How to Prepare Your Home for the Movers: A Comprehensive Guide

Jan 02, 2026By Jody Stark
Jody Stark

Moving to a new home can be both exciting and overwhelming. To ensure a smooth transition, it's essential to prepare your home for the movers. By organizing and planning ahead, you can save time and reduce stress on moving day.

Start with a Clean Slate

Before the movers arrive, clean and declutter your home. This will make packing easier and more efficient. Sort through your belongings and decide what to keep, donate, or discard.

  • Go room by room and identify items you no longer need.
  • Donate gently used items to local charities.
  • Dispose of broken or unusable items responsibly.
home cleaning

Organize and Label

Proper organization is key to a successful move. Start by packing non-essential items in advance. Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to.

  • Use color-coded labels or markers for easy identification.
  • Create an inventory list to keep track of your belongings.
  • Label fragile items to ensure careful handling.

Additionally, consider packing a box of essentials you'll need immediately after the move, such as toiletries, a change of clothes, and basic kitchen supplies.

Prepare Large Items

For larger items like furniture and appliances, ensure they are ready for transport. Disassemble furniture if possible and secure all parts in labeled bags.

  1. Wrap furniture in blankets or bubble wrap to protect against scratches and dents.
  2. Unplug and defrost the refrigerator at least 24 hours before moving day.
  3. Secure loose parts of appliances with tape or protective covers.
disassembled furniture

Communicate with Your Movers

Effective communication with your moving team is crucial. Provide them with clear instructions and any special requests regarding certain items or areas of the home.

  • Inform movers of any fragile or valuable items that need special attention.
  • Discuss the layout of your new home to facilitate efficient unloading.
  • Exchange contact information with the moving team for easy communication.
movers communication

Safety First

Ensure your home is safe for the movers by clearing pathways and removing any obstacles. This will help prevent accidents and injuries during the move.

  • Keep walkways and stairs clear of boxes and debris.
  • Secure pets in a safe area to avoid interference.
  • Ensure all light fixtures and railings are secure and functional.

By following these steps, you'll create a more organized and stress-free moving experience. With careful preparation, you can focus on the excitement of settling into your new home.