How do I prepare my old home for movers?
Properly preparing your current home for the moving team creates an efficient, safe working environment that protects both your property and belongings. Thoughtful preparation can significantly speed up the moving process and prevent unnecessary damage or complications.
Decluttering and Final Decisions Complete your decluttering process well before moving day. Remove or dispose of items you won’t be taking to avoid confusion for the moving team. Make final decisions about questionable items rather than leaving these choices for moving day when time pressure can lead to poor decisions.
Deep Cleaning Preparation While you don’t need to deep clean before movers arrive, do basic cleaning to provide a pleasant working environment. Focus on areas that will be exposed once furniture is moved, as it’s much easier to clean these spaces before items are relocated rather than after.
Protecting Your Property Lay down protective coverings on high-traffic areas, especially floors, carpets, and stairs that movers will use frequently. Use cardboard, plastic sheeting, or specialized floor protection materials. Remove or secure any decorative items, artwork, or fragile objects from areas where movers will be working.
Creating Clear Pathways Remove obstacles from hallways, doorways, and staircases to create the widest possible paths for moving furniture and boxes. Temporarily relocate items like plants, decorative objects, or small furniture that could impede movement. Ensure outdoor pathways are also clear and well-lit.
Utility and System Preparations Turn off alarm systems or provide codes to prevent accidental activation during the move. Ensure adequate lighting in all areas where movers will work. If moving during hot weather, consider adjusting air conditioning to keep workers comfortable and prevent overheating.
Preparing Specific Areas Empty and clean out refrigerators, freezers, and other appliances at least 24 hours before moving day. Drain water from washing machines, hot tubs, and other water-containing equipment. Secure or remove any loose fittings, hardware, or accessories that could be damaged or lost during the move.
Final Organization Tasks Group remaining items by room and clearly label everything that’s packed. Create a designated area for items that are staying behind to avoid confusion. Prepare an “essentials” box with items you’ll need immediately at your new home, and keep this separate from other boxes.
Communication Setup Ensure good cell phone reception throughout your home or identify landline locations for communication with the moving team. Have contact information readily available for the moving company, your real estate agent, and any other relevant parties. Prepare a list of any special instructions or concerns for the moving team leader.