Moving Day

  • Eat breakfast (you may not have time to eat again until evening.)
  • Try not to prepare any meals at home except for a small breakfast.
  • Use disposable plates and cups for drinks and snacks.
  • Put coffee, tea kettle, snacks, soda, and can/bottle opener, first aid kit and a few tools in the "DO NOT PACK" closet.
  • Packing and pick up for shipping and storage will probably take two to three days. Movers usually arrive in the morning (depending on their location) and may be there until late at night, so plan your dinner around their time frame.
  • Give FIRM instructions to packers that they do not begin packing up a room until you have given them specific instructions for each room as to what to pack, store, etc.
  • Send children and pets to babysitter or arrange for sitter to come to your home.
  • Check the water and utilities and drain the hot water heater if no one will move in soon.
  • Leave a list of instructions for the new occupant which includes:
    • Name and contact of property manager (if applicable)
    • A list of the names of the utility companies (gas, electric, and water)
    • Map showing what is planted in yard that may not be presently showing
    • Plumber /Handyman contact
    • Pest control contact
    • Garbage service and day of collection
  • Leave a list of instructions, warranties, keys, garage door openers, etc. on a kitchen counter where they will be easily found.
  • Plan to be at home or have someone there for the entire day to make final decisions.
  • Double-check closets, drawers, and shelves to ensure they are empty before signing the Bill of Lading; this gives your approval that everything is satisfactory. Keep a copy of the Bill of Lading and take it with you to check off at unloading time.
  • Do a last minute clean-up; consider staying overnight to get a fresh start in the morning.