Moving Tips

Preparing for Your Move: 13 Essential Steps

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To ensure a smooth start to your move, it's crucial to prepare for the movers well in advance. Don't wait until the last minute to remember important details such as tipping cash and accommodations for your pets. To simplify the process, we've compiled 13 easy steps to help you get ready for your movers before the big day arrives.

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1. Properly Pack Your Belongings

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Unless you've opted for a packing service, it's your responsibility to pack your belongings before the movers arrive. Start by ensuring you have the right packing supplies, including sturdy corrugated boxes of various sizes, dividers, foam pouches, and bubble wrap for fragile items. Don't forget telescope boxes for artwork, mirrors, and TVs, plastic bins for clothing and electronics, and bankers boxes for office files and supplies. Well-packed items are less likely to break during transit.

After packing, be sure to label each box clearly, and consider color coding them by room in your new home. This not only helps the movers know where to place each item but also makes unpacking a breeze.

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2. Arrange Parking for the Movers

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Parking can often be overlooked but is a crucial detail on moving day. The moving truck will need a designated spot, and the driver may contact you in advance to confirm parking arrangements. If you haven't arranged this with the moving company, make sure the movers have a parking spot available, whether in your driveway or through a street parking permit or shared driveway permission.

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3. Ensure Furniture Fits Through Doors

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While professional movers are skilled at navigating furniture through doorways, it's essential to inform them if you have particularly small doorways or oversized furniture. Measuring your furniture ensures that the movers come prepared with the right equipment and strategies for a smooth transition.

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4. Secure Childcare

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If you have small children, consider arranging for childcare on moving day. Juggling children and moving boxes can be challenging, and having movers in your home requires your full attention. Whether it's a babysitter, daycare, a family member, or a friend, having reliable childcare will help you stay focused on the move.

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5. Plan for Your Pets

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Don't forget about your furry friends! Before the movers arrive, establish a plan for your pets on moving day. The front door will be open while the movers work, increasing the risk of your pets escaping. To prevent this, use a crate, enlist someone to watch your pet, or confine them to a single room with a gate. This keeps your pets safe and minimizes distractions for the movers.

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6. Have Cash for Tipping

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While tipping is not obligatory, it's a great way to show appreciation for a job well done. Ensure you have cash on hand to tip your movers. Tipping guidelines vary, but a common recommendation is 20% of the total bill, divided among the movers and driver, or a reasonable flat fee. Adjust the tip based on the level of service and your satisfaction at the end of the move.

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7. Create an Inventory List

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Before the movers arrive, create an inventory list of your belongings. This list will help you keep track of your items during the move and can be invaluable for insurance purposes in case of loss or damage.

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8. Pack an Essentials Box

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Pack a separate essentials box containing items you'll need immediately upon arrival at your new home, such as toiletries, important documents, and basic kitchen supplies. This box should be easily accessible and clearly labeled.

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9. Notify Important Parties

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Ensure that important parties are informed of your move. This includes updating your address with the post office, notifying utility companies, and changing your address with banks, insurance providers, and any subscription services you use.

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10. Prepare Appliances for Transport

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If you're taking appliances with you, make sure they are properly prepared for transport. This includes defrosting and cleaning the refrigerator and securing any movable parts on appliances like washing machines.

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11. Safeguard Valuables

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Pack your valuable items, such as jewelry and important documents, separately and consider transporting them yourself rather than including them with the rest of your belongings.

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12. Stay Accessible on Moving Day

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Be readily available on moving day to address any questions or concerns the movers may have. Having open lines of communication can help ensure a smoother process.

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13. Confirm Moving Details

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Double-check all moving details with the moving company before the big day. Ensure that you and the movers are on the same page regarding logistics, scheduling, and any specific instructions you have.

With these additional tips, your list now accurately includes 13 essential steps for preparing for your move.