You’ve packed your boxes and booked movers, but is your home ready for moving day? Preparing your space by clearing pathways, labeling boxes, protecting floors, setting aside essentials, and coordinating with movers can make your move faster, safer, and less stressful, whether local or long-distance. Early planning ensures a smooth transition to your new home.
Key Takeaways:
- Prepare your home by clearing pathways, labeling boxes clearly, and protecting floors to ensure a smooth and safe moving day.
- Declutter and downsize before packing to reduce moving costs and start fresh in your new home.
- Schedule utility transfers and update your address with all relevant parties well ahead of your move to avoid service interruptions.
- Communicate clearly with your movers and perform a final walkthrough to ensure nothing is left behind and the move goes as planned.
Moving to a new home is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming without the right preparation. The key to a stress free move is to plan ahead and stay organized throughout the moving process. By taking the time to organize your packing and enlisting the help of reputable moving companies, you’ll set yourself up for a seamless move into your new home. Remember, a little planning goes a long way toward a stress free move!
1. Declutter and Downsize Before You Pack
Before you start packing boxes, take the opportunity to declutter and downsize your household items. Go through each room and sort your belongings into three categories: keep, donate, or discard. Hosting a garage sale or listing items on Facebook Marketplace is a great way to sell things you no longer need and offset moving costs. Donate unwanted clothing and gently used household items to local charities or thrift stores. The less you have to pack, the easier and more efficient your move will be. Decluttering not only simplifies the packing process, but also gives you a fresh start in your new home, without the burden of unnecessary items. Start packing only what you truly want to bring with you, and enjoy a lighter, more organized move.
2. Clear Pathways for the Movers
Start by removing anything that could slow down or trip up your moving team.
- Move furniture away from entry points
- Remove area rugs and doormats that could bunch or slide
- Prop doors open or remove them temporarily for tight spaces
- Make sure stairs and hallways are free of boxes and clutter
- Secure pets in a separate room or with a sitter
Creating wide, safe walkways helps your movers work quickly and avoids accidents or damage.
Need more moving-day tips? Read how to avoid stress when moving long distance.
3. Label Boxes Clearly and Group by Room
If you’ve packed thoughtfully, don’t let your organization fall apart on moving day. Use a clear labeling system, like:
- Color-coded stickers by room
- Bold permanent markers for contents
- “FRAGILE” or “LOAD LAST” on top when needed
For the smoothest process, start with one room at a time—pack and label each thoroughly before moving on to the next.
Then group boxes by room or category near the front door or in a central space. This allows movers to load items more efficiently and unpack them in the right order on the other end.
Still figuring out what to pack or leave behind? Check out this moving checklist!
4. Protect Floors, Corners, and Door Frames
Moving can be hard on your house in Warwick RI, especially if you have tight spaces or hardwood floors.
- Use cardboard, towels, or mats to protect floors
- Wrap foam or towels around door frames and corners
- Use packing paper to wrap fragile items like dishes, glasses, and TVs to protect them from damage during the move
- Tape down cords and cover high-traffic areas
A little prep can prevent costly damage to your home as well as your belongings.
5. Set Aside “Do Not Load” Items
There are always a few things you’ll want to keep with you, either for the road trip or for the first night at your new place. These include your everyday essentials. Prepare a clearly marked “do not load” area or bin for:
- Medications and toiletries
- Snacks and water
- Important documents
- Phone and laptop chargers
- A change of clothes
- Kids’ or pets’ items
- Your “first week essentials” box
Keep this bin in your car or in a separate room. Let your movers know not to touch it, and make sure these items are easily accessible during the move and upon arrival at your new home.
Related blog: Long-Distance Moving: The Ultimate Packing Guide
6. Unplug and Prepare Appliances
If you’re taking appliances, they need special attention before moving day:
- Fridge/freezer: Empty, unplug, and defrost at least 24 hours ahead
- Washer/dryer: Disconnect and drain any remaining water
- Gas stove or dryer: Have a professional disconnect any gas lines
- Microwave or small appliances: Clean, wrap, and box securely
Tape doors shut and remove any loose parts or accessories inside the appliances. Movers can help load them but only if they’re prepped and ready.
8. Utilities and Services: Schedule Transfers and Shut-Offs
One of the most important moving tips is to handle your utilities and services well ahead of time. Contact your utility companies and providers in Warwick, RI, such as electricity, gas, water, and trash collection to schedule the shut-off at your current address and the setup at your new place.
Don’t forget to reach out to your internet and cable providers in Warwick, RI to arrange for service transfer or installation at your new home. By scheduling these changes ahead of time, you’ll avoid any service interruptions or unexpected fees. Make sure to update your address with all utility providers, and keep a list of appointment dates for easy reference. Taking care of these details early ensures your new home is ready and comfortable from day one.
9. Notifying Others: Update Your Address
Updating your address is a crucial step in the moving process that’s easy to overlook. Start by filling out a change of address form with the post office in Warwick, RI to ensure your mail is forwarded to your new address. Notify your bank, credit card companies, loan providers, and insurance company of your move so your important documents and statements reach you without delay. Don’t forget to update your driver’s license and voter registration in Warwick, RI to reflect your new location. Let your friends and family know your new address. Consider sending a group email or message to keep everyone in the loop. Also, remember to update your address with any online services or subscriptions you use, so you don’t miss a beat after your move.
10. Communicate Clearly with Your Movers
Don’t assume your moving crew knows all the details, especially if it’s a long-distance move or a large home.
- Confirm details with your local movers, including arrival time, licensing, and any special requirements.
- Provide instructions on where to park the moving truck (and reserve space if needed)
- Coordinate the loading and unloading of the moving truck, considering truck size and access.
- Let them know about stairs, elevators, or tight access
- Point out anything fragile or requiring special handling
- Do a final walk-through to make sure nothing is left behind
After confirming with your movers, make travel arrangements for yourself, family members, and pets to ensure everyone arrives at your new home smoothly.
Still comparing companies? Here’s how to choose the right mover for your long-distance move.
11. Final Check: Walk Through Before You Leave
Before you say goodbye to your old home in Warwick, RI, take time for a thorough final check. Walk through each room to make sure all your belongings are packed and nothing is left behind, especially household items, important documents, or valuables. Double-check closets, cabinets, and storage spaces for any overlooked items. Ensure all doors and windows are closed and locked, and turn off all lights and appliances. Take final meter readings and notify your utility providers in Warwick, RI of your move-out date to avoid extra charges. Don’t forget to return your keys to your landlord or real estate agent. With everything packed and checked, you can look forward to settling into your new space and enjoying your new home with peace of mind.
Conclusion: A Prepped Home Makes for a Smoother Move
When your home is organized, safe, and ready for your movers, you’ll save time, prevent damage, and ease the stress of moving day. Being prepared and organized ensures a smooth transition to your final destination, no matter where it may be. It’s not just about boxes, it’s about making the space work for the people helping you relocate.
Trust RA Movers for Your Next Move
RA Movers is committed to providing reliable, efficient, and professional moving services tailored to your needs. Our experienced team ensures your belongings are handled with care, making your move smooth and hassle-free. Whether it’s a local move or a long-distance relocation, RA Movers is the partner you can count on.
Don’t wait. Contact us today to schedule your move and experience the exceptional service RA Movers offers!
FAQs
Q: When should I start preparing my home for moving day?
Start 2–3 days in advance, with most tasks done the night before.
Q: How do I protect my floors and walls during a move?
Use blankets, cardboard, or furniture pads on corners, door frames, and flooring.
Q: What should I keep with me during the move?
Your essentials box, important documents, medications, chargers, and valuables.
Q: Should I be home when movers arrive?
Yes, at least for the start of the move. Walk them through the layout and confirm any special instructions.
Q: How do I update my address when moving?
Notify the post office, banks, utility providers, and any subscription services of your new address. It's a good idea to add updating your address to your moving to-do list to ensure you don't miss any important contacts.
