Moving day has finally arrived after all the hard work in preparation. You’ve followed the handy Conroy’s removal planner, packed your house into boxes, and are now waiting for the truck to arrive. When tackling big jobs like moving house, there are so many tasks involved, so it’s easy to feel like you’ve forgotten something.
Moving day is the final push after weeks or even months of preparation. We all react differently to the wait before a major move. You could be excited, anxious or just plain tired out. We’ve put together five key tips to put your mind at ease before the arrival of the truck.
1. Do a full and final sweep of the house
Work your way through your house in every room, attic, basement, shed and garage to make sure you haven’t left anything behind. Search every shelf, drawer and cupboard. Look through the wardrobe. Look underneath cupboards. Check the tops of the kitchen and bathroom cabinetry, including any surface above eye level. Keep one box open in case you find any stray items.
Top tip: Don’t pack toilet paper or soap. Everyone will still need these items right up to the moment you leave, including your movers. Don’t worry about leaving them behind. It’s polite to leave toilet paper and soap for the new owners, who will have those items packed in a box.
2. Check parking and access
The two most important things to check for your movers are that they can park as close to your home as possible and have clear access. Check there is parking space available and walk the route from the truck to your house, clearing obstacles, opening gates and so forth.
If the truck will affect your neighbours, remind them it’s coming in case they need to move their car. Every home is different, so you’ll know what could impede your movers. Clear as many obstacles as you can, and your move will go more smoothly.
Top tip: Consider access inside your home as part of this process. Most professional moving companies use floor runners, but you can put down old mats or blankets to provide access into your house so the movers don’t need to remove their boots.
3. Get ready for handover
You may have done many of these tasks already, but it pays to check you’re ready for handover for the new residents of the property.
Final checks:
- Prepare a set of keys for the new owners.
- Cancel or transfer your phone plans, internet service, water, power, gas and any other amenities.
- Is everything clean?
- Do you need to provide handover instructions for any special features in the home?
- Are the air conditioning remotes in their cradles?
Top tip: If you have a lot of keys for your home, it’s thoughtful to put all the spares in one location and label what they’re for. Wouldn’t you appreciate that gesture when you arrive at your new home?
4. Hydrate and keep your energy levels up
Moving is hard work, even if you aren’t doing any of the heavy lifting. Don’t forget to have drinks and snacks on hand to stay hydrated and keep your energy up. You may miss your usual lunch time or need to eat on the run, so plan in advance how everyone will get fed.
Top tip: Invite your movers to help themselves to refreshments and snacks. It isn’t necessary, but it will be appreciated.
5. Pack your car
Pack your car with your overnight bags, valuables and personal documents, your essentials moving box and any other items you’re carrying for your move. Once your movers have loaded the truck and are on their way, you’ll probably leave your house for the last time. Have a final walk around for peace of mind.
Top tip: Remember that open box? Keep it handy after the movers have gone if you can, just in case anything gets forgotten or mysteriously turns up. Now you can tape it shut, load it into your car and head on your way.