Moving is rarely ever easy, but you can take some steps to make the process simpler and more seamless. You’ll need to start with some legwork (What moving truck will you use? Do you understand everything that goes into moving? Are you moving to a new state?), but the effort is well worth it when you can look forward to a painless move-out day.
How to Have A Quick, Painless Move-Out Day
One of the key components of moving is the move-out day itself. No matter how well-prepared you are, even the best-laid plans can go awry on moving day. That’s why it’s important to plan for what you want and be prepared for what you don’t want.
Below, we’ve put together the ultimate guide to a quick and painless move-out day. Follow these steps, and you’ll be out of your old home and into the new before you can say, “Help!”
Plan Ahead! Make a To-Do List
One of the best tips we can give you for a painless move-out day? Plan ahead! Moving brings up enough uncertainties without needing to use guesswork on your actual move day.
The ideal moving day to-do list will include:
- Plans for safe spaces for children and pets during the move
- Ensuring utilities remain on during the move
- Plans for food, drinks, and first aid while moving
- Assignments for individual tasks (especially if you’re doing a DIY move)
Keep Your Phone Fully Charged
We can’t stress this one enough! You may need to get into contact with any number of a variety of people during your move-out day. Instead of being caught without a way to do that, keep your phone charged all day long. You’ll be grateful you did when it’s time to make a last-minute call or you need to connect with your movers before they arrive.
Get up Early and Eat a Good Breakfast
If you can get an early start with a great breakfast and a full stomach, you’ll be well-prepared for a painless move-out day. Skip foods that will make you feel bloated or tired — and stay away from the ones that aren’t very filling, too.
It doesn’t matter whether your move starts at 8 AM sharp or your movers won’t be arriving until noon. The easiest way to stay on top of your move is to be awake bright and early to keep tabs on everything.
Get Dressed — and Wear the Right Clothes
There are definitely some clothes that are right for move-out day and some that aren’t. It’s always a good idea to think your moving day outfit out before the day arrives. Wear comfortable, breathable, flexible clothes that you aren’t afraid of tearing or staining.
There’s a reason that the pros don’t wear sandals, shorts, or dresses on move-out day. You don’t want to be injured or ruin your clothes while you try to pack up your items. Wear close-fitting clothing and plan for any potential weather impacts like snow or rain.
Pack a Cooler
Packing a cooler is a great way to make sure that you and your moving team stay refreshed throughout the day. If you can include some grab-and-go snacks in the cooler, even better. It’s also a good way to transport food from your fridge or freezer during the move.
Pack Last-Minute Items
For a painless move-out day, you should have already minimized any moving day packing that might be required. If you do have last-minute items that need packing, though, the move-out day is definitely your last chance to handle them. Be careful not to rush your packing too much: improperly packed items are at risk.
Greet Your Movers
Never assume that your movers know exactly what you want. Instead, take your time to give them a friendly greeting and then spend a while going over everyone’s expectations for the move. Ensure that boxes are easy-to-reach and clearly labeled. Discuss what you want (with specifics) during the move, and make sure that the movers are on the same page.
Keep an Eye on the Move
It’s always a good idea to moderate a move as it happens. You shouldn’t pressure your movers or hover near them while they work, but you should be around to keep an eye on things and answer questions. This will help ensure that the move goes quickly and smoothly.
Do a Final Sweep of Your Home
We all intend to be careful when we’re moving out. Nobody plans to leave something behind or miss a task on their way out of their home.
With that said, it’s easy for details and items to be overlooked in the chaos of move-out day (even a painless move-out day). It’s easier to collect your things while you still live somewhere than it is to double back and try to recover items later. You should conduct a thorough inspection to ensure that you have done and taken everything you want to. If possible, have somebody else help. Two perspectives are stronger than one.
Pro Tip for a Painless Move-Out Day
Don’t forget areas that aren’t often used! Check attics, sheds, etc.
Tip Your Movers
Tipping your movers is optional, but it’s always a good idea. You would probably love a tip, too, after hauling furniture back and forth all day. Consider budgeting for this tip ahead of time in order to ensure you’re ready to afford it on move-out day. It’s an easy way to thank your movers and help them see that their work is valued.
Make sure you pay attention to the movers and the moving process throughout the day. You can tip based on how satisfied you are with how the day went.
Pets: Quick Tips for a Painless Move-Out Day
Moving with pets adds another layer of challenge to the process. We all love our furry (and scaly and feathered) friends, but how can we actually get them from point A to point B during a move?
We’ve written two excellent guides to help you start. But here’s what you really need to know:
- Moving with a cat to a new home:
- Opt for lighter meals on moving day; bring a little food for during travel.
- Give your cat access to fresh water at all times (including in their crate).
- Place your cat in his or her crate early in the day to help keep them safe.
- Make sure you give your cat plenty of time to adjust when you arrive at your new home.
- Moving with fish to a new home:
- Carefully remove your fish from the tank, and prepare them for safe travel.
- Drain and clean the fish tank. Never move a tank with water, even if it’s only a short distance.
- Move the tank and fish carefully.
Specific Tips and Tricks for Move-Out Day
There are endless helpful little tips and tricks that can make a world of difference when it comes time to move homes. We have a collection of guides to help make moving some of your possessions easier. We recommend checking out:
- How to Move a Washer and Dryer
- How to Move a Treadmill: A Comprehensive Guide
- How to Move a Couch: A Complete Guide
- How to Move a Mattress or a Sleep Number Bed
- How to Move a Refrigerator: A Step-by-Step Guide
- How to Move a Grandfather Clock
- How to Move a Piano: A Comprehensive Guide
If you have more questions about moving your belongings, we always recommend asking your movers for more advice. If you’re DIYing your move, try to get in touch with other people who have moved successfully. Ask which methods they’ve used to help move tricky items or keep large possessions safe.
Congrats on Your Move!
After moving day is over, we want to be the first to congratulate you! Moving is time- and labor-intensive. Your efforts now can make a big difference in how move-out day plays out for you. Following the guide above should make the process easier. Now, the real fun begins: unpacking!
