How to Have a Smooth Move: 5 Moving Day Mistakes to Avoid

It’s moving day! 

You’re excited about your new adventure, but are you confident in your move?

There are specific tasks you should complete if you want to have a smooth move. Before you pack your boxes, check out these helpful tips so you can avoid common moving mistakes.

1. Declutter Before Moving Day

Moving day is not the day to declutter and purge items. Before you begin packing boxes, take the time to get rid of things you no longer need. Keep sentimental items and toss (or donate) things that you haven’t used in a year.

Donate unwanted items and furniture to places like the local Salvation Army or Goodwill. Some organizations may even come to your home to pick them up for you!

2. Create a First Night Box

One of the best moving day tips is to create a first night box and keep it with you. This box will contain things that you’ll want easy access to when you first arrive. A few things to pack in your first night box include:

• Toiletries
• Medications
• Change of clothes
• Phone chargers

Also, consider packing a box of cleaning supplies so you can wipe and disinfect areas when you arrive at your new place.

3. Label Boxes Appropriately

The key to an organized move is packing and labeling your boxes. 

Label each box. Include the family’s last name, contents, and an abbreviated room location like FAM or MBR on the side and not the top of each box. Consult your mover for tips on how to label your items. You can keep it simple with a sharpie marker or get elaborate with a color-coded labeling system.

Add special handling instructions like “fragile” or “this side up” to appropriate boxes to prevent any damage. 

4. Make a Plan for Kids and Pets

If you have children who are old enough to help out, make sure they know their role for moving day. If your tots are too little, consider having them stay at a sitter’s house during the move. This will keep them safe and out of the movers’ way, plus it will keep them occupied and distracted from the disorder in their typical environment.

Also, make arrangements for your dog. Either prepare a “safe room” for your furry friend in your home and let movers know not to enter that room, or plan for a neighbor, friend or relative to pet-sit for you at their home on moving day. This will help keep your dog from getting under the movers’ feet or possibly escaping through an open door. 

5. Hire the Right Movers for You

Hiring the right movers can make or break your move. You don’t want to hire a company based on their low prices alone. Find a company that is right for your needs.

Do your due diligence and research various companies before hiring. References and word of mouth from friends and family can help you find a company to trust.

Make Your Move a Smooth Move

Moving can be a stressful experience, but there are ways you can make it a smooth move. When you’re proactive and organized, you can get to your new location with no issues.

Are you ready for a smooth move? Contact us today for a free quote and see how we can help you get from point A to point B, stress-free!