So it’s time to start preparing for your move and you’re overwhelmed. We know there are many things to do before Moving Day, which is why we created this handy checklist. Plan an easy move with our Moving Day tips and learn the essential items you will want to check off your list before the day arrives.

Moving Day Checklist Item #1: Relocating Kids and Pets

Kids and pets can be hard to keep track of in the midst of a move. Arrange beforehand to have someone watch the kids or set up activities for them while you pack and load. Here are some ideas for your kids and pets:

• Hire a babysitter or pet sitter for the day.

• Assign age-appropriate tasks and responsibilities to each of your kids to keep them occupied and to help them feel useful and involved in the transition.

• Pack a separate bag for each of your kids and pets with their favorite toys, blankets, and snacks.

Moving Day Checklist Item #2: Parking

Another great Moving Day tip is to figure out where your truck can park during loading and unloading. Research your current location (as well as the location you’re moving to) and ensure your truck can be parked legally and accessibly. Keep in mind the following:

• Does either location need a permit (some cities require these)?

• Are there any truck restrictions? Some cities don't allow moving trucks within city limits.

• What are the schedules for trash and recycling pickup and street sweeping?

• Does your city allow you to reserve street parking for the moving van?

Moving Day Checklist Item #3: Have Everything Ready

Unless you are opting for professional packing services from your moving company, all of your belongings should be packed and ready to be loaded into the moving van by the time your moving crew arrives on Moving Day. This includes removing and packing all pictures and wall art as well as breaking down and packing lamps into boxes. Every box should be labeled with both its contents and the room to which it will be delivered. A few boxes that contain important items like bedding should be labeled “load last, unload first” to help you get settled quickly.

Moving Day Checklist Item #4: Know Where Things Belong

Be ready to direct your movers where to place your boxes and furniture in your new home. Have a floor plan in hand to help you quickly give your movers directions. Label boxes clearly with each room's name to help the unload process move smoothly and quickly. We highly recommend color-coded labels! Your movers will appreciate the direction and your move will be completed sooner, saving you money.

Moving Day Checklist Item #5: Food Transportation

Your food preparation for Moving Day will differ greatly if you are moving locally versus moving a long distance. If you are moving a long distance or putting your fridge into storage for any length of time, you will need to completely empty and defrost the fridge and let it sit empty, open, and unplugged for a few days before Moving Day to ensure that there is no moisture inside by the time the movers load it into the moving van or storage. With that in mind, try to consume all your perishables before Moving Day!

If you are moving locally, generally your fridge will be unplugged for only a few hours and will be able to keep its contents cold during transport. However, you will need to remove fragile and “spillable” items before your movers handle the fridge, so it will be a good idea to have your own cooler available to transport these items yourself.

Whether your move is local or over a long distance, you and your family will still need to eat during the transition! Since your kitchen will be packed up and on its way to your new home, arrange in advance for snacks and meals for the family, including your pets, perhaps even the moving crew. Speaking of which…

Moving Day Checklist Item #6: Take Care of Your Movers

Your Moving Day may be the beginning of a long-term relationship with your moving company, even your moving crew! Start the day off right by introducing yourself and getting to know the names of your moving crew. They will greatly appreciate knowing how you prefer to be called, and once you know their names, you can request or refer them to others by name.

As mentioned in Moving Day Checklist #5, it’s important to plan for food on Moving Day. It’s not always convenient for you to rush off to pick up food in the middle of Moving Day, and likewise for your moving crew. Those moving vans navigate through parking lots slowly! By arranging for an ice chest of cold drinks, snacks, and lunch for the crew, you can show your appreciation for their professionalism and help the day to go smoothly.

Another great way to say thank you to your moving crew is to provide a gratuity. If you opt to tip your crew, arrange to have the tip ready by the time they finish your move.

These tokens of appreciation and extra care go a long way.

Camelot Can Help with Your Move

Camelot Moving & Storage is here to help you tick all of the Moving Day checklist items off your list. We also help move, pack, and store your belongings. Our Moving Day tips and tricks will ensure your move is successful (and maybe even fun). Contact us today to schedule your professional movers.