Moving Day Tips – Let’s Make Your Last-Minute Prep Easy!

August 20, 2018 / Posted in Moving Basics
Steven Rogers

Apart from sharing Captain America's name, our freelance writer Steven is also a big fan of moving, history, and geography.

After all the time has passed and all the things you’ve done, the big moment is finally around the corner. The moment of the move has come. Alas, there are many more things to be done and tasks to be tackled, so here are a few moving day tips to aid you in staying on top of it all.

boxes-neatly-packed-and-labeled
There are a few ways you can avoid being stressed

Moving Day Tips and Tricks In One Place

We’ll assume here that you’re not going through a case of last-minute moving, for that’s another pair of shoes altogether. Let’s say you organized in time, booked moving services, made sure that all your belongings are prepared for transport, and labeled the crates. It seems that the only thing that remains is to haul the packages to the truck, and you’re off the hook until you arrive at your new home. Well, not quite.

The first useful general advice would be to wake up early on the day of the relocation. Next, you should make sure that your bag with essentials (snacks, water, toothpaste, etc.) is packed and ready and that your phone is fully charged. You might also want to wear light clothes that you’re comfortable in since a lot of tasks await.

A useful tip is to be in contact with the movers all along so that you can learn what should be done, how it should be done and in which order. What are the best-sized boxes, for example. And, of course, when they will arrive.

A BETTER WAY FOR MOVING! GET A QUOTE

One of the Most Important Tips for Moving Day – Don’t Lose Your Cross-Country Moving Checklist

You may be utterly sick of it by now, but your checklist is still your best friend in this process. Run through it once more, and make sure that the “every I is dotted and every T crossed.” If that’s not the case, the early start might allow you to do it a bit more leisurely.

Now that we have covered the basics, let’s get on to the more detailed stuff.

couple packing boxes
Get up early to finish packing and other things

During Long-Distance Moving, Spare the Kids and Pets From All the Fuss

With all the rush and excitement about relocation, all the boxes lying around and impeding every step, and mostly everything stashed away, it’s no small wonder that you’re freaked out. So you can only imagine how your kids and/or pets are feeling. With their life routine disrupted for a while now, and unable to do what they like the way they’re used to, you might be in for additional problems, because the moving day is just the tip of the iceberg of the whole stressful process.

So consider leaving children and furry friends with your friends or family members, or hiring a sitter to spend time with them and entertain them until all the ado is over.

family boxing up items
Be sure that kids and pets are taken care of

Wrap Up Your Home – Pack the Forgotten Stuff

The moment has now come for one final tour around your old home and some last-minute packing. Something inevitably escaped your attention in previous days and weeks. So sift through the rooms, for you’d be surprised what things are commonly forgotten when people pack. Yes, personal documents are among them.

House-Related Phase – Take Pictures

In case you’re renting a home, we guess that you’d want your deposit back. So during the final tour around, photograph everything to avoid any subsequent troubles with your landlord. Your word may be sound, but pictures speak a thousand words if any claim is made that a large dent in the wall is of your making, when in reality, it’s not.

Other candidates for the photoshoot should be utility meters. That way you’ll have irrefutable proof in case your bills come to steep.

parents and kid in unpacked room
Be sure to do a tour around the home before moving out

Call Friends to Help You With Boxes

Invite your friends to help you with the move. Not only can you delegate some of the work, but you’ll also get to spend some more time with them before going away. After all, your relocation means that you’ll have to say bye to friends.

So arm yourself with a reasonably good mood, but also with favorite snacks and that Gatorade with a new flavor that you never got to taste together properly. Arrange everything so that your last experience before going away is a memorable one.

a couple carrying a couch
Friends can help you out a lot

Make Yourself Useful When the Long-Distance Movers Arrive

When the movers get to your place, all should be set for loading into the truck. Now is the moment for the most important questions to ask moversthat you maybe forgot to ask before.

Make sure that they do all the heavy lifting, and also the handling of fragile stuff. If the need arises, you might even get moving boxes from them. You may do the carrying of lighter crates (that’s where the comfortable clothes advice kicks in). Listen to the professionals, though. If anybody knows how to pack a moving truck, it’s them. With everything packed and stacked, you’re all set for a trip to the new place.

Actual Move-In Day Tips – Appreciate the Workers From a Long-Distance Moving Company

There’s just one thing that remains, and it’s what more and more people are asking – how to tip movers? It would be best if you did it, without hesitation. It’s becoming a standard in the industry to give each mover a few dozen bucks as an appreciation of a job well done.

girl holding a to do list next to a pile of boxes
Be sure all is ready for a new place

If You Wish More Than Helpful Tips for Moving, Consider Getting Professional Packing Services From Cross-Country Movers

So there you are, ready to travel to a new home. Finally, when hiring a company to help you move, it might be a good idea to opt for one that offers services of packing, just in case you run into problems with this item or that. Storage should also be on the table, as well as auto transport. Take all details into account when choosing the right mover for you.

FAQ

What Are the Best Ways to Prepare for Moving Day?

The best ways to prepare for relocation day include: creating a detailed moving checklist, researching and hiring a reputable moving company, scheduling your move well in advance, purging any items you no longer need or use, properly labeling and packing your belongings, arranging for the transfer of utility and service accounts, and preparing your home for the movers by removing any obstacles and securing delicate items. It’s also important to have a plan in place for securing your valuables, such as important documents and personal items, during the move.

How Can I Make Moving Day Less Stressful?

By hiring a reputable and experienced moving and auto transport company and communicating with your long-distance movers about any specific needs or concerns you can make your move less stressful.  You can also reduce stress by being well-rested, staying organized and focused, and allowing for plenty of time to complete the move. Additionally, it may be helpful to have a support system in place, such as friends or family members who can assist with the move and provide emotional support.

What Should I Do First on Moving Day?

On a relocation day, it’s important to prioritize tasks to ensure a smooth and organized move. Firstly, you should do a final walk-through of your old place to ensure you haven’t forgotten anything. Pack an “essentials” box with items you’ll need immediately in your new home, such as toiletries, towels, and bed linens. Make sure all your boxes are labeled properly and fragile items are properly packed. You should also disconnect and defrost your refrigerator if applicable, and disconnect any electronics. Finally, before the movers arrive, confirm the moving details such as their arrival time and payment arrangements.

What Are the Essentials I Should Have On Hand on Moving Day?

Your relocation essentials include items like water and non-perishable snacks to keep you hydrated and fed throughout the day, a toolkit with basic tools such as a screwdriver, hammer, and pliers to help with last-minute disassembly, and a first-aid kit in case of any injuries. Additionally, you should have a box labeled “essentials” that contains items you’ll need immediately in your new home, such as toiletries, towels, bed linens, and a change of clothes. Don’t forget to also have your phone and its charger, as well as important documents such as your driver’s license and relocation paperwork.

What Should I Do to Protect My Belongings During the Move?

To protect your belongings during a move, it is recommended to pack items carefully using high-quality packing materials such as bubble wrap and strong boxes. Label boxes clearly and make an inventory of their contents to ensure easy identification and organization. Fragile items should be marked as such and placed in securely cushioned boxes. It’s also a good idea to consider purchasing insurance for your move to protect against any loss or damage to your belongings during transportation. Additionally, consider hiring professional cross-country movers to handle the move, as they are experienced in handling and transporting items safely.

How Can I Save Money on Moving Day?

There are several ways to save money on a relocation day. First, compare quotes from different moving companies and choose the most cost-effective option. Second, consider doing a part of the packing process yourself. Next, declutter your home before the relocation day, as you’ll only be paying to move items you actually want. Finally, be mindful of move-in dates and try to avoid weekends, as these are usually more expensive. you can also consider renting a truck instead of getting long-distance moving services, but keep in mind that it won’t be as safe and efficient.

How Can I Stay Organized on Moving Day?

To stay organized, make a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done, pack items by room and label the boxes clearly, have essentials such as toiletries and bed linens easily accessible, and assign tasks to family members or friends to ensure nothing is missed. It’s also helpful to have a designated area for items that you need to take with you and to have a plan for unpacking at your new home.

How Can I Hire Reliable Movers?

Hiring a reliable moving and car shipping company is crucial for a successful move. To find a reliable company, start by asking for recommendations from friends and family, researching potential movers online, and reading reviews from previous customers. When talking to cross-country movers, ask about their experience, licensing, and insurance, and ask for a written estimate. It’s also important to confirm the dates and times of the move and ensure they have the proper equipment and resources to handle your specific needs. Before choosing a mover, make sure to have a clear understanding of their long-distance moving services, fees, and policies.

 

How Can I Make Sure All My Belongings Arrive at My New Home Safely?

Making sure all your belongings arrive at your new home safely requires proper planning and preparation. To ensure the safe arrival of your items, start by packing them carefully, using high-quality packing materials, and labeling boxes clearly. During the move, make sure to communicate with the long-distance movers about any special handling instructions or items that need extra care. It’s also a good idea to take photos of your items before the move and to keep valuables and important documents with you during the transportation. Finally, make sure to inspect your belongings upon arrival and immediately report any damages to the movers.

What Are Some Tips for a Smooth Transition to My New Home?

Some tips for a smooth transition include: preparing a relocation schedule and checklist, getting to know your new neighborhood, unpacking and organizing your belongings as soon as possible, setting up utilities and services in advance, and reaching out to your new community by attending events or joining local groups. It’s also helpful to take time to settle into your new home, by making it feel like your own by decorating and personalizing your space. Lastly, don’t be afraid to reach out to friends, family, or professionals for help or support during the transition process.

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