What Movers Wish Customers Knew Before Moving Day
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Feeling that mix of excitement and panic wondering what to do when you are moving? You’re definitely not alone. It’s the big question everyone faces. While hiring professional movers is the best first step, the real secret to a smooth relocation lies in knowing how to work with them. Think of this not as a list of rules, but as your backstage pass to how the pros think.
This guide is packed with the inside tips on what to do before moving day arrives. We’re talking about everything from that initial search for trusted moving companies to the final box being unloaded. The goal is to turn your probably stressful move into an organized and even enjoyable experience.
Here is what movers wish customers knew before moving day.
Preparing Early for the Move
Let’s be honest, the success of your entire moving day is decided weeks before the truck even arrives. Think of it like a stage play: the day itself is the performance, but all the rehearsals and set-building happen beforehand. As professional movers, the most common sight we see is a client realizing on a Friday that their weekend packing plan is a fantasy. This is why having a clear set of things to do before you move is your secret weapon against chaos.
So, where do you start? Let’s break it down.
Create a Master Timeline & Checklist: Don’t rely on memory. Start 4-6 weeks in advance with a packing and moving checklist. This is your single source of truth and the best way to visualize your progress.
Declutter Ruthlessly, Room by Room: Ask yourself a simple question: “Is this worth the cost to move it?” Be honest. Create piles for donations, sales, and recycling. A lighter load means a faster, cheaper move and a simpler unpacking experience.
Master the Art of the Label: Go beyond just the room name. Write the contents and mark “FRAGILE” or “THIS SIDE UP” on relevant boxes. This isn’t just for you—it’s a direct, clear instruction for your moving team that prevents damage and confusion.
Provide a Brief Inventory to Your Movers: Once you’ve booked your moving services, give them a heads-up about any unusual items. A quick note about a piano, a large safe, or a delicate antique allows them to bring the right equipment and ensures a smooth, efficient process.
Proper Packing Saves You A lot of Trouble
From our point of view, proper packing is what separates a smooth move from one with broken items. The most common mistake we see is using weak boxes or not enough padding, which can lead to damage. To prevent this, you need to invest in sturdy boxes, strong tape, and materials like bubble wrap. Always wrap fragile items like glasses and plates individually to create protective cushions around them.
It also helps us when you pack heavy items, such as books, into small boxes to keep them a manageable weight. Clearly marking any box with delicate contents as “Fragile” alerts our team to handle it with extra care. And for your most valuable electronics or artwork, consider using our professional packing services; it guarantees they are protected with expert materials and techniques.
Talk to Your Movers
Just like packing smartly keeps your items safe, talking to movers early keeps your entire move on track. Think of it this way: we can’t prepare for what we don’t know. Before we arrive, a quick heads-up about a narrow staircase, a long walk to the truck, or a tricky parking spot makes a world of difference. Telling us about that heavy piano or large safe lets us bring the right equipment, saving everyone time and stress.
This is a key part of knowing what to expect on moving day from professional movers—we’re partners. This is especially true for commercial moves. Giving us details about sensitive computers or important documents means we can make sure your business gets back to work faster. A simple conversation is the easiest way to ensure a perfectly smooth day.
Expect the Unexpected
You’ve packed perfectly and talked with us—you’re almost a moving pro! But even with the best plans, moving days can have surprises like bad weather or traffic. Think of this as your final, smart preparation. The best moving companies handle these bumps smoothly, and you can too with a simple backup plan.
Your most important job is to keep a “first-night” box with you. Pack medicines, chargers, a change of clothes, and basic toiletries. Also, confirm your new utilities are connected before arrival. This way, whether it rains or not, you’ll walk into a working, comfortable new space, ready to relax after a long day.
Let the Pros Take Care of the Move
After all your great preparation, the decluttering, the careful packing, and the clear communication, your most important job on moving day is to trust the process. We know it’s tempting to hover and direct, but the best thing you can do is let the moving company do its thing.
When you try to help with the physical work, it can actually slow the move down and even create safety risks. Instead, you can use that energy to be available for questions. You’ve already done the hard work of planning. Now, you can have peace of mind knowing your belongings are in capable hands, and you can focus on the exciting part, which is settling into your new home.
Bonus Tips for an Even Smoother Move
Think of these as the final, pro-level touches to add to your moving day checklist. They take a good move and make it great.
- Measure Doorways and Create a Floor Plan: Before moving day, make sure your large furniture will fit through the doorways and stairwells of your new home. A quick sketch of where the big items will go saves everyone time and effort.
- Pack a “First-Night” Essentials Box: Keep a separate box with snacks, a phone charger, basic toiletries, and a change of clothes. This is your survival kit for the first evening, so you’re not searching through countless boxes.
- Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks: Moving is a workout! Have water and light snacks readily available for yourself, your family, and the moving crew to keep energy levels high.
- Consider Moving Insurance: For priceless items or expensive electronics, ask about moving insurance. It’s a simple step for peace of mind, protecting your most valued belongings.
Conclusion
By now, you know that a perfect move means a partnership. From early planning and smart packing to clear communication and trusting the process, your preparation allows movers to deliver a seamless, stress-free experience.
Ready to experience a move that’s designed entirely around your needs and schedule? At Ed&Ed Moving Company, our moving services are built on this exact philosophy. For a free, no-obligation quote or a friendly consultation, give us a call at 561-563-6941 or visit us online at https://edandedmove.com/. Let’s make your next move your best one yet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Movers want you to prepare for the move by decluttering, properly packing and labeling boxes, and preparing the property itself. They also want you to be transparent about heavy or unusual items and to keep personal valuables separate.
Pack a separate bag or box with essential items that you’ll need throughout the day, such as toiletries, a change of clothes, a toothbrush, and any medications you take regularly. Don’t forget chargers for your devices, snacks to keep your energy up, and important documents, such as contracts or identification.
Generally, tipping between 10% and 20% of the total moving cost is recommended, reflecting the overall value of their service. For local moves, a tip of $20 to $30 per mover is typical, while for long-distance moves, $50 per mover is a good standard.
It’s best to let the professional movers handle all the heavy lifting. They are trained in proper techniques to move items safely and efficiently.
Inform them about any potential access issues, such as narrow staircases, limited parking, or elevator requirements. You should also give them a heads-up about any unusually heavy or valuable items, like a piano or an antique cabinet.