Learn the best tips on packing for moving companies to ensure a smooth, damage-free move. From materials to prep work, here’s how to make your move safer.
Every step you take to prepare for Atlanta local moving companies before they arrive will save you time, frustration, and stress on moving day.
The first time we hired professional movers, it was a week before the Easter holidays. I had a two-month-old baby, a restless two-year-old, and a husband who was out of town the day the movers showed up.
I had no clue what I was supposed to do to get ready. I thought I had a plan, but within hours, it fell apart.
By the time we got to our new place, our furniture was stuck in storage. We spent Easter on an air mattress with a borrowed lawn chair, and paper plates for our meal. It was overwhelming, frustrating, and nothing like what I expected.
Since then, we’ve moved several more times, with toddlers, school schedules, job changes, and more in the mix.
Along the way, I’ve learned what actually makes a difference when it comes to packing for moving companies.
These practical tips will help you feel ready, stay calm, and make your moving day as smooth as possible.
8 Things To Do Before The Movers Arrive.
After our chaotic move with two tiny kids and barely a plan, I promised myself I’d never walk into another moving day unprepared.
Over time, and through several more moves, I learned that what happens before the movers arrive matters just as much as what happens on moving day.
Here are the eight most important things you can do to make sure your move starts off on the right foot:
1. Plan to be Present all Day
Cancel all your plans for the day. And don’t try to leave it for another person to deal with if you can afford to.
But if you won’t be around, make sure the person you leave in charge is responsible and trustworthy.
2. Declutter Before You Pack a Single Box
I know it is tempting to want to throw everything into boxes and sort out later. But please, avoid that temptation, because it comes with more stress and money spent.
Go through each room and be brutally honest about what you want to bring into your next season of life.
Give out, or throw away old stuff you don’t use anymore.
This one step will lighten your load—literally—and cut down on what you’ll need to unpack on the other side.
3. Pack an Essentials Box (or Two)
The movers don’t know what you need, once you have packed your boxes. So, I highly recommend packing an essential box.
Before they arrive, pack a clearly labeled box or suitcase with your everyday must-haves:
- Toiletries
- Pajamas and a change of clothes
- Basic kitchenware (a pan, plates, utensils)
- Medications
- Chargers
- Cleaning supplies
- Important documents
If you have kids, prep a “survival bag” for them, too: diapers, wipes, their favorite toy or blanket, snacks, and a change of clothes.
You’ll thank yourself on that first night.
4. Label Everything Clearly (and Smartly)
Trust me, the fastest way to lose your sanity is unlabeled boxes.
Write the room name and a quick description on the side of each box (not the top, everything gets stacked).
Example:
Living Room – Books
Kitchen – Fragile: Glass Mugs
Primary Bedroom – Winter Clothes
Some people even use color-coded tape for each room. It is extra effort but a game-changer on moving day.
5. Take Photos of Valuables and Electronics
Before anything gets packed, take quick photos of:
- Furniture (especially if it’s already scuffed or scratched)
- High-value items like TVs, computers, or artwork
- How your electronics are wired (it helps when reconnecting them later)
This gives you peace of mind, documentation for insurance, and a reference if anything gets damaged or misplaced.
6. Disconnect and Disassemble What You Can
Movers are there to carry, not necessarily to prep.
Take down wall-mounted TVs, remove shelves, unplug appliances, and disassemble bed frames or large furniture.
If you’re moving a fridge or freezer, unplug it 24 hours ahead and let it defrost to avoid leaks.
It’s small prep work that saves time and protects your things.
7. Secure Kids and Pets Ahead of Time
This is often overlooked, but it’s a big one.
Moving day is chaotic. People are constantly going and coming out, carrying big boxes. So, you must have a plan.
- Drop your pets off with a friend or kennel for the day
- Ask a relative to watch the kids
- Or, set up a quiet, closed room with snacks, toys, and an iPad to keep them safe and out of the way
It protects them, and keeps things running smoother.
8. Make Sure You Empty Your Drawers and Remove Loose Items
No matter how strong your cabinet looks, please do not move them while they are full.
Empty it.
Take out anything that can shift, break, or add unnecessary weight, especially valuables or delicate items.
Leave the furniture light, secure, and easy to move.
9. Prep the New Place Before the Truck Arrives
This step is very important. If you have access to your new place, go there and get everything ready.
Here is what I recommend you do:
- Measure tight spaces and doorways to make sure large furniture fits
- Lay down floor protection if you’re worried about scratches or dirt
- Give the bathroom and kitchen a quick clean (it makes settling in easier)
- Use sticky notes to label where furniture should go (it saves a lot of back-and-forth with the movers)
The goal is to make the unloading process fast, clear, and easy for everyone.
Final Thoughts
Packing for moving companies does not have to be stressful. Especially if you start early and follow a checklist that covers the basics.
The more you prepare, the less you’ll scramble when the movers ring your doorbell.
And while moving day might still come with a few bumps, you’ll feel far more in control, even if you’re balancing a baby on your hip or chasing a toddler with a marker.
You’ve got this.
