How to Prepare for Movers

Professional moving prep advice

The old saying, “time is money,” is definitely true when you’re paying moving labor by the hour. To get the most for your investment, you must be prepared for the crew.

Let’s review the best practices to keep the loading process running smoothly for you and the hired workers.

Getting ready for a moving crew

Be the best customer with these tips:

Organize and prepare belongings for efficient loading

Much of the work to get ready for a moving crew happens while packing. Clearly label all boxes and make sure they’re easily accessible for loading. If you plan to load some things yourself to save money, use colored tape to indicate which boxes or items the crew should load. 

Make sure you understand best loading practices beforehand since the workers will follow your direction.

Keep in mind that oversized belongings may need extra preparation:  

Disassemble furniture

Some companies may handle light tasks, such as removing mirrors from dressers, but they typically won’t be prepared to disassemble furniture completely. If possible, take apart large pieces ahead of time so the workers won’t have to wait.  

Note: Using a clear zipper-top bag to keep nuts and bolts together saves time when you’re ready to reassemble everything.

Measure large items

Use a tape measure ahead of time to make sure bulky furniture and appliances will fit through doorways. For extra clearance, remove internal doors early for a few more inches of space. Be prepared to remove an exterior door if needed on loading day.

Prep appliances

Follow manufacturers’ recommendations for transporting large appliances, like refrigerators or washers and dryers, to keep them in good condition.

Schedule equipment delivery early

U-Pack recommends scheduling equipment delivery the day before moving labor is planned so the crew can start work immediately. You don’t want to pay workers to wait for the equipment to arrive.

Early delivery also allows time for loading anything you wish to handle.

Gather supplies for loading

Having these items available will help save time and keep your things safe since most workers won’t bring materials:

• Basic tool kit (screwdrivers, drill, hammer, tape measure, pliers, wrenches)
• Moving blankets
• Packing tape (for securing blankets and paper padding)
• Paper padding
• Plastic stretch wrap
• Ropes or straps (to secure items as they’re loaded) 
• Scissors or a utility knife

Clear a walking path

While you’re prepping your floors for the move, remove any tripping hazards along the loading path, like rugs, cords or water hoses, to keep the crew safe. Also, keep children and pets out of the way for everyone’s safety.

Show respect for the crew

Kindness goes a long way, and crew members will appreciate clear directions delivered with respect. Having snacks and water on hand is also a big plus, along with tipping the movers if you feel it is appropriate.

Note: Check with the company first to confirm tips are allowed.

Are you ready to go?

If you’re a U-Pack customer, it’s easy to add labor when making a reservation. Call 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak with a moving consultant or request a quote online.

If you’ve already booked equipment and need labor, you can visit HireAHelper online or call 888-409-6617 for a quote. Learn more about hiring movers to load a truck.

Let us know in the comments if you have questions about getting ready for moving crews. We’re available to help!