It's moving day! Generally, this is the one day that when it arrives, people want to be over as fast as possible. A crew of movers (and strangers) are about to invade your home and move all of your belongings. There are a number of steps to ensure that the process is smooth and less stressful for you and your family.
When the moving crew arrives there will be a driver/van operator who is the supervisor of the crew. This supervisor should be your go to person for any questions or concerns throughout the moving process. A professional mover will recognize the move is stressful for each family, and take actions throughout the move to assure your satisfaction. However, establishing a good relationship with the supervisor from the start will make communication easier and make you more comfortable if questions or issues arise.
Generally a written inventory of your goods is the first action that is taken by the moving crew. They will prepare the inventory by numbering each piece, and assessing the current condition. You should be sure that you are in complete agreement with the assessment made of your furniture, and that nothing is listed that is not correct. The purpose of the inventory is to ensure that all numbered items are received at destination, but also to list the condition so that a damage claim cannot be filed on items with previous damage. Make sure you are in agreement before signing the inventories as your signature indicates your acceptance and agreement with the inventory.
It is important that you have all of your personal items going with you separated so that they are not loaded accidently. It should also be clear to the crew which items that will remain in the home such as appliances and window treatments.
Professional moving companies have a very systematic technique of loading your furniture and other items. Each piece will be pad wrapped and taken from the residence to the truck. The movers will load the truck from floor to roof in a manner similar to placing pieces in a puzzle. In order to prevent shifting of the load, and to prevent damages to your goods they will fill every hole so that your shipment is loaded tight. Therefore, they may bring pieces from different rooms to have the right size to fit. Don't be alarmed that your goods may appear to be mixed up while on the truck; you will have the opportunity of telling the movers exactly where you want each piece placed once it arrives at your new residence.
As with every service business, your movers will want to you to be happy with their work. Many moving companies depend on repeat business and customer referrals to grow their own businesses. Good moving companies do sincerely want your moving experience with them to be a good one. It can make a big difference to set the right tone with your movers right from the start. It is always nice when a customer has water or cold drinks available for the crew and many people prepare sandwiches or have some type of lunch made available for the crew. Moving is hard work, and these kinds of efforts make the atmosphere a little warmer, and lets them know you appreciate all their efforts.
The best suggestion during your moving day will be to try and relax and let the professionals do their job. All the planning time, and efforts leading to move day are the hardest part. When the day finally arrives, you will be surprised how quickly it's over, and how fast you are settled in your new home.
