How to Avoid Surprises on Moving Day
Moving day. That one day when you're crossing your fingers, everything runs smoothly, goes to plan, and nothing upsets the delicate balance you have going on. And for the most part, it's generally not the huge aspects of moving that unravel everything; it's a small thread that got missed and suddenly being pulled, sending everything else into a spiral.
Avoiding surprises come moving isn't about planning harder; it's about knowing the less glamorous aspects of the process, so ticking them off so you've covered all of your bases.
Secure Access at Both Properties
Access issues will stop your move before things even get going. You need to make sure you have keys collected for your property, and you know any access codes or requirements for gaining access to move in, for things like alarms or gated communities. Check if elevators need to be reserved in managed buildings or for apartment blocks, and if there are specific move-in or move-out windows you need to adhere to.
If you need a property manager present or an agent, then confirm with them when they will be there to coordinate timings ahead of time. Ensure you can access all doors, gates, and garages before you need to use them, so nothing disrupts the flow.
Arrange Parking and Loading Space Before Moving Day
Parking is one of the most underrated and overlooked aspects of moving day. You need to be able to park as close as possible to your properties for the duration of the move. Know local parking rules in advance and secure permits if required. If you're using a driveway, check that it's clear, and you can access it easily. If it's on-street parking, can you be sure you can get the space to park your moving vehicles to unload them?
Try to visit the area beforehand and identify safe stopping points if your primary location isn't available.
Book the Right Level of Moving Support
When you source your moving services, double-check they're providing what you expect them to. There are different levels of support, different exclusions for services, and you need to know before they arrive what is and isn't included. Do they take heavy equipment? Disassemble and reassemble? Do they pack for you or just load up the van? How do they treat fragile items, and how long do you have them booked for? All small details are easy to overlook, but all impact the moving day experience for you. Expert movers will share with you what to expect on the day and confirm your package details and services rendered for that price.
Confirm Utilities, Services, and Address Changes
Moving into a property that has no running water, power, or internet isn't anyone's idea of fun. Confirm utility transfers ahead of time and that everything you need will be activated for the move-in date, not scheduled sometime in that week. As soon as you have access, test all essentials like water and electricity.
Don't forget to set up redirects to your mail and change addresses with all providers and impacted parties like your doctor, dentist, schools, workplace, insurance, etc., and don't forget to update your delivery addresses too.
