Moving Day Checklist

If it seems like fewer and fewer people are moving these days, it’s not just you. According to a study published in Business Wire, “the 25.6 million Americans who moved in 2023 constitute 7.8% of the population, which is the lowest percentage of relocators ever recorded.” 

Moves ebb and flow, however, so it’s only a matter of time before more people start moving again. Furthermore, we’re still talking about more than 25 million people who changed residences. That’s a lot of people!

Regardless of the numbers, moving day is an exciting, yet nerve-wracking, experience. As a reliable moving company in Dallas-Fort Worth, we’ve helped thousands of people move over the years and we know both what it takes to ensure a seamless transition. If you want to avoid mishaps during your next move, this moving day checklist is for you. Let’s ensure your next moving day goes off without a hitch.

1. Rise and Shine Early

A well-rested mind is crucial on moving day. Despite having packed and organized everything, waking up early gives you ample time to double-check everything. It’s your last chance to catch any overlooked items or issues. Ensure you’re fully prepared for when the movers arrive.

2. Separate Non-Moving Items

To avoid confusion and mistakes, clearly separate items that are not moving with you. Designate a specific area in your home for these items and label them distinctly. This will save time and prevent the movers from accidentally loading these items into the truck.

3. Clear the Pathways

Moving trucks are typically large, so navigating them through narrow or cluttered spaces can be challenging. Ensure the driveaway, street and all entry points to your home are clear for easy access. If you live in an apartment, inform the building manager in advance and settle any outstanding dues. Obtain the necessary clearance to move your belongings and then give your moves ample room to do so.

4. Greet the Movers

When the movers from IMS Relocation (or whoever you hire) arrive, greet them warmly. This is not just polite; it’s an opportunity to verify their identity. Check the license number on their truck and match it with the one on your estimate. This step ensures you’re dealing with the correct crew and sets a positive tone for the day.

5. Pack Essentials Separately

Pack a separate bag of essentials that you’ll need for the first night in your new home. Keep this bag with you, rather than in the moving truck. Examples of items you might want to include:

• Toiletries
• Clothes
• Important documents
• Medications
• Basic kitchen supplies (like a coffee maker!)

If you struggle to sleep in new environments, consider packing a book or anything else that provides comfort as well.

6. Compare Inventories

Both you and the residential movers you hire will have inventories of the items being moved. Cross-check these inventories to ensure everything is accounted for. Being present during the loading and unloading process helps prevent any discrepancies. This step is crucial to ensure nothing gets lost in transit.

7. Communicate Clearly

Effective communication with your moving team can prevent many issues. Clearly explain any special instructions or concerns you have about certain items. If something requires specialized care, make sure the movers are aware. Open lines of communication foster a smooth working relationship and can alleviate a lot of potential stress.

8. Monitor the Process

Stay involved throughout the moving process. This doesn’t mean micromanaging, but rather being available to answer questions and provide guidance. Your presence can help the movers handle your belongings with the care they deserve. Plus, it allows you to address any issues immediately (rather than after the fact). This is difficult to do without a reliable moving company that keeps you in the loop, however, so make sure the mover you hire has a good track record of maintaining good communication and updating customers on progress throughout the process.

9. Prepare Your New Home

Before moving day, ensure your new home is ready. Clean it thoroughly and verify utilities like water, electricity and gas are up and running. If possible, visit your new home a day before the move to confirm. This foresight can save a lot of hassle on the actual day you move in.

10. Stay Calm and Organized

Moving can be emotional and stressful. It’s important to stay calm and organized. Keep a moving guide or checklist handy—you can print off this article, for example—and tick off tasks as they are completed. This will help you stay focused and ensure nothing is overlooked. Remember, the goal is to make this transition as smooth as possible.

Moving day doesn’t have to be chaotic. With proper planning and hiring the right moving company, you can ensure a smooth transition to your new home. To schedule a consultation or get a no-obligation quote from IMS Relocation, contact us today.

Updated 7/12/2024