Did You Know?

Studies show that 92% of Americans reported major challenges during their last move, with more than 40% admitting they went over budget. The good news? Most of these problems are completely preventable with proper preparation.

Moving day doesn't have to be stressful. With over 15 years of professional moving experience, we've seen what works—and what leads to disaster. This comprehensive checklist will walk you through exactly what to do one week before, one day before, and on moving day morning to ensure a smooth, efficient relocation.

One Week Before Moving Day

The week leading up to your move is critical for setting yourself up for success. This is when you confirm details, finish packing, and handle final preparations.

📞 Confirm All Details with Your Moving Company

Contact your movers one week before the scheduled date to verify every detail. Professional moving companies will typically reach out to you 1-3 days prior, but don't wait—be proactive.

✓ Verify arrival time and date
✓ Confirm the number of movers assigned to your job
✓ Ask about street access, parking permits, and elevator reservations
✓ Get direct contact numbers for the day of the move
✓ Confirm that protective equipment will be provided (moving blankets, floor protection)

🎒 Pack Your "First Night" Essentials Box

Don't make the mistake of packing everything. Create a survival kit with items you'll need immediately at your new home.

Personal Items:

• Toiletries (toothbrush, soap, towels)
• Medications and prescriptions
• Change of clothes for each person
• Phone chargers and electronics
• Basic first-aid kit

Household Items:

• Toilet paper and paper towels
• Trash bags
• Snacks and bottled water
• Basic tools (screwdriver, hammer)
• Flashlight with batteries

📄 Organize Important Documents

Keep all essential documents in a clearly marked folder that travels with you—never pack these in moving boxes.

✓ Passports, driver's licenses, and identification
✓ Birth certificates and social security cards
✓ Medical records and insurance information
✓ Moving contract and inventory list
✓ Financial documents and checkbook

🔧 Disassemble Large Furniture

Seven days prior is the ideal time to start disassembling larger pieces of furniture. This saves time on moving day and ensures safer transport.

✓ Disassemble bed frames, dressers, and desks
✓ Remove table legs if applicable
✓ Place all screws and hardware in labeled plastic bags
✓ Tape bags to the corresponding furniture piece

Pro Tip: If you're not comfortable disassembling furniture yourself, ask your moving company if they offer this service. At Locally Swift, we handle furniture disassembly and reassembly as part of our comprehensive moving service.

🧹 Declutter and Donate

Moving is the perfect opportunity to lighten your load. Donate or dispose of items you no longer need.

✓ Donate sealed, non-perishable food to local food banks
✓ Clear fridge, freezer, and pantry of open foods
✓ Drop off unwanted furniture and clothing at donation centers
✓ Properly dispose of hazardous materials (paint, batteries, chemicals)

One Day Before Moving Day

The day before your move is all about final preparations and double-checking everything. This is your last chance to catch anything you might have missed.

📦 Complete All Packing

All packing should be 100% complete before moving day. Professional movers are trained to transport—not to pack your belongings.

✓ Seal and label all remaining boxes clearly with room names
✓ Mark boxes containing fragile items with "FRAGILE" on all sides
✓ Create an inventory list of all boxes and furniture
✓ Set aside valuables (jewelry, cash, small electronics) to transport personally

❄️ Prepare Appliances

Major appliances need special preparation before transport. Failing to prepare them properly can lead to damage.

✓ Unplug and defrost your refrigerator/freezer (allow 24 hours to fully defrost)
✓ Disconnect washing machine and dishwasher
✓ Secure or remove loose parts (shelves, racks, hoses)
✓ Clean and dry all appliances to prevent mold and odors

Important Note: Most moving companies will not disconnect major appliances for liability reasons. However, they can transport them once disconnected. If you need help, consider hiring a professional appliance installer to handle disconnection and reconnection.

💡 Confirm Utilities at New Location

Double-check that utilities will be active when you arrive at your new home. There's nothing worse than moving into a home without electricity, water, or internet.

✓ Confirm electricity, gas, and water services are scheduled to start
✓ Verify internet and cable installation appointments
✓ Schedule disconnection at your old residence for the day after your move

💵 Prepare Payment and Tip Money

Have payment ready and cash for tips. It's customary to tip movers based on the quality of service.

✓ Confirm payment method with moving company (cash, check, card)
✓ Get cash for tipping: $20 per mover for half-day moves (4 hours or less), $50-60 per mover for full-day moves (12+ hours)
✓ Keep cash in a safe, easily accessible place

Moving Day Morning

The big day is here! Follow these steps to ensure everything runs smoothly from start to finish.

🏠 Conduct a Final Walkthrough

Before the movers arrive, walk through your entire home to catch any last-minute items.

✓ Check all closets, cabinets, drawers, and storage areas
✓ Look in the attic, basement, garage, and shed
✓ Remove all items from walls (art, mirrors, shelves)
✓ Check hidden areas like behind doors and under beds

🧊 Prepare Refreshments for Movers

Moving is physically demanding work. Providing refreshments is a thoughtful gesture that professional movers appreciate.

✓ Have bottled water readily available throughout the day
✓ Offer coffee in the morning or energy drinks
✓ Show movers where the restroom is located
✓ Keep snacks available (granola bars, fruit, etc.)

🚪 Clear Pathways

Make the movers' job easier and safer by creating clear pathways from rooms to the truck.

✓ Remove any obstacles from hallways and doorways
✓ Secure pets in a safe room or arrange pet care for the day
✓ Keep children away from movers for safety
✓ Mark or communicate clearly which items are NOT being moved

👥 Provide a Brief Home Tour

When movers arrive, walk them through your home to set expectations and highlight important details.

✓ Show movers where they can park their truck safely
✓ Point out any items that require special care (antiques, fragile items)
✓ Indicate furniture that needs disassembly
✓ Stay available throughout the move to answer questions

Common Moving Day Mistakes to Avoid

Learn from others' mistakes! Here are the most common errors we see:

❌ Not finishing packing on time

Rushed packing leads to broken items and disorganization. Complete packing at least one day before the move.

❌ Forgetting to confirm parking permits

In urban areas, moving trucks need parking permits. Failing to secure these can delay your entire move.

❌ Not labeling boxes clearly

Unlabeled boxes create chaos at your new home. Label all sides of boxes with the destination room.

❌ Underestimating time requirements

Moves almost always take longer than expected. Build in buffer time and don't schedule other commitments for moving day.

❌ Forgetting to measure doorways and furniture

Measure large furniture and doorways beforehand to avoid surprises. Some items may need to be disassembled or won't fit.

Why Professional Movers Make All the Difference

Even with the best preparation, moving day can be overwhelming. That's where professional movers with proper equipment make all the difference.

🔧 Professional Equipment

At Locally Swift, our hydraulic liftgate handles items up to 2,000 lbs—refrigerators, safes, heavy furniture. We have professional dollies, moving blankets, and straps to ensure safe transport.

⚡ Same-Day Service Available

Need to move today? We offer flexible scheduling and same-day service when you need it most. No more waiting weeks for availability.

🛡️ Fully Insured

Your belongings are protected. We're fully insured and take every precaution to ensure safe transport. Peace of mind is included.

💪 15+ Years Experience

Since 2011, we've handled every type of move imaginable. From bounce houses to phone booths—we've moved it all with professionalism and care.

Get Your Free Quote Today →

Transparent pricing • No hidden fees • Professional service

Final Thoughts: Preparation Is Everything

Moving doesn't have to be one of life's most stressful events. With proper preparation and the right professional help, your moving day can be smooth, efficient, and even dare we say—stress-free.

Remember the statistics: 92% of Americans face major moving challenges, but you now have the knowledge to be in the successful 8%. Start preparing one week in advance, confirm all details the day before, and stay organized on moving day morning.

Whether you're moving across town or just need heavy items transported, having professionals with the right equipment makes all the difference. Don't leave it to chance—plan ahead, prepare thoroughly, and partner with experienced movers who have the tools to get the job done right.

Ready to schedule your move?

Locally Swift Transport has been serving our community since 2011. We're equipped to handle moves that others can't—from residential relocations to heavy appliances and specialty items. Our hydraulic liftgate and professional equipment mean we say "yes" when others say "no."

How to Prepare for Moving Day: Complete Checklist