What to do on Move Day!

Your countdown is over! Today is the day it all finally happens- moving day! You wake up full of excitement and perhaps a little trepidation, worried that something will go awry. But, wait, you’ve planned, you’ve marked off your checklists, you’ve made your arrangements with utility companies, your change of address forms have been sent, and your pet is taken care of. So, what is on the agenda for today?

Gathering Your Important Papers and Items

For starters, you’ll want to make sure your important papers are packed and located with the items you plan to keep with you during the move. You’ll also want to make sure any prescription medications are accessible during your trip and that your contact list will be within easy reach upon arrival. You will also want to have your bag of must haves (i.e. toiletries, a change of clothes, valuables you decided to pack) in a carryon bag if you are flying.

Next on your list are your last minute items such as items that can’t be shipped and your remaining house plants. If you’ve found a few cleaning agents you can’t take with you and just learned that your favorite plants can’t come either, consider giving them to one of your neighbors. At least they will have a new home instead of having to be thrown away.

Prepping for the Movers

Of course, if you hired a company to help you with the move, they will be arriving on moving day. Before their arrival, clear a pathway for the moving van or truck. If there are certain items that you are having shipped or are carrying with you, clearly label these so there is no confusion while things are being packed away. If you can’t be there during the final stages, then make certain you have someone there to direct and answer questions for them.

Your boxes should already be labeled with keywords such as fragile, this end up, and room location so they can be grouped accordingly. One other smart move is to label any boxes you will need immediately upon unpacking (such as cleaning supplies and plastic cups and plates) as “pack this box last.” By having these boxes packed last, they will be the first to be unloaded, insuring they will be handy when you are ready for them.

Make certain before leaving that all travel arrangements for the movers are agreed upon. Verify that the movers have your cell phone number and another number that can be called in the event trouble arises and they can’t reach you. Keep your insurance information handy so that if there is a problem you can call the correct person immediately.

Occupying the Children
Finally, if you are traveling with children, try to have something special to occupy their time during the trip such as a new toy or book. If they are upset about moving this may help distract them for awhile or just ease their boredom.

Enjoy your trip as you embark on the journey to your new home!