What To Do Before The Movers Come

Preparing for the arrival of the movers is an essential step in ensuring a smooth and efficient moving process. From packing up your belongings to arranging suitable parking for the removal van, there are several crucial tasks to tackle.

But what about the often overlooked details? What about the pets, the fish tank, and the neighbors?

So, let’s dive in and discover the secrets to a stress-free moving experience.

Ensure all boxes are packed and labeled before the movers arrive

If you are responsible for the packing, it is essential to ensure that all boxes are properly packed and labeled before the movers arrive. Properly packed boxes not only protect your belongings during transportation but also make it easier for the movers to handle and load them onto the moving truck.

Labeling each box accurately is equally important. Clearly mark the contents and the room it belongs to on the outside of the box. This will help the movers know where to place each box in your new home and make unpacking much more efficient. Additionally, consider using color-coded labels or a numbering system to further categorize and organize your boxes.

Remember to keep a detailed inventory list of all your packed boxes. This will be useful for cross-checking during the unpacking process and will help you identify any missing items. By ensuring that all boxes are properly packed and labeled, you can minimize the risk of damage, save time during unpacking, and have a hassle-free moving experience.

Secure nearby parking for the removal  vehicles

Have you made arrangements for suitable and convenient parking? Did you ask the moving company about their removal van size? This is an important aspect to consider when preparing for the arrival of movers. Proper parking ensures a smooth and efficient moving process, minimizing any delays or complications. If the street where you live is busy or has regulated parking spaces, contact your local council a minimum 3 or 4 weeks in advance to check if you can reserve parking spaces. Each council has different periods to suspend parking, so don`t leave this for the last moment.

Create an inventory of all belongings

To ensure a smooth and organized moving process, it is crucial to create a comprehensive inventory list that includes the values of each item and send a copy to the removal company. This step is essential for several reasons.

Firstly, having a detailed inventory list allows you to keep track of all your belongings during the move. By listing each item and its corresponding value, you can easily identify any lost or damaged items and file insurance claims if necessary.

Secondly, sharing the inventory list with the removal company helps them understand the scope of the move and plan accordingly. They can allocate the appropriate resources, such as manpower and packing materials, based on the information provided.

Additionally, having a list with item values enables the removal company to estimate the cost of your move more accurately. This ensures transparency and helps avoid any pricing disputes later on.

Check also: How to move furniture on carpets?

Take photos of all furniture and the property

Capturing detailed photographs of all furniture and your property is an essential step in preparing for the arrival of movers. These photographs serve as a visual record of the condition of your belongings before they are packed and moved. By following this simple step, you can protect yourself from any potential disputes or claims for damages that may arise during the moving process.

Here are three reasons why taking photos is crucial:

Documentation: Photographs provide concrete evidence of the condition of your furniture and property. In case any damage occurs during the move, you will have visual proof to support your claim and ensure fair compensation.

Organization: By taking photos, you can create a visual inventory of your belongings, which will help you stay organized throughout the moving process. You can categorize the photos by room or by specific items, making it easier to track and identify your possessions.

Peace of mind: Knowing that you have photographic evidence of your belongings can bring peace of mind during the stressful moving period. In the unlikely event that something goes wrong, you can refer back to the photos and have confidence in resolving any issues.

Hire a pet sitter if you have dogs or cats

Engaging the services of a professional pet sitter is crucial when you have dogs or cats during the moving process. Moving can be a stressful and chaotic time, and having someone to care for your pets can help alleviate some of that stress and ensure their safety and well-being. Hiring a pet sitter allows you to focus on the logistics of the move while knowing that your furry friends are in good hands.

When choosing a pet sitter, it is important to find someone who is experienced and knowledgeable about caring for animals. They should have a genuine love for pets and be familiar with the specific needs of dogs or cats. Additionally, they should be reliable and trustworthy, as you will be entrusting them with the care of your beloved pets.

During the moving process, there may be a lot of noise, unfamiliar faces, and open doors, which can be overwhelming for pets. A pet sitter can help minimize the stress by providing a calm and familiar environment for your dogs or cats. They can also ensure that your pets are kept away from any potential hazards, such as open boxes or busy movers.

Check also: Moving to a small town expectations

Fish transfer and tank draining protocol

To ensure the safety and well-being of your fish during the moving process, it is essential to carefully transfer them into bags filled with water and empty the fish tank if you have one. Moving can be a stressful experience for fish, as sudden changes in environment and water quality can have detrimental effects on their health.

By following these steps, you can minimize the stress on your fish and ensure their safe transportation:

Prepare the bags: Use clean, sturdy bags that are specifically designed for transporting fish. Avoid using regular plastic bags, as they may not provide enough oxygen for the fish. Fill the bags with water from the fish tank, leaving enough space for the fish to move comfortably.

Catch the fish: Use a fish net to gently catch each fish and place it into a bag. Avoid overcrowding the bags to prevent stress and injury to the fish. If you have multiple fish, it is recommended to use separate bags for each fish.

Empty the fish tank: Before moving the tank, it is crucial to empty it completely. Remove all decorations, plants, and rocks, and carefully drain the water. Keep the filter and other equipment separate and secure them for transportation.

Check also: What size van do I need for my stuff?

Hire a babysitter for small children

To ensure a smooth and stress-free moving experience, it is advisable to hire a qualified babysitter to care for your small children during the arrival of the movers. Moving can be a chaotic and busy time, and having someone dedicated to looking after your children can greatly alleviate the stress and distractions that come with the process.

When the movers arrive, their focus will be on efficiently and safely handling your belongings. This may involve heavy lifting, manoeuvring through tight spaces, or even dismantling furniture. With small children around, it can be challenging to give the movers your undivided attention and ensure the safety of your children at the same time. By hiring a babysitter, you can have peace of mind knowing that your children are in capable hands.

A qualified babysitter will not only keep your children entertained and engaged, but they will also ensure their safety and well-being. They can take care of feeding, changing diapers, and nap times, allowing you to focus on overseeing the moving process. Additionally, the babysitter can keep the children occupied with age-appropriate activities, preventing them from getting in the way or becoming overwhelmed by the commotion.

Check also: Moving Out For The First Time

Secure your valuables

It is essential to carefully pack and personally transport all small valuable items such as money, jewellery, watches, and passports for maximum security and peace of mind during the moving process. These items hold not only financial value but also sentimental worth, making them irreplaceable. By taking these small valuables with you, you can ensure their safety and minimize the risk of loss or theft during the chaos of moving.

To make the packing process more organized and efficient, consider the following tips:

Create a designated box or bag for these small valuables. Label it clearly and keep it separate from other packed items to avoid confusion.

Use protective wrapping materials such as bubble wrap or soft cloth to safeguard delicate jewellery and watches from scratches or damage during transit.

Keep important documents like passports in a secure folder or envelope and carry them with you at all times. This will prevent any potential loss or delay in accessing essential identification.

Inform your neighbours

When preparing for the arrival of professional movers, it may be necessary to notify your neighbors to ensure a smooth and efficient moving process. Informing your neighbors about the upcoming move can help minimize any inconveniences or disruptions that may arise during the moving day. It is considerate to let your neighbors know in advance, especially if there will be large moving trucks or temporary parking restrictions in the area.

Notifying your neighbors about the movers’ arrival can also help establish a sense of trust and cooperation within the community. By informing them about the scheduled moving day, you can address any concerns they may have and reassure them that the process will be handled professionally and with minimal disruption. Additionally, your neighbors may appreciate the opportunity to plan their day accordingly, especially if they need to make alternative parking arrangements or schedule activities that may be affected by the moving process.

To inform your neighbors, you can consider sending out a friendly notice or letter a few days before the movers arrive. Include information such as the date and time of the move, any parking restrictions, and contact details in case of any concerns or questions. You can distribute this notice either by hand-delivering it to your neighbors’ homes or by sending it via email or other electronic means.

Clean the furniture to prevent the transfer of dirt to the new home

Ensure your furniture is clean before the move to maintain its appearance and prevent dirt and allergens from transferring to your new home. Dust furniture thoroughly, paying attention to corners and hard-to-reach areas. Use gentle cleaners for wooden pieces and vacuum upholstered furniture, targeting stains according to manufacturer instructions. Clean removable fabric covers separately to prevent damage.

Check also: Should I Get Packing Service?

Ensure refreshments for your loved ones and the movers

Consider providing food, snacks, tea, and coffee for both your family and the movers to ensure they are well-nourished and energized throughout the moving process. Moving can be a physically demanding task that requires a lot of energy, so it is important to keep everyone fueled and hydrated.

Here are a few reasons why preparing food and beverages for the movers and your family is a good idea:

Boost morale: Moving can be a stressful and tiring experience. By offering refreshments, you can show your appreciation for the hard work the movers are putting in and boost their morale. It can also create a positive atmosphere for your family, making the moving process more enjoyable.

Sustained energy: Providing snacks, such as granola bars, fruits, and sandwiches, can help sustain energy levels throughout the day. Quick and easy access to food will prevent hunger pangs and keep everyone focused on the task at hand.

Hydration: Moving requires physical exertion, leading to sweating and potential dehydration. Offering water, tea, and coffee will help keep everyone hydrated and refreshed. It is important to have both caffeinated and non-caffeinated options to cater to different preferences.

Have cash in hand for tips

Having cash readily available for tips is a considerate gesture to show appreciation for the moving service. When the movers arrive and successfully complete the job to your satisfaction, it is customary to provide a tip as a token of gratitude. Here are some reasons why having cash on hand for tips is essential:

Convenience: Having cash readily available eliminates the need for last-minute trips to the ATM or scrambling to find loose change.

Promptness: By having cash prepared in advance, you can quickly and efficiently reward the movers for their hard work, allowing them to move on to their next assignment promptly.

Recognition: Tipping is a way to acknowledge and reward exceptional service. It shows that you recognize and appreciate the effort put forth by the movers to ensure a smooth and successful move.

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