Moving to a new home is a monumental task, as sorting belongings and packing everything securely can be overwhelming. However, choosing a full-service moving company can make all the difference, with over 90% of customers reporting higher satisfaction when using professional help for their relocation.
A successful move starts with good preparation. This guide covers all the essential steps to prepare for full-service movers, from organizing a digital inventory and decluttering to managing special items and knowing what movers can't transport. By following these steps, you can enjoy a streamlined, stress-free moving day and focus on settling into your new home with confidence.
Make a Detailed Moving Inventory
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List All Belongings: Creating a detailed inventory helps you keep track of everything and ensures nothing is missed. This list is essential for keeping organized and may even help with moving cost estimates.
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Consider a Digital Inventory: Digital tools like Sortly or Moving Organizer help you categorize, add images, and track each item, making it easier to manage.
Declutter Before Moving
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Sell or Donate Unwanted Items: Downsizing is key for an efficient move. Use platforms like Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp, or donate items to local charities. Decluttering reduces the load, which can lower moving costs and streamline unpacking.
- Organize by Category: Keep essential items (e.g., toiletries, medications, a few days’ clothes) in a separate, clearly labeled bag. Sorting items by category makes packing and unpacking easier.
Label Boxes for Easy Organization
Know What Items Movers Won't Transport
Movers typically won’t move certain items due to safety or liability concerns. These include:
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Hazardous materials (paint, flammable items, aerosols)
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Perishable food items
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Plants in most cases (check with your mover to confirm)
- High-value items like cash, important documents, jewelry and small electronics
Tip: Plan to transport these items yourself or make other arrangements.
Discuss Special Requirements with Your Moving Company
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Inquire About Moving Insurance:Confirm what coverage is provided, especially for valuable or delicate items. If needed, consider purchasing additional insurance for peace of mind.
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Arrange for Special Handling:Notify movers in advance about any items that need special care, like pianos, artwork, or electronics. This allows them to bring the appropriate equipment.
- Eco-Friendly Packing Options:Ask about reusable or recyclable packing materials if you’re aiming for an eco-friendlier move.
Prepare a Moving Day Essentials Bag
On moving day, you’ll need easy access to certain essentials:
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Personal ID and important documents
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Device chargers
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Snacks, water and medications
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Basic toiletries and a change of clothes
- Basic cleaning supplies (for quick touch-ups if needed)
Get Your Home Ready for Moving Day
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Clear Pathways for Movers: Creating lear pathway to ensure smooth and efficient movement for all.
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Protect Floors and Walls: Use floor mats, furniture pads or covers on walls in high-traffic areas to avoid accidental damage.
- Disassemble Furniture (If required): While full-service movers often handle disassembly, you can save time and money by doing it in advance.
Stay Available for Communication with Movers
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Be Present or Designate a Contact: It’s essential to have someone available to address questions and handle last-minute decisions.
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Check Off Items as They’re Loaded: Use your inventory list to track items as they are loaded, ensuring that nothing is overlooked and everything is properly accounted for.
Conduct a Final Walk-Through
Settle into Your New Home Efficiently
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Unpack Essentials First: Begin with essential items-such as kitchenware, bedding and toiletries—to make the first few days comfortable. Gradually move through other items as you settle in.
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Verify Each Box with Your Inventory List: Check off each item against your inventory to confirm nothing was lost or damaged during the move. Report any missing or damaged items to your moving company as soon as possible.
Conclusion
By preparing with these steps, you’ll create a smooth, organized process and ease the moving day experience. For more expert moving tips and resources, explore additional guides on Movers.com or to know more connect with us to get started with a free quote from top-rated movers in your area!