing for seniors.

How it's priced

Packing and unpacking are hourly, like our moves, with our standard 2-hour minimum. Materials are itemized separately. Read how much does full packing cost.

Tips if you're unpacking yourself

Start with the kitchen and the bedroom. Those get you through the first few nights.

Use the labels. Every box says where it goes and what's inside.

Unpack one room at a time. Finishing a room feels better than starting five.

Break down boxes as you go. It keeps the floor clear.

Unpacking is covered on our full packing service and white glove moving service pages, under moving and storage and our moving services.

Call (773) 275-4100 or email info@wcmoving.com, and tell us how much help you want at the new place.