Managing Moving Day With Preparation and Planning

Moving day is one of those tasks we all want to get done with as fast as possible. We also don’t want to make mistakes and increase the degree of difficulty.

So when it’s time to move out of one place and into another, it’s best to have a solid, uncomplicated plan to make moving day as easy as it can be.

Preparing for the move

Don’t wait untill the movers show up to pack—do it beforehand.

Label all your boxes, organized by room.

If you are packing items to be loaded onto the moving truck, pack them well. If something breaks because it was loosely packed in newspaper, it probably won’t be the movers’ responsibility.

If the place isn’t cleaned—and you aren’t paying for a cleaner—leave your cleaning supplies unpacked.

Create a moving inventory list

Also, make an inventory sheet. It’s particularly important to note the condition of items that are being moved by the movers, like furniture. Make a crib sheet noting the condition of these items—you’ll be using this when the move is done.

Movers

It’s important to stay while your movers are working. You’ll need to oversee the process and answer questions. Don’t leave until the movers are done. While you’re there, focus on these preparations:

  • Crate your pets. Even the friendliest canine can spook someone who is afraid of dogs, and you don’t want that to happen—especially when they’re carrying your antique armoire.
  • Have some refreshments and snacks ready.
  • Get the bill of lading from the driver. Compare it to your order of service—they should be similar, if not the same. If you have any concerns or questions, address them before you sign off on it. Keep your copy handy.
  • Check the driver’s inventory sheet and compare it with yours. If you disagree with an item’s condition as listed by the driver, make a note of it on the official inventory sheet.
  • Have some cash for tips.

Managing your kids

Managing movers and wrapping up last minute tasks will be more complicated if you also have to watch kids.

If possible, drop them off with a friend or neighbor while the movers are moving.

If not, hire a sitter to keep watch the kids—it’ll be much less exhausting for you.

In Transit

Getting stuck in traffic adds more stress, especially if you have to drive your moving van.

Check the local weather and traffic conditions in advance of your moving day. If it’s an interstate drive, check the Federal Highway Administration website and the routes for information on closures and delays.

Pack some snacks and drinks for the drive.

Last-Minute Looks on Moving Day

  • Go through the house and make sure you didn’t leave anything behind.
  • Check for any damage the movers may have caused. Document the damage, if any occurred.
  • Clean up after the movers—or at least sweep away any debris.

If you moved out of a rental, do a walk-through of your old place with your landlord so you can address any issues or complaints. It’s easier to deal with issues in person, and you won’t be surprised by a call from an angry landlord.

If you weren’t renting, do a walk-through with a REALTOR® to make sure the home is ready for its new owners.

Updated from an earlier version.