Whether you're moving from a studio apartment or a large house, you need to prepare your home and yourself before your movers arrive to make sure the process goes as smoothly as possible. Follow these tips for success.
Keep a List
One of the most important things you can do to help your moving day be a success is to keep yourself organized. Even if you haven't kept a moving notebook earlier in the process, write down a list of tasks you need to handle on moving day.
Include everything you think of, no matter how small or obvious you think it is. Moving can be stressful, and you'll have a lot going on once your movers arrive, so let your list be your brain for the day. Give yourself at least a few days before your move to work on your list so you can add tasks as you think of them.
Make Arrangements for Your Children and Pets
Your kids and pets will likely be just as excited about the move as you are. You and your movers will have a much easier time if little ones and furry friends aren't underfoot during the moving process. Make arrangements for your pets and children to stay with a family member or sitter if possible.
If your pets must be with you on moving day, make sure you have a sturdy crate available. Animals often get nervous during the bustle of moving, so keep them confined to protect both them and your movers. The last thing you want to do on moving day is scour the neighborhood for a lost dog or cat.
Stay Organized
Group your boxes and furniture according to what room they'll go in at your new home. Organized boxes make it easier for your movers to decide how best to pack the truck for quick and easy unloading.
Inspect every box to make sure it's closed securely and labeled clearly so your movers won't have to juggle boxes around to figure out where you want them. Attach furniture pads to any items that could easily get scratched or damaged unless you've arranged for your movers to bring protective supplies.
Prepare Your Current and New Homes
Make sure your current and new homes are both prepared for your movers to keep everyone safe and allow them to work efficiently. Clear hallways and walkways through the maze of boxes and furniture before you go to bed the night before your move.
Assess your outdoor walkways as well. Clear toys, yard waste, and any snow or ice the night before or early in the morning before your movers arrive.
Most movers wear protective shoe covers or lay down floor coverings before they begin. If you haven't discussed this service with your movers ahead of time, try to have plastic drop cloths or old towels or sheets you don't care about ready to protect the carpet and hard floors in both houses.
Keep a bag of essentials including clothes, necessary toiletries, basic cleaning supplies, a first aid kit, toilet paper, and non-perishable snacks away from your other belongings so you don't have to rummage through boxes to find something you need right away.
Do a Final Walkthrough
Once the last box is packed and your movers are getting ready to hit the road, take a last look around your old home to make sure you don't leave anything behind. This is particularly important if you're moving long-distance since it'll be difficult or even impossible to collect missing belongings after you leave.
If you're leaving a rental, be sure to return your keys to your landlord before you head out.
O'Sullivan Moving & Storage Co. is a family-owned and -operated business based in Royal Oak, Michigan. We are licensed, insured, and help customers with packing and moves both large and small.
Contact us today with any questions you have about the moving process or to get a quote.