People often plan their moves for weeks, sometimes months, before the date arrives. As you prepare for moving day, there are still important tasks to complete. Let’s look at ways to manage the day to make things easier.
1. Put Essential Boxes Aside
Mark your first-night containers. This way, your movers know these boxes, containers, or bags go with you in your vehicle. Put them aside, ideally in your car, so they’re entirely out of the way, and there’s no chance of anyone accidentally putting them with boxes going on the truck.
2. Create an Inventory
Be sure to label all your boxes clearly on each side, but also make a list of everything you’re moving. Take pictures as well. It’ll help you keep track of your possessions and assist you during the unpacking process.
3. Secure Your Little Ones and Pets
Ensure you make arrangements for your small children and pets before moving day. Plan to send pets and children on a one-day retreat to a neighbor’s or sitter’s house. If they remain at your home, ensure they have a “safe room” with a guardian in charge, and the movers know not to enter that room.
It’s a good idea to remove pets and young children from the action to lessen the stress that comes with moving. It is also an excellent idea from a safety standpoint. Children and animals tend to be in the wrong place at the wrong time, potentially slipping out through an open door or getting in the way.
4. Perform a Thorough Home Cleaning
Chances are you’ll have to do a little more cleaning up after the movers depart, but you can get a good chunk of it out of the way by taking care of the following tasks:
- Deep clean carpets and floors so they only need light cleaning after your belongings are gone.
- Wash windows and wipe down excess dust off blinds.
- Wipe down smudges off walls.
- Clean and wash down refrigerator, dishwasher, range, and oven.
- Wipe kitchen and bathroom surfaces clean.
- Clean the toilets and sinks.
- Empty the cabinets, drawers, and closets.
Lastly, bring out the trash and prepare it for the next pickup. Keep extra bags if you discover more trash during the moving process.
5. Meet and Greet Your Movers
As your movers arrive, discuss the project with them and remind them of any unusual challenges they might face. Other things to discuss include any concerns or questions about the move and directives on handling specific items. It’s a good idea to have a conversation so you and your mover are on the same page.
6. Read and Sign Paperwork
Make sure to read all the paperwork thoroughly. Once you’ve done so, sign any remaining documents that need finalizing.
7. Do a Final Walk-Through
Once your movers have loaded your belongings on the truck, do a final walk-through. This way, you can make sure you’ve not left anything behind. In houses, check areas such as the basement, attic, shed, or other storage areas you may inadvertently overlook. In apartments and condos, double-check all designated storage areas that may or may not be adjacent to your unit. Finally, turn off the lights and remove the last of the trash.
Moving Made Easy
Moving has its challenges, but it doesn’t need to be complex. Let us assist you with your move. We’re happy to provide a free quote!
