The Moving Day Checklist: What to Do Before, During and After
A moving day checklist: what to do the night before, when the crew arrives, during loading and unloading, and your final walkthrough.
On moving day, be ready before the crew arrives, walk the movers through the job, keep valuables with you and do a final walkthrough of both homes. A little preparation the night before makes the whole day faster and calmer.
The night before
- Finish packing and tape up all boxes, leaving only the open-first box and essentials.
- Defrost and dry the fridge and freezer if they are moving.
- Charge your phone and pack chargers in your bag.
- Put valuables, documents and medications in a bag you will carry yourself.
- Confirm the date, time and addresses with the movers.
- Reserve the elevator and parking if you live in a condo or apartment; see moving into a condo.
Before the crew arrives
- Clear and salt paths in winter and move cars out of the way.
- Keep pets in a safe room or with a friend.
- Make a walkthrough list of what is going and what is staying.
- Take photos of your furniture and any existing damage.
When the crew arrives
- Greet the crew lead and walk through both homes, pointing out fragile items, items not going and anything unusual.
- Review the written quote and the start time.
- Tell the crew where parking and the elevator are.
- Check that the truck is ready and that blankets and equipment are on board.
During loading
- Stay available to answer questions, but let the crew work.
- Keep a clear path and do not block doorways.
- Keep an eye on small valuables and your bag.
- Do a last sweep of cupboards, closets, the garage and attic.
Unloading
- Be at the new home before the truck, or arrive soon after, with keys and parking ready.
- Show the crew where each room is, and tell them where large furniture goes.
- Check items as they come in and note damage on the paperwork before the crew leaves.
Final walkthrough
Check every room, cupboard and closet at the old home for anything left behind. Take final meter readings, lock up and return keys. At the new home, check the utilities and note anything that needs fixing.
Pay and wrap up
Review the final invoice against the quote, pay as agreed, and thank the crew. If you want to leave a tip, see do you tip movers. Get a free quote to book your move.
