After all the planning and preparation that has gone into making your move, it's still the moving day itself that is filled with the most stress and potential for problems. But if you follow our advice it should make things run more smoothly.
First, make sure that you've got all your packing done before the movers arrive. You don't want them to have to wait around for you or to think that they're supposed to be packing things for you, which will cost you extra money.
Remember to pack all of your valuables in a separate box and keep them with you, if possible. You might also want to make a box of "essentials" like towels and pajamas for everyone in the family, toiletries, an alarm clock and the coffeepot (along with coffee, mugs, etc.) so that you'll have everything you need to get through you first night in one place.
Here are some other tips for making your moving day a little easier:
Remove any obstacles so the movers will have a clear path from the door to the truck. Also check hallways and stairways and eliminate any items in the way. If you'll need to remove a stair railing or other "impediment" to get larger items out of the house (your estimator should have alerted you to this), do so before the movers arrive.
Take a walk through the house and check closets and utility areas make sure you haven't forgotten to pack anything you were supposed to. Make sure the boxes you packed are clearly labeled and their room location at your destination is clearly marked on the box. Make sure all of your boxes are taped closed.
Move your cars as needed.
Make accommodations for your pets. You might consider boarding or caging them, letting them stay with a neighbor or relative during the actual move, or you may be able to better accommodate them by taking them to your destination in advance. You'll want to do what's appropriate in order to keep them out of the way of the movers and help reduce their stress levels and anxiety.
Plan to be around to keep a watchful eye on both the packers and the movers while they're packing and loading your possessions. That way, you'll also be readily available to answer any questions they might have. It doesn't hurt to build rapport with your movers and packers either, as they're more likely to do a good job if they like you.
Sometimes it's hard to enjoy moving, but using these tips it should at least be an easier experience for you and your family. If you need more tips on moving, packing and storing your possessions, visit GoMovers.com and check out our new ebook on those subjects.
Our next lesson is the last one, and it will cover the special needs of international movers.
