Surviving Moving Day

Essential Moving Day Items

Do not transport important documents like passports, tax records, etc. with your mover. Keep more expensive jewelry and items with you as well.

Carry a first aid Kit

On moving day, keep a first aid kit with you in the car

Keep your new home’s keys with you

Before leaving for your new home, make sure you have the keys with you and that they are easily accessible.

Carry some cash

In case of emergency, it is best to have enough to cover any expenses until you are settled in.

Carry your medicines with you

If you take prescription medications, make sure you have these packed and nearby.

Keep important phone numbers with you

Some important numbers to have at-hand are your moving company’s and your real estate agent’s.

Night essentials

If you are traveling to your new home via car and you have to do an overnight drive, keep all the essentials you would require for the night in the chance that you must stay somewhere overnight before continuing your journey.

Pet supplies

If you are moving and bringing a pet with you in the car, remember to bring necessary items for your pet’s well being such as food, treats, medicine and cleaning supplies in case of an accident.

Essentials for the first night in your new home

If you are reaching your new home before the rest of your items arrive, bring with you any necessary items you will require during the waiting period. Some ideas include: a change of clothes, toiletries (toothbrush, shampoo, soap, towels, etc.), and food (basics, as well as plates and utensils).

Tool kit

Bring important items such as: a screwdriver, pen and paper, matches /lighter, and possibly light bulbs.

Essentials for children

If you have children traveling with you, some essentials for your trip include:

Baby food, juice and a can opener
Toys
Baby wipes and baby powder
Dry formula (easy to prepare and doesn’t need refrigeration
Blankets
Collapsible stroller
Water

Moving Day Checklist

Inspect all rooms to be sure everything is packed and ready to be moved. Double check the closets, cupboards, attic, garage and basements.
Pack your personal bag. Keep in it essential items like clothes, medicines, and toiletries that you would need during the move. Also, keep all important documents and jewelry inside it. Keep it in a place that’s not accessible to the movers. If you have kids, pack their favorite toy or games which can keep them busy during the move.
Get rid of any clutter before the movers arrive. An organized work space helps the movers do their job smoothly.
If you have kids or pets, it is best to get someone to watch them. Set aside a room for them where they can play when the movers do their work.
Have cash in hand.

When the movers arrive:

Give them a tour of your house and show them the items that they need to be moved. Be with the crew chief when he prepares the inventory list.
Give them a map of where your new home is.
Show them the plan of the new house so that they are aware of which boxes/furniture goes where.
Read the bill of lading properly.
Take the crew chief’s contact number. Also, give your mobile telephone number in case the movers want to contact you while the shipment is in transit.
Do an inspection of the truck.
Be available to assist the movers should they have any questions.

When loading the items in the truck make sure the items you’ll need first are loaded last.

Check if the meters have been read.

Before leaving, check to see that all utilities are turned off. Also, make sure all the windows and door are locked, and throw away any leftover garbage.

Leave your forwarding address and phone number with a neighbor just in case you need to be reached.