HOW TO PREPARE FOR MOVERS
So, you’ve done all the logistical planning surrounding your move. Congrats! You’ve found a new home, you’ve hired the movers, you’ve set a date, you may have even started packing. Presumably, you’ve already gotten rid of some stuff you don’t need and started to say your goodbyes to your neighbors. Now you wait for the movers to arrive! Planning for the movers to arrive can be a bit confusing sometimes, especially if this is your first time moving and you don’t know what to expect. Here are some tips to help you prepare for the movers and make sure your move goes as smoothly as possible.
HOW TO PREPARE FOR MOVERS
Are you planning a move? Here are some tips and tricks to help you prepare for movers!
20 TIPS TO HELP YOU PREPARE FOR MOVERS
Reserve a parking spot for the moving truck
It is going to be a lot easier for the movers to do their job if they have a good parking spot with easy accessibility to your house. See if you can try and reserve a spot for the truck beforehand. This can make the move a lot faster and efficient.
Clear a path for the movers
While your house will probably look like a mess, you are still going to want to clear a path in your house for the movers so that they can get to your belongings easily.
Reserve the elevator (if you live in a high rise)
If you live in an apartment building on a high floor you are going to want to reserve the elevator for the move. Typically, you will have to consult your building’s management to do so.
Double check with the movers regarding your quote
Whenever you get a moving quote, you should ask the moving company what is included in that quote. Be sure to tell movers about any special conditions about your apartment/house (do you live in a 5 floor walk up?) Do you need furniture disassembled? Do you need certain items packed? Make sure that you understand what exactly is included in that price before the movers arrive.
Update the movers about any changes in inventory
If you have ANY changes in your inventory (let’s say you found an entire closet full of books in your attic,) you must notify the moving company, so that they can make changes in their system. You don’t want to end up paying more than you signed up for because you failed to inform the movers about the details of the job.
Leave fragile items for the movers to pack
This is definitely up to you, but sometimes, it’s best for the movers to pack some of your most fragile items (antiques, lamps, sculptures, mirrors). While this service may come as an extra charge, you don’t want to risk damaging your items because of improper packing.
Prepare your home for a mess!
You may want to take extra measures to protect your staircases, walls, floors and so on. Use rags, tarps and plastic wrap to cover any surfaces in your house that could get damaged during moving. Wrap staircase banisters, use mats near the doorways and be sure to use dollies whenever moving furniture.
Do your laundry before the move!
You don’t want to pack boxes full of dirty clothes and sheets, try to get all of your laundry done before the move so that you have clean clothes upon arrival.
Understand scope of the insurance coverage
Movers are required to provide basic insurance with their services, however, you should be diligent in finding out exactly how much this insurance covers. If you want additional coverage you should sort that out before the movers arrive.
Get cash for the movers!
Tipping movers in cash is customary if you are satisfied with their job. Get some cash on hand before the movers arrive so that you can thank them at the end of the day.
Get snacks & water ready!
Typically, moving day is long and exhausting. You are probably going to get hungry. Make sure you have some snacks (and water) on hand to help you refuel.
Find a babysitter for the kids/pets
It may be easier to complete the move if the kids/pets are occupied. See if you can have a neighbor watch them while the movers are doing their job.
Create a floor plan for your new home
If you have an idea in mind for how the furniture should be set up in your new place, consider submitting a visual depiction of this to the movers. That way when they arrive at your new home, they know where to put all of your furniture and won’t waste any time.
Keep a bathroom open for the movers
While it’s possible you’ve packed up most of your toiletries, leave some soap on hand for the movers in case they need to use the bathroom.
Don’t pack your valuables!
Not everything should be put in a box and handled by the movers. Don’t pack cash, important documents, medications, important toys, or jewelry away. Make sure that you have these items on hand so that they don’t get lost during the move.
Pack a suitcase for your moving day essentials
While most of your belongings will be packed away in boxes, make sure you have your essentials on hand. Prepare a few changes of socks, underwear and clothes in a suitcase that you will have access to throughout the move. Be sure to pack some toiletries (toothbrush, soap, toothpaste, skincare, etc). so that you can feel fresh during the move.
Have cleaning supplies and garbage bags on hand
You are going to need to clean up after the move. If you are a renter, this is to ensure you get your deposit back. If you have sold your house, this is to leave the house in good condition for the new owners. Have some supplies on hand that are easily accessible.
Unplug, clean & empty appliances
You are going to need to unplug all of your appliances (as well as clean them and drain them, too) before the movers arrive! Movers cannot transport any liquids. Be sure to empty out your lawn mower fuel and drain your washing machine. Take out all the food from your fridge and dispose of it properly.
Be prepared for the weather!
Weather is unpredictable but make sure you have some umbrellas and tarps on hand in case of rain or snow. You don’t want any of your furniture to get damaged because of the weather. In a similar light, be sure to have extra water on hand if you are moving on a hot summer day.
Take photos of all your boxes!
To avoid any confusion or stress, try and take photos of the contents of your boxes and label them on your phone. That way you can remember how you packed and what boxes contain which belongings.
READY TO MOVE & PREPARE FOR MOVERS?
If you are ready to move, be sure to contact USA Preferred Movers for a free quote. We are a professional moving company that operates all throughout the United States. We offer long distance moving, local moves and storage solutions. With over 40 years of moving experience, we can help you get moved in with ease.