Moving day can creep up on you before you know it. Hopefully you find yourself prepared when the day rolls around and not in a state of panic as you realize all the things you still have left to do. (Our moving day checklist can help you feel calm and ready for your move!) Moving day is the home stretch of your moving process, and a little planning will help it be a fast and easy process. Here's some moving day etiquette and tips to make it a stress-free experience. It should go without saying to have your packing done ahead of time, but you'd be surprised how many people are still scrambling to finish when the movers arrive. Preserve your sanity by being ready to go on moving day. Labeling your boxes to indicate which room they are going to will also prove to be a huge time saver for your move and later when you are unpacking. At the very least make sure boxes with fragile items are marked. Pro mover tip: Move valuables such as cash, jewelry, and important documents in your own vehicle. This gives peace of mind to both you and your movers. Other important items such as prescription medications should also be with you. If you have pets, you'll want to make sure they aren't underfoot while your movers are working. Keeping them contained in a separate room or in a kennel will ensure the movers don't trip over them and that they don't get outside (keep in mind doors will be propped open). If you have children, arranging a play date or having a friend or family member take them for the day might be a good idea. Children can get easily bored or even stressed by all the activity. Let your movers do their job without being micromanaged (that's why you hired professionals, after all!), but don't disappear either. Your movers will want to know you are nearby if they have questions. Pro mover tip: If you do need to run out for a bit during the move, let the movers know you are leaving, and give them your cell number so they can reach you if necessary. The movers will need a place to park the moving truck that is close to your home, but the last thing they or you want on moving day is for the moving truck to get ticketed or towed. If you live in an apartment or have an HOA, ask building or HOA management where the movers should park. Reserve spots if necessary. A sign, traffic cones, or parking your vehicle in the spot until the movers arrive are all options. If you live in a high-rise condo or apartment building, you should also ask building management about using the elevator. They may have a utility elevator to use rather than the one for tenants or have restrictions on the times of day you can use the elevator for moving — which you'd want to know before you schedule your move time. Pro mover tip: If it's winter, make sure the walkways and stairs are shoveled or plowed and salted if there is any ice. Your current neighbors may already know you are planning a move, but make sure they know the move date and time so they can anticipate the trucks and activity that day. It's moving etiquette to never block driveways, but if it's unavoidable let the neighbors know so they can plan for it — this is another reason to figure out parking ahead of time. This goes for your old neighbors and your new ones. Pro mover tip: When scheduling your move window, also consider your neighbors. If you're moving on a weekday you may want to avoid morning and evening commute times, and on weekends you may want to avoid early mornings when people might be sleeping. General politeness goes a long way. If your stress is running high on moving day, try not to take it out on your movers. They want things to go smoothly as much as you do. Moving is hard work, especially on a hot day. Having some bottles of cold water on hand to offer your movers is a very welcome gesture. Pro mover tip: Tipping your movers is not required, but it is always appreciated. If you do want to tip for a job well done, make sure you have some cash on hand. Ready to make your move? Contact the friendly team at AAA Movers to get a move quote or schedule your move.Be packed and ready
Prep your home
Figure out parking and building access
Be courteous to your neighbors
Be considerate of your movers