Tips for Moving Day Every Mover Should Know

Moving Day Tips: A Stress-Free Guide for Your Big Move

Moving to a new home is an exciting milestone, but without the right preparation, it can quickly become overwhelming. To help you navigate the process smoothly, we’ve gathered essential tips for moving day for your family, pets and belonging. It is complete with real-life experiences and expert moving day advice—so you can avoid common pitfalls and enjoy a seamless transition.

Our moving companies in Connecticut are here to help you make your relocation easier! We want you to feel more prepared on move day. To ensure that you and your family have a safe, simple, and smooth moving day, here are some moving tips that every mover should keep in mind.

Once you’ve completed these steps you’ll be on your way to a stress-free move.

Plan for Pets and Young Children

Picture this: Boxes stacked high, movers coming and going, and in the middle of it all, your curious toddler or nervous pet darting around. One of the best tips for moving day is ensuring their safety.

✨ Real Story: Sarah, a mom from Connecticut, recalls, “During our last move, our cat slipped outside unnoticed. We spent hours searching, only to find her hiding inside a moving box!”

✅ What to Do:

• Arrange for a family member or pet sitter to watch them on moving day to simplify your responsibilities.
• If they must be present, set up a designated safe space with their favorite toys, snacks, and comfort items.

Not only will this stop them from running outside, but it will also prevent the movers from tripping over them while they carry your sofa.

RELATED: Learn more about making arrangements for pets on move day

Don’t Try to Do It All—Ask for Help On Move Day

Many people make the mistake of underestimating how much work moving requires. One of the most important moving day tips is knowing when to call in reinforcements.

✨ Real Story: John thought he could handle his entire move alone. “I ended up with a strained back and had to delay unpacking for weeks,” he admits.

✅ Moving Day Advice:

• Hire local professional movers to handle heavy lifting.
• If relying on friends, assign specific tasks to stay organized.

Remember to Stack Heavy Items First

It may seem obvious, but in the confusion of a move, it can be easy to pack your boxes in a less-than-ideal way. Try to focus on the weight of each item as you pack. The same goes for stacking boxes once they are packed. Place the heaviest of the boxes on the bottom of the stack. It is also a good idea to label them as “Heavy”, so the movers know to load these items into the truck first. Think of the moving truck like a game of Jenga—placing heavy furniture and boxes at the bottom prevents shifting during transit.

✨ Pro Tip: Movers say, “A well-packed truck is the key to keeping your belongings safe.”

✅ How to Do It Right:

• Load the heaviest items first (appliances, furniture, large boxes).
• Lighter and fragile items should go on top.

Pack Smart and Start Early

As tempting as it may be, you don’t have to finish everything in one day. It is best to start packing up your home early. Buy the packing materials and boxes you need, so you have everything on hand. Then work on packing a few boxes each day. It is a big job to pack up a home, so give yourself enough time. Also, try to get rid of as much as you can through donations, garage sales, or the trash. Moving less will make the job easier and getting rid of your clutter will make you feel more organized.

Packing last-minute leads to chaos. One of the best tips for moving day is to pack methodically over several weeks.

✨ Real Story: Emily, who moved cross-country, shares, “I rushed through packing and ended up with my kitchenware mixed with bathroom supplies—unpacking was a nightmare.”

✅ How to Stay Organized:

• Label boxes clearly with room names and contents.
• Pack one room at a time to avoid mix-ups.

Get Creative

Are you running low on boxes? Want a greener option? Then, think about the boxes you may already have on hand. These include suitcases, storage totes, laundry hampers, decorative baskets, backpacks, purses, or even storage furniture like an ottoman. Just because it isn’t labeled as a box, doesn’t mean it can’t be used to consolidate your items when moving. Plus, you will be saving a few trees and a few dollars, by going green and not wasting another cardboard box.

Keep Important Documents and Valuables with You

It is a best practice to pre-pack high-value items, like jewelry, antiques, and important documents like your driver’s license, social security cards, passports, money (including coin collections), checks, wallets, purses, contracts, and birth certificates separately. Once you’ve packed them, you should then keep them in a safe place. We recommend either keeping them with you or placing them in your car, before moving day.  Additionally, these items should be moved by you, and not moved with the rest of your household goods. This separation helps to avoid damage and helps them from getting lost during the moving process.

Additionally, you should clearly label the boxes, so you can easily identify them. If you accidentally place your important belongings into an unmarked box, you’ll have a difficult time trying to locate them when you need them. However, to be on the cautious side, you may not want to label them as valuables, or coin collection, etc. 

One of the most overlooked moving day tips is safeguarding essentials like passports, jewelry, and medications.

✨ Real Story: Michael spent hours searching for his passport, only to realize it was packed away in a random box.

✅ What to Do:

• Pack vital documents, cash, and valuables in a separate, easily accessible bag.
• Transport these items personally to avoid loss.

Pack an Overnight Bag with Essentials

After a long day of moving, the last thing you want is to dig through boxes for your toothbrush. One of the simplest tips for moving day is to prepare a survival kit.

Pack an overnight bag for moving day with personal items you may need the night of the move and for the next morning. Be sure to have one bag packed for each family member and for your pets.

✅ What to Include:

• Medications and pet supplies if applicable.
• Toiletries (Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, make-up, baby care items, toilet paper)
• Clothing (Pajamas and clothes for the next day)
• Pillows, Blankets, Sheets
• Shower Curtain
• Electronics (Cell Phone, Chargers & Bluetooth Speaker)
• Snacks & Water
• Basic Kitchen items (Paper plates, plastic cutlery, and a corkscrew+)

With long-distance moves or local moving often comes a bit of confusion and exhaustion. So, this pre-packed travel bag of your necessary things should be kept with you and moved to a secure location before the move day begins. We know from experience that you don’t want to spend the last hour, before you go to bed, searching through boxes for your toothbrush or clean bedsheets. Preparation is the key to a stress-free first night in your new home.

Dress Comfortably for Moving Day – Moving is Hard Work

You’ll be doing a lot of lifting, bending, and walking. Good moving day advice includes wearing practical clothing.

✨ Mover’s Tip: “Wear breathable clothes and sturdy, closed-toe shoes to prevent injuries.”

✅ Consider the following clothing recommendations:

1. Bottoms: Opt for long pants or sturdy shorts that provide coverage and protect your legs from potential scrapes and bruises.

2. Footwear: Choose closed-toe, non-slip boots or shoes that offer stability and grip for navigating through various surfaces. This will safeguard your feet from potential injuries like crushed toes or trips and slips.

3. Upper body: Wear a long-sleeve t-shirt or consider using arm guards to shield your arms from accidental bumps and scrapes while handling bulky or heavy items.

4. Headwear: It’s a good idea to wear a bandana or a hat to keep sweat and hair out of your eyes, providing better visibility and preventing any distractions that could lead to accidents.

5. Proper fit: Avoid clothing that is too loose, as it can easily get caught on doorknobs, tools, or even delicate items, posing a risk for injuries or damages. Opt for attire that allows you to move comfortably but fits snugly enough to avoid accidents.

6. Weather considerations: Depending on the climate and time of year, make sure to dress accordingly. Bring extra layers for colder weather or lightweight, breathable clothing for hot and humid conditions. If rain or snow is expected, prepare with waterproof or water-resistant gear to stay dry.

Remember A Change of Clothing at The End of a Move

Keep in mind that throughout the day, your clothes are likely to become dirty, damp, and possibly odorous. It’s a good idea to set aside a clean outfit for when you finish, ensuring you avoid any discomfort or potential health hazards associated with wearing soiled clothing for an extended period.

By following these clothing recommendations, you’ll be better prepared for the physical demands of moving day while minimizing the risk of injuries and protecting your overall well-being.

Dispose of Unwanted Items Before the Move

Moving is the perfect time to declutter. The less you bring, the easier your move will be.

✨ Pro Tip: Hold a garage sale or donate items to charity before moving. This can lighten your load and even put some extra cash in your pocket!

✨ Real Story: Lisa from Fairfield realized she had boxes in her attic she hadn’t opened in five years. “I was about to pack them, then I thought—if I haven’t needed them in this long, why move them?” She donated five large boxes and saved time and space in her new home.

✅ Decluttering Checklist:

• Sell or donate clothing you haven’t worn in a year.
• Get rid of broken or outdated furniture.
• Recycle old electronics responsibly.
• Toss expired pantry items and cosmetics.

✅ Clutter adds unnecessary stress. Marie Kondo, organizing consultant, emphasizes, “Keep only what sparks joy.”

• Declutter: Sort through belongings and donate or discard items you no longer need.
• Lighten the Load: Fewer items mean a quicker, more cost-effective move.

When conducting your move, it’s a good idea to keep a garbage bag or an empty box handy. This way, you can easily dispose of any missed garbage or personal items that you come across during the process. Having one designated place to throw these things in as you go can help you maintain cleanliness and organization throughout the move.

Stay Hydrated, Nourished, and Take Breaks

Moving day can be exhausting, especially if you forget to care for yourself.

✨ Pro Tip: Keep a cooler stocked with water and easy-to-eat snacks. Set reminders to take short breaks and avoid burnout.

✨ Real Story: David moved during a summer heatwave and got so caught up in the move that he forgot to drink water. “By noon, I had a splitting headache and felt dizzy—I had to stop everything and rest. Lesson learned!”

✨ Real Story: Amidst the hustle, it’s easy to neglect basic needs. David, who moved during summer, recalls, “I was so focused I forgot to drink water and ended up dehydrated.”

✅ Essentials to Have on Hand:

• • Bottled water or electrolyte drinks.
  • Protein bars, nuts, and fresh fruit.
  • A small first-aid kit for minor injuries.

Proper hydration during a move is crucial to keep your body functioning optimally. To ensure you stay adequately hydrated, it is important to have an ample supply of water and/or sports drinks readily available, even if you’re moving during the cooler months. These beverages can help replenish the fluids lost due to sweating and physical exertion. Additionally, sipping on water or sports drinks at regular intervals throughout the move will help maintain your body’s hydration levels. Remember to listen to your body’s signals and drink whenever you feel thirsty. By prioritizing hydration and having a variety of hydrating beverages accessible, you will ensure that your body stays hydrated throughout the moving process.

Have an Emergency Backup Plan

Even the best-planned moves can have unexpected hiccups.

✨ Pro Tip: Keep a list of emergency contacts, including your moving company, tow services, and a nearby hotel, in case of delays.

✨ Real Story: Lisa’s moving truck broke down halfway to her new home. “Luckily, I had a backup plan. I had saved my movers’ direct line, and within an hour, they sent another truck.”

✅ Backup Plan Checklist:

• Know the customer service number for your movers.
• Have a plan B for transportation in case of delays.
• Keep a small overnight bag with essentials, just in case.

If you take precautions, you most likely won’t have to worry about emergencies. However, accidents do happen and it’s best to be prepared for them when they do. If you or a family member requires medication, make sure it’s handy and that everyone knows where it is. Be sure to keep medications with you and not pack them in a box where they may be hard to find at the new location. Similarly, label your first aid kit and keep it with your necessities during the move.

Schedule Utility Shut Offs and Setups

When it comes to scheduling utility shut-offs and setups during a move, it’s important to plan and consider a few key factors. Moving can often take longer than anticipated, so it’s wise to think twice before scheduling these services.

To begin with, it’s advisable to schedule utility shut-offs for the day after your move. This provides a buffer in case your move runs late, ensuring you don’t end up with a dark house and no access to water. Giving yourself this extra day allows for a smoother transition and avoids unnecessary stress.

Equally important is ensuring that the utilities in your new home are set up to be functional as close to your arrival as possible. It’s essential to contact the providers of electricity, natural gas, water and sewer, internet and cable, and trash services for your new residence. By reaching out to them in advance, you can arrange for the setup and activation of these essential home services, ensuring that you have them available when you need them, preferably on your arrival day.

In addition to arranging for the setups, it’s crucial not to forget about the transfer or cancellation of any subscriptions you may have. This includes services like magazine or newspaper subscriptions, as well as any other recurring services that you no longer require at your old address.

By taking these steps, you can ensure a seamless transition when it comes to your utility shut-offs and setups during your move. Planning, allowing for extra time, and contacting the necessary providers will help you avoid the inconvenience of a dark house in the fall, no air conditioning in the summer, or the lack of essential utilities in your new home.

Do a Final Walkthrough Before Leaving

Before locking up, double-check every room for forgotten items.

✨ Pro Tip: Walk through your home with your phone flashlight to catch anything hiding in dark corners.

✨ Real Story: Jessica almost left behind an heirloom mirror in her attic. “It was a last-minute check that saved me—it would’ve been lost forever!”

✅ Final Walkthrough Checklist:

• Open all closets, cabinets, and drawers.
• Check the attic, basement, garage, and backyard.
• Look behind doors and under sinks.

Before the moving truck leaves for the new location, do a final walkthrough of your home before you leave. It is your responsibility to check that nothing is left behind. So, always go through each room of your home for one last look before you leave the home for good. Be sure to check the basement, garage, patio, and attic too.

Plus, check your closets, pantries, storage spaces, and cabinets. You know your house best and the movers may have missed something. It will give you peace of mind to know that everything made it to the truck on move day. If you can’t find something when you are at your new location, at least you’ll know it wasn’t left behind on move day, and that you should continue to unpack.

By following these moving day tips, you’ll feel more in control and ready for a stress-free move. Take it step by step, and soon, you’ll be settling into your new home with ease!

When Moving Without Movers – Assign Your Team with Tasks During a DIY Move

When it comes to assigning tasks to your team during a DIY move, there are several steps you can follow to ensure a smooth process:

1. Plan:

Take some time a day or two before the move to create a list of all your helpers. Consider their physical abilities and aptitudes when assigning moving tasks. It’s important to include yourself in this list as well.

2. Organize and communicate:

When delegating tasks during a move, be organized and assertive. Communicate to each person what their role will be on a moving day. Make sure they understand their responsibilities and are prepared to fulfill them.

3. Safety first:

Declutter the stairs and other areas where heavy items will be carried to minimize the risk of trips and falls. Prioritize safety by ensuring clear pathways and taking necessary precautions throughout the move.

4. Visualize the new space:

Create a floor plan of your new home to help your helpers visualize where each item should go. This will make the moving process more efficient and help avoid confusion when unloading and unpacking.

5. Preparing the belongings:

Before moving day, wrap and pack everything in moving boxes. Don’t expect your team to handle packing on the day of the move. Mark fragile items clearly on the boxes to prevent accidental damage.

6. Label and organize the boxes:

Use color-coded stickers or labels to indicate which room each box belongs to in your new home. This will make it easier for your team to place the boxes in the correct locations and save time during the unpacking process.

7. Provide necessary supplies:

Ensure all moving supplies are readily available if your helpers assist with packing. This includes cardboard boxes, packing paper, bubble wrap, markers, stickers, scissors, and packing tape. Having all the supplies in one place will help streamline the packing process.

8. Loading the truck efficiently:

Start by loading the heavy or large boxes into the moving truck first. During transportation, this helps to prevent the smaller, lighter boxes from being crushed or damaged.

Remember, the key to assigning tasks to your team during a DIY move is proper planning, clear communication, and ensuring everyone has the necessary resources to complete their assigned tasks.

For more advice and help for your upcoming move, check out our Ultimate Moving Checklist, to make your move as smooth as possible. Our Connecticut movers are excited to move you into your new home!

Or Call: 800-966-6838

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