One of the busiest days of your life is approaching. Try to complete all the tasks below prior to move day so that you can be around during the loading process; often drivers have questions that only you can answer. It is key that you or someone you've designated will be available throughout the loading process.
Mark items you don't want loaded
Clearly mark and set aside items you do not want loaded. This will remind you to tell the driver what not to load as you conduct your pre-load walkthrough. Make sure your important paperwork pertaining to the move does not get packed and shipped with your household goods.
Pack special items for the kids
Have your kids pack a box of their "special" items. Point this box out to the driver so it's one of the first to be unloaded.
You may want to have someone take care of the kids (and pets) while the movers are packing and loading your possessions. Have the caregiver bring the kids home prior to the truck leaving so your kids understand where their belongings are heading.
Don't Forget
See our list of non-transportable items
Clear walkways
Make it safe and easy for your movers to get in and out of your house by removing all obstructions.
Once the mover arrives, point out the items which are most special to you during the walkthrough. All your items will be handled with care, but take a moment to show them which ones mean the most to you. Point out boxes which you would like have unloaded first, if they are not going into storage.
Before the driver leaves:
Mark items you don't want loaded
Clearly mark and set aside items you do not want loaded. This will remind you to tell the driver what not to load as you conduct your pre-load walkthrough. Make sure your important paperwork pertaining to the move does not get packed and shipped with your household goods.
Pack special items for the kids
Have your kids pack a box of their "special" items. Point this box out to the driver so it's one of the first to be unloaded.
You may want to have someone take care of the kids (and pets) while the movers are packing and loading your possessions. Have the caregiver bring the kids home prior to the truck leaving so your kids understand where their belongings are heading.
Don't Forget
See our list of non-transportable items
Clear walkways
Make it safe and easy for your movers to get in and out of your house by removing all obstructions.
- Move potted plants and planters from front porch, walkways, and driveways.
- Remove all door and floor mats.
- Remove all rugs. The crew will protect the floors with a specially designed floor covering that does not slip.
- Remove low-hanging items such as wind chimes or hanging plants.
Once the mover arrives, point out the items which are most special to you during the walkthrough. All your items will be handled with care, but take a moment to show them which ones mean the most to you. Point out boxes which you would like have unloaded first, if they are not going into storage.
Before the driver leaves:
- Make sure you understand all the paperwork you are signing before the driver departs.
- Provide the driver with your destination contact information.
- Ask the driver if your shipment is the last they will be loading.
- Find out as many details as you can prior to the driver leaving your residence.
- The driver may give you a delivery window. Keep in mind that this is only an estimation of the time of loading.
- Take one last sweep of the house before the driver leaves. Thoroughly look through your entire house.
