How to Prepare for Your Upcoming Move

Whether your move will take you five miles or five thousand miles, it’s import to prepare for moving day, it will be key to a successful relocation. Apart from completing some of the larger tasks like booking a moving company, lightening your load, and packing, there are many smaller tasks that often get forgotten or put on the back burner as you prepare for the big day.

Preparing Your Home for a Move:

• For liability purposes please ensure that all of your items are removed from attics and crawl spaces prior to moving day.
• Ensure that all of your electronics are unplugged and that your cords are labeled and organized for easy set-up in your new home.
• Remove all photos and art from the walls. Be sure to remove nails and patch holes before moving day.
• Advise your crew leader of any items in your home that are not to be moved by the van line.
• Once the van is loaded, be sure to do a final walk-through of your home to ensure nothing is left behind and that everything has been cleaned and removed from the home.
• Don’t forget to review our list of Non-allowables, as some items are not legally cleared for interstate transport. You can find a full checklist of items here.

Preparing Your Personal Items for Moving:

• Don’t forget to pack an overnight bag in case you arrive before the truck and so you don’t have to unpack everything the first day to find toiletries, pajamas, or a change of clothes.
• Be sure to pack any medications you will need in a bag to carry with you on moving day. Also consider taking a first-aid kit, just in case!
• Make sure you have collected all your personal records and documents (at home, and at medical offices, schools, etc if you are moving long distance.) Organize these items and make sure you carry them with you on moving day so that you know where they are.
• If you have not paid in advance, make sure you are prepared to pay on moving day. Pre-payments maybe be made with a credit card prior to your scheduled move date, if you will be paying on the day of service, you will be expected to pay via certified funds.

Relocation Travel Arrangements & Planning:

No matter how far you’ll be moving, make sure you have considered travel arrangements, remember to make arrangements considering things like:

• Pets: Do you need a carrier? Remember A leash for walking/potty breaks and water and food if you’re going long distance
• Kids: If you’re going to be spending more than an hour or so in the car, make sure to plan accordingly, also make sure to pack a box with some toys and other special items to keep with you so they have something to do before all their other items are unpacked. Check out more tips here.
• Vehicles: If you need assistance relocating vehicles, talk with your move coordinator up-front to discuss transport options.

Preparing for Long-distance Relocations:

• Long-Distance Travel arrangements: If you’re moving state-to-state or even cross-country, make sure to plan your stops ahead including meals and over-night stays, if they will be required.
• Stay in Touch: Make sure to exchange contact information with your driver and crew to make sure you are all staying in touch about the delivery schedule and any unforeseen issues. Also, talk with your move coordinator about how you can track your shipment for long distance relocations.
• Storage Arrangements: If you will be moving some of your items to a storage unit, short term, during your relocation, be sure to organize this with your move coordinator up front and clearly label all items as either storage or delivery.