What To Do Before The Movers Come

So, what exactly should you do before the movers arrive? How do you make sure the big day goes smoothly?
From packing and labelling boxes to sorting out parking for the removal van, there’s plenty to prepare. But what about the smaller details — like your pets, your valuables, and even your neighbours?

Here’s your ultimate step-by-step guide to what to do before the movers come — created by the moving experts at BookAMover.

Pack and Label All Boxes Before Movers Arrive

If you’re handling your own packing, make sure everything is packed, sealed, and clearly labelled before moving day.
Well-packed boxes not only protect your belongings but also help movers load and unload more efficiently.

✅ Label Each Box Clearly: Write the room name and key contents.
🎨 Use Colour Coding: Assign a colour per room for quicker sorting.
🧾 Create an Inventory: Keep a list of all boxes to check nothing goes missing.

Pro tip: Mark boxes containing fragile items in bold or with stickers so the house movers you hire can handle them carefully.

🚚 Ready to move? Get free quotes from trusted local movers today!

Should You Wrap Your Furniture Before the Movers Come?

Yes — wrapping your furniture protects it from scratches, dirt, and accidental damage.
Most professional movers (including BookAMover’s trusted partners) bring wrapping materials and blankets, but pre-wrapping delicate items adds extra protection.

🪑 Use bubble wrap or plastic stretch film on polished surfaces.
🛏️ Remove cushions and wrap separately.

If in doubt, ask your movers — some offer professional packing and wrapping services for extra peace of mind.

Secure Nearby Parking for the Removal Van

A common mistake before moving day is forgetting about van parking.
Check with your movers about the vehicle size, and then contact your local council (at least 3–4 weeks in advance) to suspend parking bays if needed.

🅿️ Reserve space as close as possible to your home entrance.
📞 Notify your neighbours in advance to avoid blocked driveways or complaints.

Proper parking access can save up to an hour of loading time — and reduce overall moving costs.

Create a Moving Inventory

A detailed inventory helps your move run smoothly from start to finish.

Why it matters:

• 📦 Track belongings: Know what’s packed and where.

• 💷 Get accurate quotes: Movers can estimate the van size and team needed.

• 🛠️ Assist insurance claims: Helps prove ownership or condition if something’s lost or damaged.

Keep both digital and printed copies, and share them with your movers before moving day.

Take Photos of Furniture and Property

Before the movers arrive, take photos of all major furniture and rooms.
It’s quick, simple, and helps protect you in case of damage claims.

Benefits:

• 🧾 Provides proof of condition before the move.

• 🗃️ Acts as a visual inventory.

• 😌 Offers peace of mind knowing everything’s documented.

📦 Trusted movers near you. Make your move simple and affordable.

Disconnect Your Fridge and Electronics in Advance

Make sure to unplug, defrost, and clean your fridge at least 24 hours before moving day.
Also, disconnect all electronics such as TVs, washing machines, and PCs.

Transporting a fridge with ice inside can cause internal damage — so ensure it’s fully dry before loading.

Hire a Pet Sitter (If You Have Pets)

Moving day can be stressful for animals.
Consider hiring a pet sitter to keep your dogs or cats safe and calm while movers work.

Why it helps:

• Keeps pets away from open doors and heavy lifting zones.

• Reduces anxiety caused by strangers and noise.

• Lets you focus fully on the move.

Book early to secure someone reliable — especially if moving in summer when pet sitters get busy.

Additional information: Learn the best practices for moving house with a cat.

Empty the Fish Tank Before the Movers Arrive

Moving a fish tank safely takes care.
Transfer fish into small bags or containers filled with tank water, empty the tank completely, and pack all decorations and equipment separately.

Never move a full tank — it can crack under pressure and spill during transit.

Hire a Babysitter for Young Children

If you have kids, arranging a babysitter makes a huge difference.

Reasons to consider:

• 🛡️ Keeps children safe while movers lift heavy furniture.

• 🎯 Allows you to focus on coordination.

• 😊 Keeps little ones calm and entertained during chaos.

Provide a quiet area or let them spend the day with relatives for extra comfort.

Secure Your Valuables

Always move small valuable items — jewellery, passports, cash, or electronics — yourself.

Why it’s important:

• 💎 Avoids loss or accidental mix-ups.

• 🚗 Gives peace of mind knowing they’re with you at all times.

Pack them in a clearly labelled but discreet bag and keep it close.

Inform Your Neighbours

Letting your neighbours know about your moving day can save a lot of stress.
Share your moving date and times so they can plan parking or avoid driveway issues.
It’s a polite gesture that helps maintain good neighbourly relations — especially if you’re moving locally.

Clean Your Furniture Before the Move

A quick clean goes a long way.
Dust and vacuum your furniture before the movers arrive to prevent dirt from transferring into your new home.

🪑 Wipe wooden furniture with a mild cleaner.
🛋️ Vacuum sofas and cushions.

This also gives you a chance to check for any existing scratches or marks.

Provide Refreshments for the Family and Movers

Moving day is hard work — for everyone!
Set up a refreshment station with bottled water, fruit, tea, or snacks.

Why it helps:

• 🍎 Keeps energy levels up.

• 💬 Builds goodwill with your movers.

• 🌞 Prevents fatigue on long or hot days.

A small gesture can make the day more positive for everyone.

Have Cash Ready for Tips

While tipping isn’t mandatory, it’s a thoughtful way to show appreciation for great service.

Typical range: £10–£20 per mover for a local move.
Keep cash handy so you don’t have to rush to an ATM at the end of a long day.

Do Removal Men Expect You to Help?

Usually not. Movers are trained and equipped to handle all heavy lifting and logistics.
Your main job is to be available for questions, direct them where needed, and ensure fragile boxes are identified.

Let them do the lifting — you focus on the coordination.

✅ Ready to Move? Compare Local Movers Near You

At BookAMover, we help you find and compare trusted, vetted removal companies in your area.
Save time, avoid stress, and move with confidence.

👉 Get up to 4 free moving quotes today.