Moving day tips

Moving day goes smoothest when the prep happens the night before, not the morning of. Here's what to do before the crew arrives, while they're working, and after everything's unloaded.

Before the crew arrives

  • Finish packing everything except a personal essentials bag — movers work faster with fewer last-minute boxes to wait on
  • Clear pathways — hallways, doorways, and stairs free of loose items and rugs that could slip
  • Set aside important documents, medications, valuables, and a few days of clothes to keep with you, not on the truck
  • Confirm parking/loading access for the truck, and reserve a permit if your building or street requires one
  • Have cash ready if you plan to tip, and water or drinks available for the crew

While the crew is working

  • Do a walkthrough with the crew lead before loading starts — point out fragile items, anything not being moved, and any specific instructions
  • Stay reachable, even if you're not watching every box — questions about specific items come up throughout the day
  • Keep kids and pets in a separate, safe area — a loading truck and busy crew is not a safe environment for either
  • Get a copy of the inventory list before the truck leaves, and don't sign off on anything you haven't actually reviewed

At delivery

  • Inspect items against the inventory sheet before signing off — note any damage in writing immediately, not after the crew has left
  • Do a final walkthrough of the truck to confirm nothing was left behind
  • Keep your copy of the inventory list and any damage notes in case you need to file a claim later
  • Tip if service was good — see our full tipping guide for amounts

What to pack in your moving-day essentials bag

  • ID, passports, the moving contract, and any other important documents
  • Medications and a basic first-aid kit
  • Phone chargers and a portable battery pack
  • A few days of clothes and toiletries
  • Snacks, water, and any items your kids or pets need immediately
  • Cash for tipping and any last-minute expenses
  • Basic tools — screwdriver, tape, scissors — for last-minute reassembly or opening boxes

Planning for bad weather

Have a backup plan for rain, snow, or extreme heat — plastic sheeting to protect floors and furniture from a wet crew, extra water and shade breaks for a summer move, and a realistic buffer in your schedule if the forecast looks bad. Ask your mover in advance how they handle weather delays, especially for an interstate move where the truck may be driving through different conditions than your local forecast.

Frequently asked questions

What should I do the night before movers arrive?

Finish packing everything except a personal essentials bag, clear pathways through the home, charge your phone, and confirm the crew's arrival window with the company. Set aside cash if you plan to tip.

Should I be present the entire time movers are working?

You don't need to watch every box, but you should be reachable and available to answer questions, especially at the start (walkthrough) and end (final inventory check) of the job.

What should I keep with me instead of putting on the truck?

Important documents (ID, passports, moving contract), medications, valuables and jewelry, a few days of clothes and toiletries, chargers, and anything irreplaceable. Never pack these in the moving truck itself.

What if the crew arrives and the price is different from the estimate?

Stop and clarify before anything is loaded. If it's a genuine discrepancy from your written estimate, ask for it in writing and consider calling the company's office directly rather than resolving it verbally with the crew.