How to Pack Hangers When Moving Across the US - Flat Price Moving & Auto Transport

How to Pack Hangers When Moving Across the US

September 25, 2025 / Posted in How-to
Blake Shaw

Bostonian and residential moving and packing expert. Blake Shaw enjoys bar-hopping, music, and writing insightful content.

Hangers might be the unsung heroes of your closet, but when it comes to cross-country moving, they can quickly become a tangled mess if not packed properly. If you are wondering how to pack hangers for a smooth and hassle-free relocation, you’re in the right place! Let’s dive into some practical tips to keep each hanger organized and ready to hang up in your new home.

Hangers in the closet
Learn the best way to pack hangers for your relocation

How to pack hangers for moving? Start by grouping them in bundles of 10-15 and securing them with rubber bands or zip ties. Cover each bundle with a plastic garment bag or large trash bag to keep them clean and tangle-free. For easier transport, you can also place the bundles in a box or lay them flat in a suitcase.

Is It Worth Taking Hangers on a Long-Distance Moving Journey?

When it comes to relocation to a new state, every item you pack needs to justify the space it takes up. This is why you need to estimate the value of household goods before you hire movers, and this applies to clothing holders as well. While they might seem insignificant, they can add bulk to your moving load. So, is it worth taking them along? It depends. If you have high-quality hangers that you’re attached to, it might be worth the extra effort to pack and move them.

Around 85% of plastic hangers end up in landfills every year

However, if they are basic or mismatched, it could be more practical to donate or recycle them before the move and invest in new ones once you arrive at your destination. Ultimately, the decision hinges on the quality and quantity you have and how much space you’re willing to dedicate to them in the moving truck.

If you’ve hired professional long-distance movers, the burden of packing and transporting these extras can be significantly reduced. A moving and auto transport company can efficiently pack and transport your belongings without you having to worry about the logistics.

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Before You Start Packing, Do Some Preparation First

Before you start packing, taking the time to prepare and organize is crucial for a smooth relocation. Taking the time to plan ahead makes the process smoother and ensures that everything is packed efficiently and safely. 

By staying organized, you can steer clear of last-minute relocation chaos, minimize the chance of damage, and make unpacking in your new home much easier. Taking the time to sort through your belongings, gather proper packaging supplies, and put together a packing list can make the entire relocation less stressful and far more manageable.

Sort and See What Is Worth Keeping

Not every hanger is created equal, and there’s no need to bring along ones that are damaged, bent, or simply not useful anymore. Decide which pieces are worth keeping and which ones have seen better days. This will help you to downsize for a move and make your relocation efficient.

Group Each Hanger by Size and Materials 

Once you’ve sorted your hangers, it is time to implement another hack and group them by size and material. Keeping similar clothing racks together will not only make packing and moving easier but also ensure that they stay organized during the relocation. Whether they’re wooden, plastic, or metal, grouping them will save you time when unpacking and setting up your new closet.

Ask Your Cross Country Movers for Advice

Relocating is a complex process that involves careful planning and coordination. From packing up your entire household to car shipping, there are numerous details to manage. That’s why hiring reputable movers, such as Flat Price Auto Transport and Moving, who provide a full range of long-distance moving services, is a smart choice.

Professional movers can provide packing assistance and have the expertise to handle the logistics, ensuring that everything arrives safely and on time. Plus, they can offer valuable advice on what’s worth taking with you, like your hangers, and what might be better left behind. They can also provide tips on the most efficient methods, whether it’s bundling them together, using garment bags, or packing them in boxes to save space.

Colorful plastic hangers
Sort them by size and materials

How to Pack Hangers When Moving? Take a Look at Some of the Most Popular Methods

When it comes to packing hangers for a move, there’s more than one way to get the job done. Whether you’re looking to save space, keep things organized, or protect these garment essentials during the journey, there are several tried-and-true methods to choose from

Some people prefer bundling them together for easy transport, while others opt for garment bags or even specialized boxes. Each method has its own advantages, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific moving needs. Let’s dive into the most popular methods so you can decide which one works best for your relocation.

Plastic Wrap Method 

One of the things that will be on your checklist for the move is all kinds of different packing materials, and most of these materials you can use to pack hangers as well. The plastic wrap method is a simple yet effective way to keep them organized and tangle-free during a move. 

All you need to do is gather a group of hangers, wrap them tightly together with plastic wrap, and voilà! This method not only keeps them together but also protects them from getting bent or damaged in transit. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a quick and easy solution.

Garbage Bag Trick 

The garbage bag trick is another popular method that’s especially useful if you want to keep your clothes from wrinkling. Kill two birds with one stone and pack them all together with your clothing.

Simply group them with clothes still on and slide a large garbage bag over the bottom, pulling it up until it covers the clothes. Tie the bag’s drawstring around the hanger hooks, and you’ve got a portable, ready-to-hang bundle. This method is perfect for saving time and keeping your clothes clean during the relocation.

Tie Them With Rubber Bands or Tape

If you’re looking for a no-fuss approach, tying clothing racks together with rubber bands or taping them is the way to go. Simply gather a small group of hangers, secure them with rubber bands at both ends, or wrap them with tape, and they’re ready for transport. This method keeps them from getting tangled and takes up minimal space, making it a practical choice for any move.

Bunch of rubber bands
Use rubber bands and tie all the racks together.

How to Pack Hangers in a Box

Boxing up hangers is an excellent way to keep them organized and protected. Whether you’re using a specialized box or creating one yourself, this method ensures they arrive at your new home in great condition. If you’re using a regular box, here are some packing tips on how to pack them like a pro:

  • Lay them flat – Start by laying a layer of packing paper or a soft cloth at the bottom of the box. Then, place them flat inside the box, aligning them in the same direction to avoid tangling.
  • Alternate directions – To save space, alternate the direction of the racks as you stack them. This helps to maximize the number of racks you can fit in the box without making it too bulky.
  • Use padding – If the box isn’t completely full, use padding such as crumpled paper or bubble wrap to fill any gaps. This will prevent them from shifting during transit, reducing the risk of damage.
  • Secure the box – Once the box is full, make sure to close it securely with packing tape. Label the box as “Hangers” so you know exactly where they are when you’re unpacking.

Consider Using Cardboard Wardrobe Boxes

Cardboard wardrobe boxes are designed specifically for moving clothes on hangers, making them an ideal choice for your hangers. These tall boxes come with a metal bar across the top where you can easily hang your hangers, keeping your clothes wrinkle-free and your racks neatly organized. It’s a hassle-free way to transport them and clothes without having to take them off the hooks.

You Can Also Create Your Hanger Box

If you don’t have access to a wardrobe box, you can create your own hanger box with a little creativity. Start by finding a sturdy box that’s tall enough to accommodate your hangers. Cut small slits on opposite sides near the top of the box to create a makeshift bar, or use a strong piece of string or rope to secure the racks in place. This DIY option allows you to customize the box to fit your clothing racks perfectly, ensuring they stay secure during the move.

Woman carrying clothes on the hangers
Keep your clothes from wrinkling with this method

How Not to Pack Hangers When Cross-Country Moving

Packing hangers the wrong way can lead to unnecessary headaches and potential damage to your belongings. So if you don’t want to make any mistakes, take a look at some tips on what not to do when boxing them up:

  • Don’t toss them loose in a box – Throwing hangers loosely into a box might seem like a quick fix, but it will only lead to a tangled mess. This approach can damage your hangers and make unpacking a nightmare.
  • Avoid packing with heavy items – Booking them up with heavy items like books or kitchenware can cause them to bend, snap, or become misshapen. Hangers are lightweight and delicate, so they should be packed with fragile items or kept separate.
  • Skip overstuffing bags or boxes – Trying to fit too many hangers into a single bag or box can lead to bent hooks and broken hangers. Overstuffing not only risks damaging the hangers but also makes the packing less organized and harder to manage.
  • Don’t leave clothes on unsecured hangers – If you’re keeping clothes on hangers, make sure they’re securely fastened in a wardrobe box or bag. Leaving them loose can result in wrinkled clothes and tangled hangers, adding extra hassle to your relocation.

Trust the Experts for a Smooth Relocation

When it comes to long-distance moving, every detail counts. From deciding whether to pack hangers to ensuring your car arrives safely, the right approach can make all the difference. A reliable long-distance moving company like Flat Price Auto Transport and Moving can help you navigate these decisions with ease, providing the expertise and support you need for a stress-free experience. If you need a reliable moving and car shipping company, don’t hesitate to contact us today to get a free quote for your move.

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