Moving day can be hectic, but with a little preparation, it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. The secret to a smooth move? Getting your home ready in advance so everything is organized, efficient, and stress-free when the movers arrive.
Start with a Solid Game Plan
The first step in preparing for a smooth move is creating a house moving to-do list.
Write down everything you need to tackle before moving day and break it into smaller tasks you can handle over time. This way, you’re not scrambling to do everything at the last minute. Your list might include decluttering, packing, notifying utility companies, and coordinating with your movers.
Declutter Before You Pack
Don’t waste time or money moving things you no longer need. Go through your home room by room and decide what to keep, toss, or donate.
If you’re tight on time, focus on the bigger items first, like furniture and appliances. Getting rid of unnecessary stuff can significantly cut down your house moving costs since movers often charge based on the size or weight of your load.For items you’re unsure about, ask yourself: “Have I used this in the last year?” If the answer is no, it’s probably time to let it go. Decluttering not only makes packing easier but also gives you a fresh start in your new home.
Create a Moving Day Essentials Box
Packing everything away is a rookie mistake, you’ll need access to some essentials on moving day and in the first 24 hours at your new place.
Pack a box with items like toiletries, medications, chargers, snacks, and a change of clothes. Keep this box with you rather than loading it onto the moving truck. Having these basics handy will save you from digging through boxes later.
Label Everything Clearly
As you pack, make sure each box is labeled with its contents and the room it belongs to. Trust me, your future self will thank you when it’s time to unpack.
Go the extra mile and use color-coded stickers or markers for different rooms, like blue for the kitchen and red for the bedroom. This makes it easier for the movers to know where everything goes and saves you time when setting up your new space. For fragile items, label the boxes as “FRAGILE” and let your movers know so they handle them with care.
Protect Your Floors and Walls
If you’re moving heavy furniture or large appliances, protect your home from potential damage. Lay down old blankets, towels, or moving pads to shield your floors from scratches. Use corner protectors or foam to safeguard your walls and doorways. These small steps can save you from costly repairs later, especially if you’re renting and need to get your security deposit back.
Disconnect and Prep Appliances
Large appliances like refrigerators, washers, and dryers need extra attention before moving. Empty and clean out your fridge at least 24 hours in advance, leaving the doors open to prevent odors. Disconnect and drain washing machines, and secure cords and hoses with tape. For gas appliances, check if you need professional help to disconnect them safely.
Take Inventory of Your Belongings
Before the movers arrive, create a detailed inventory of everything you’re taking with you. This is especially helpful if you’re hiring a moving company and need to file an insurance claim in case anything gets lost or damaged. Use your phone to snap pictures of valuable items for extra documentation.
Prepare for the Movers
On moving day, clear pathways to make it easy for the movers to navigate your home. Move small furniture, rugs, or anything else that might get in their way.
If you have kids or pets, make arrangements to keep them out of the movers’ path, they’ll stay safe, and the process will go much faster.
Let the movers know about any special instructions, like fragile items or furniture that needs disassembling. Being upfront and communicative will make their job easier and ensure your belongings are handled with care.
Notify Your Utility Companies
Make sure your utilities are set to be turned off at your old place and turned on at your new one. This includes electricity, water, gas, internet, and cable. Schedule these changes ahead of time to avoid any gaps in service. Don’t forget to update your address with the post office and important contacts like your bank, insurance provider, and subscription services.
Double-Check Everything Before You Leave
Before you lock up and hand over the keys, do a final walkthrough of your home.
Open every cabinet, closet, and drawer to make sure nothing is left behind. Check the attic, basement, and garage too—these are common places people forget to look.If you’ve hired a house moving service, confirm all the details with them one last time before they start loading the truck.
Verify the destination address, estimated delivery time, and any remaining questions you might have.
Preparing your home for a move doesn’t have to be stressful. With a solid house moving to-do list and some thoughtful planning, you can ensure everything goes smoothly. Declutter, pack smart, protect your space, and stay organized throughout the process. By the time moving day rolls around, you’ll be ready to hit the ground running, and enjoy the excitement of your new home without the hassle.
