How to Help Your Pro Movers on Moving Day

Nearly 33 million people in the United States move in a year, according to the most current U.S. Census statistics. If you’re one of those millions moving this year, consider the few things you can do to help your movers on moving day.

Be Ready: Pack in Advance

If you didn’t select the full-service packing option with your mover and have opted to pack your own things, it’s essential to be packed before the movers arrive.

If you’re still tossing items into boxes when the truck pulls up, it will make things more stressful. It also increases the risk that something won’t be packed correctly, leading to broken or damaged items. If movers have to wait around for boxes to be packed, loading the truck takes longer, and if paying an hourly fee, it can cost more money.

Secure Pets

Make arrangements before moving day to secure your pets. For pets’ safety, and for the movers’ safety, they shouldn’t be underfoot. Moving day is hectic, and you don’t want your pets to run off or accidentally be hurt.

Keep Kids Entertained and Out of the Way

Children may be upset to leave their home for the new one or be overly excited. Children must stay out of the way, for everyone’s safety. If possible, have the children stay with a friend or family member. Or designate an older sibling or adult to keep the kids entertained and safe during moving day.

Label Boxes

It saves time on the other end if boxes are labeled with the room to which they need to be delivered. It’s not enough to write “Lucy’s Room” on the box. Movers won’t know which is Lucy’s Room. Use labels like Bedroom 2 and then at the new home, add a sticky note as a sign on doors to designate the room: Bedroom 2, Master Bedroom, Office.

Empty Drawers

Movers can and do move heavy items, from refrigerators to overstuffed couches. However, most prefer that the drawers from dressers, armoires, and desks be emptied, the contents packed in a box, and then those drawers removed. Many filing cabinet drawers can’t be removed. Ask your movers before moving day if those can be secured with wrap/tape to keep the drawers from opening during transport. If the filing cabinet contains important documents or personal information, remove it and transport it to the new home on your own.

Clear the Walkways

Help your movers easily and safely navigate the walkways to and from your home by clearing the path. Ensure there are no trip hazards like pets or children’s toys, low-hanging branches on the exterior, and the hallways inside aren’t cluttered with moving boxes, cleaning materials, and other items.

Stay Clear, But Be Available

Like boxes in the walkway, people also become hazards to movers when they’re trying to do their job on moving day. It’s hard not to give in to the urge to micromanage. It’s important to allow the movers to do their thing. They’re the professionals, and they know how to efficiently pack up a home, including the order in which each item needs to be loaded into the truck or van.

While it’s good to keep out of the way as the movers work, it’s also essential to be available to answer questions. It’s also okay to ask questions and voice concerns as needed.

Ready for the Move

Being prepared is the best way to help your movers on moving day. Be sure to communicate with them before the day, so you know their policies, restrictions, and plans. Ask questions and remember that you’re a team on moving day, and together you’ll get the job done.