Stress Free Moving Day Guide
Follow these moving day tips for a smooth and simple experience. Our team put together the best advice from helping hundreds of Western New York families move with confidence.
1. Give yourself more time than you think
Moving Day moves faster than a normal day. Start early so you can grab a coffee, get the kids situated with school or a sitter, put pets in a safe spot and knock out any last minute tasks. Keep a small notepad handy so you can jot down reminders as they pop up.
2. Pack your final items and keep them separate
You will always have a few things you need right up until the last moment. Think toothbrushes, chargers, toiletries, medication, blankets and pillows. Put all of these into a clearly marked bag or suitcase and keep it in a secure spot that will not be loaded onto the truck. If you need an extra box or two, your WNY Moving crew will have plenty.
3. Do a quick final clean of your home
Open the fridge and remove anything that needs to be tossed. Check your bathroom, bedrooms and kitchen and give them a quick wipe down. Paper towels and a small cleaning spray will be extremely useful when you arrive at your new place too. If you are renting, keep a simple cleaner and a magic eraser handy for any small marks on walls or doors.
4. Confirm your last few details
Leave a forwarding address for the new resident or building staff. Make sure utilities are scheduled to close out. If you plan to tip your crew, grab cash before the movers arrive so you do not need to leave mid move.
5. Keep your phone close for updates
Your WNY Moving crew will call when they are headed your way. Make sure your phone is charged and the ringer is on. If you have a portable charger, keep it accessible. Check the street for any changes to parking or loading areas and share that with the team.
6. Meet your movers and walk them through your home
Once the crew arrives, give them any important information about access, service entrances, tricky corners or building rules. No one knows your place like you do. Stay nearby for quick questions. Your team will walk through your items with you and confirm the game plan before they begin loading.
7. Let the WNY Moving crew take over
This is the moment you can relax. Let the professionals handle the heavy work. If you have questions, ask. If you have suggestions, share them. Our goal is to make you feel supported from start to finish. A member of our office team may also check in during your move to make sure things are going smoothly.
8. Let your arrival contact know your estimated timing
As the truck gets close to being fully loaded, give anyone meeting you at your new place a heads up. If someone is bringing the keys, confirm the timing again. Make sure you have the phone number for your movers in case you get delayed on the way there.
9. Secure your current home before you leave
Close windows, lock doors, empty trash, remove leftover items and do one last sweep of each room. Leave keys or access items as arranged with your landlord or building. If you are renting, take photos of each room for your records before you leave.
10. Meet the truck at your new home
Once you arrive, help guide the crew through the same arrival process as earlier. Make sure the team has the correct entry point. Walk them through where furniture and boxes should go. If you are renting, take condition photos before items begin coming inside so you have a clean record.
11. Confirm essential utilities are working
Check that electricity, hot water and internet are active. These are the basics that help you settle in quickly. Also check that any young children or pets will be safe inside by looking at doors, windows and fences.
12. Complete the final walk through with your movers
When the unloading is complete the crew will walk through your new home with you and make sure everything is placed correctly. This is a good time to double check furniture placement or ask for adjustments. When you are satisfied, sign the completion paperwork and tip the team if you choose.
13. Start with the essentials and settle in slowly
Give the kitchen and bathroom a simple wipe down so you can begin using them. Set up bedrooms first so you have a comfortable place to sleep. Your essentials bag with chargers, toiletries and medicine will keep you covered while you work through the boxes. Expect the first few days to feel a little unorganized and give yourself some grace. You will find your rhythm quickly.
If you still have a few address updates to complete, such as banks, insurance, registration or subscription accounts, set reminders to take care of them during the week.
