The work you do before your moving crew arrives directly impacts how smoothly your move goes. A well-prepared home means faster loading, less risk of damage, and a more efficient use of everyone's time. Here's your preparation checklist for the day before and morning of your move.
The Week Before
Finish packing everything you plan to pack yourself. Leave out only essentials you'll need until moving day — toiletries, a change of clothes, phone chargers, and basic kitchen items. Disassemble any furniture you're comfortable taking apart (bed frames, shelving units) and bag the hardware, taping it to the corresponding piece.
Clear Pathways
Walk the route from every room to your front door. Remove rugs that could trip someone carrying heavy items. Move decorative items, plants, and anything fragile away from hallways and doorways. If you have narrow passages, measure them — your movers need to know if large furniture requires creative maneuvering.
Protect Your Floors
Professional movers bring floor runners and door frame protectors, but you can help by sweeping or vacuuming pathways. If you have hardwood floors you're particularly concerned about, mention it to your crew leader — they'll take extra precautions with padding and dollies.
Prepare Appliances
Refrigerators need to be defrosted at least 24 hours before the move. Disconnect washing machines and drain hoses. Secure dryer drums (many have transit bolts that should be reinstalled). Disconnect gas appliances and have a professional cap the gas line if needed.
Parking and Access
Ensure there's a clear parking spot for the moving truck as close to your door as possible. If you live on a busy street, consider reserving a spot with cones or chairs the night before. For apartments, reserve the elevator and confirm loading dock access with building management.
Morning of the Move
Have your essentials box packed and set aside — this goes in your car, not the truck. Do a final walkthrough of every room, closet, and cabinet. Put pets in a safe room or arrange for them to stay elsewhere during loading. Have cash on hand for tipping your crew (typically $20-50 per mover for a full-day job).
Communication with Your Crew
When the crew arrives, walk them through the home. Point out anything fragile, any items that aren't going, and any access challenges. Show them which items are most important to you. Good communication upfront prevents problems later.
What NOT to Do
Don't try to help carry heavy items — you're not insured and could get hurt. Don't hover over the crew or micromanage their process. Don't leave without designating someone to answer questions. And don't forget to do a final check of the home after loading is complete.
