As moving day approaches, the list of tasks can seem overwhelming, and it’s natural to feel like there’s so much left to do. From packing up the last few boxes to making sure everything is ready for transport, the final details can often feel like the most stressful part of the process. However, preparing the day before your move is crucial to ensuring that everything goes smoothly. Taking care of a few last-minute tasks in advance will save you time, reduce stress, and help you avoid any unexpected surprises on moving day. Whether it’s organizing your essentials or confirming the logistics with your movers, these small steps can make a big difference. To help you stay on top of everything, we’ve put together 10 essential last-minute moving tips to complete before the big day.
1. Defrost and Clean Your Refrigerator and Freezer
The day before your move, unplug your refrigerator and freezer to allow them to defrost. Remove all food items and wipe down the interior to prevent odors and moisture buildup. Make sure the appliance is completely dry to avoid leaks or mold during transport. Once cleaned and dried, leave the doors slightly open to allow airflow, keeping it fresh for when it’s reconnected at your new home. This simple step prevents issues and ensures your fridge is ready for use as soon as you arrive.
2. Pack a Personal Essentials Bag
The day before your move, pack a personal essentials bag with everything you’ll need for the first 24 to 48 hours in your new home. Include toiletries, a change of clothes, medications, important documents, chargers, and any items you’ll need immediately upon arrival. This bag ensures you have easy access to necessities without having to unpack multiple boxes right away. Having these essentials on hand will help make your first day in your new home more comfortable and stress-free.
3. Confirm Moving Company Details
The day before your move, double-check all the details with your moving company to avoid any last-minute surprises. Confirm the time they’ll arrive, the services you’ve booked, and the addresses for both your old and new homes. If any specific instructions are needed, such as parking arrangements or access codes, be sure to communicate these as well. This quick check ensures everyone is on the same page and helps your moving day run smoothly.
4. Unplug and Prepare Electronics for Transport
Unplug and safely pack your electronics the day before your move. Start by disconnecting all devices such as TVs, computers, and gaming consoles. Label and bundle cords to keep them organized and prevent tangling. Use original boxes if available, or wrap electronics in protective materials like bubble wrap and pack them in sturdy boxes. Properly preparing your electronics ensures they arrive at your new home safely and in working condition.
5. Label Boxes Clearly
Before the movers arrive, ensure all boxes are clearly labeled with their contents and the room they belong to in your new home. This will help movers know where to place each box, saving you time during the unpacking process. For fragile items, make sure to add “Fragile” on the box so it’s handled with care. Proper labeling not only makes moving easier but also helps prevent damage to your belongings during transport.
6. Disassemble Any Large Furniture
If disassembly isn’t provided by your hired movers, take time the day before your move to disassemble large furniture like beds, tables, or shelving units. Keep screws, bolts, and small parts in labeled bags taped to the furniture to avoid losing them. Doing this ahead of time will save effort on moving day, prevent damage to bulky items, and make reassembly in your new home much simpler.
7. Dispose of or Pack Any Remaining Perishable Foods
The day before your move, go through your refrigerator, freezer, and pantry to dispose of or pack any perishable food items. Use coolers for any food you plan to transport yourself, but try to consume or donate items that won’t survive the move. Movers typically cannot transport perishable goods, so plan accordingly to avoid waste or spoilage. This step ensures you don’t have to worry about food during the move and keeps your packing organized.
8. Do a Final Walkthrough of Your Home
Before moving day, do a final walkthrough of your home to make sure nothing has been forgotten. Check all closets, cabinets, and storage spaces for any items that may have been missed during packing. Make sure to double-check frequently overlooked areas like attics, basements, and garage spaces. This last check ensures that nothing important is left behind and gives you peace of mind before moving.
9. Ensure Utilities Are Set Up at Your New Home
The day before your move, confirm that essential utilities like electricity, water, and internet are set up and activated at your new home. This ensures that you’ll have everything you need as soon as you arrive. If any installations or service visits are required, make sure they’re scheduled to avoid delays. This step helps you settle in smoothly without any disruptions.
10. Get a Good Night’s Rest Before Moving Day
Moving can be physically and mentally exhausting, so it’s important to get a good night’s rest before the big day. Try to finish all your packing and prep work early, so you have time to relax and unwind the evening before. A good night’s sleep will ensure you’re energized and ready to handle the challenges of moving day with a clear mind and less stress.
Preparing for a move can feel overwhelming, but tackling these last-minute tasks the day before will set you up for a smooth and stress-free moving day. From defrosting your fridge to packing a personal essentials bag, taking care of these details in advance ensures that you’re organized and ready when the movers arrive. With everything in place, you can focus on the excitement of settling into your new home and avoid any last-minute chaos. Following these tips will help make your move as efficient and stress-free as possible!
Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can assist you with your upcoming relocation. We offer free, no-obligation moving quotes, so you can start planning your move with confidence. Let Condor Moving Systems take the stress out of your move and ensure your belongings arrive safely at your new home!