What should you do before movers come?
Introduction
Moving day is hectic. And even though it’s the moving(movers) team that will do most of the heavy lifting, transportation and unpacking, homeowners also need to think about the moving preparation. They should pack a first night box full of essentials; unplug appliances and devices; clear a path; and acquire parking permits for the moving trucks. If you’re planning on relocating to a new house soon, the following blog tells you how to get ready before the team arrives.
Readying For The Relocation: A Moving Checklist For Every Home
Are you moving into a bigger house in a few months? Or shifting to a new city for a better work opportunity? Although hiring residential movers does a great deal in relieving most of the strain that comes with relocating; there are still several things that need to be taken care of before the packers and movers arrive. From securing valuables to tending to small children; here is a look at how families should be preparing for movers.
Take note as we list everything.
- Prepare A First Night Box
Even with everything labelled, winding up the entire house means that several small things get misplaced. So, the most important thing to do before the movers arrive is to prepare a box full of essentials like phone chargers, basic tools, snacks and changes of clothes to be carried with you.
- Secure Valuables
Following the same logic, it’s also important to secure valuables like heirlooms, jewelry, passports and deeds separately. Allocate a box to all these items and assign a folder to all the important paperwork that shouldn’t be lost under any circumstances.
- Pack Non-Essentials
Even before the packers arrive, you can make the process more efficient by putting away rarely used dishes, holiday decorations and off-season clothing. This packing for movers may lower service fees and saves time on moving day.
- Declutter Items
Leading from that, as you put away these items, go through them slowly. Methodically sifting through all your belongings can help you find damaged items that can be thrown away and donating quality items that you no longer need. This clears your space and helps with a fresh start.
- Empty & Clean
Another smart move before the movers arrive is to defrost and clean your refrigerator. You can take this opportunity to clean it as well. Do the same for all your cupboards and dressers to secure your personal belongings and prepare your appliances for the move.

- Empty Out Fuels
If you have machines like lawn mowers and weed whackers, it’s best to empty the tanks. Moving teams are legally restricted from moving these hazardous liquids, so emptying the machines simply expedites the process.
- Unplug Electronics
While it’s important to disconnect your speakers, TVs and home theaters beforehand, it can be difficult to reconnect them. So, take pictures of the cord connections and, if possible, have the movers store all the equipment in their original packaging to keep them safe.
- Remove Decorations
Wall clocks and picture frames can get accidentally knocked off the walls during moving activities. And rugs and carpets can pose tripping hazards. So, make sure to take them down before the team arrives as part of your moving preparation.
- Secure Pets & Children
Strangers coming in and out of the house carrying heavy boxes is no place for small children and restless pets. So, to keep them away from the stress and any potential accidents, arrange for them to stay with friends or relatives as you’re preparing for movers.
- Clear Pathways
Twigs and toys in the driveway and boxes littering the floors are unnecessary—and dangerous—obstacles that need to be dealt with beforehand as well. So, be sure to stack your boxes against walls and clear the path upfront leading to the moving trucks.
- Secure Parking Permits
Moving takes a few hours. And so does the unpacking phase. So, in order to avoid unhappy neighbors, fines and legal actions, be sure to visit the local departments a few days in advance to secure parking permits for the trucks at your old and new locations.
Conclusion
In the end, while entrusting the packing and logistics to expert movers is ideal for a stress-free move, there are a few things that families should do before they arrive. They should secure children, acquire the right permits, pack away non-essentials and declutter items. Furthermore, taking down decorations and stacking all the boxes neatly should also be part of the moving checklist. We hope this blog was helpful. If you need more guidance, please ask.
FAQS
How far in advance should I book the moving service?
You should book the residential moving service 2-4 months in advance.
How do I find the right team?
Look for locals with certification, experience and good reviews.
What is the average short-distance moving cost?
A short-distance move usually costs between $500 and $3,500 or so.