The day before your move is not downtime. It's one of the most consequential windows in the whole process. Get through this checklist and moving day runs smoothly. Skip it and you'll be scrambling at the worst possible time.
Confirm All Moving Details with Your Company
Call your movers and verify arrival time, address, and contact numbers. Make sure they have your updated cell and any special handling instructions for items like pianos, antiques, or oversized furniture. Clear communication the day before prevents surprises at the door.
Also pull up your moving contract and go through it one more time. Confirm what's included in your package, whether packing or unpacking is covered, and who handles furniture disassembly. This final review catches misunderstandings before they become disputes.
Pack Your Essentials Box and Last-Day Necessities
Even if everything else is packed, you still need access to personal items through moving day and into the first night at your new place.
Your essentials box should include toiletries, medications, chargers, snacks, a change of clothes, important documents, and basic kitchen tools. Keep it close so you're not tearing through packed boxes looking for your toothbrush at 11pm.
Prepare a separate "Open First" box with basic tools, toilet paper, garbage bags, and cleaning supplies. You'll likely need to wipe down the old place before handing over keys, and you may want to do a quick clean at the new one before unpacking begins. Label these boxes clearly so movers know to offload them first.
Defrost the Refrigerator and Prep Major Appliances
Moving a fridge that hasn't been properly prepared can cause water leakage, mold buildup, and internal damage. Unplug your refrigerator and freezer at least 24 hours in advance. Remove all food, clean the interior, and leave the doors open so moisture can evaporate. Put towels around the base to catch dripping water.
Do the same for the washer, dryer, and stove. Disconnect hoses, remove detachable parts, and secure all cords. If you're unsure about any appliance prep, your moving company can walk you through it or handle it as part of your service plan.
Do a Final Walkthrough
Open every cabinet, drawer, and closet in the entire house. Commonly missed spots: medicine cabinets, under-sink storage, attic storage, and garage shelves. Take photos of each room once it's empty — this documentation protects your security deposit if you're leaving a rental, and it's useful if any damage claims come up later.
Do this walkthrough early in the evening. You want time to address anything you find.
Prepare for the Movers' Arrival
Reserve parking for the moving truck if you're in an apartment or a busy neighborhood. Contact building management or your city's parking services to arrange a permit or reserved spot. A delay in truck access creates schedule setbacks and can add to an hourly bill.
Arrange for pets and small children to be in a safe area or elsewhere during the move. Movers need room to work, and unexpected activity in tight spaces creates safety issues.
Set Aside Payment, Paperwork, and Keys
Have your payment method ready, whether card, check, or online transfer, and confirm the tipping policy. If cash tips are preferred, prepare labeled envelopes with small bills.
Keep all moving documents, ID, and new home keys in one folder that stays with you throughout the move. Include your utility shutoff schedule and lease or closing paperwork — you'll want these accessible on moving day, not buried in a box.
Estimated Moving Day Costs to Consider
| Item | Estimated Cost Range (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Moving Company Service Fee | $400–$1,500 | Depends on size of home, services, and distance |
| Packing Supplies (leftover needs) | $20–$50 | Tape, markers, last-minute boxes |
| Tips for Movers (optional) | $10–$40 per mover | Based on satisfaction and complexity of the move |
| Cleaning Services (if hired) | $100–$300 | Optional for deep clean before handing over the property |
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do the night before a move? Disassemble all furniture you are taking, put hardware in labeled bags taped to each piece, fully charge all devices, confirm the mover's arrival time, set out your essentials bag, and do a final check of every room for unpacked items.
What time should movers arrive on moving day? Morning starts of 8-9 AM are ideal for local moves. You avoid afternoon traffic and summer heat, and have the full day if anything takes longer than expected.
What should I pack in my car vs. on the moving truck? In your car: essentials bag including toiletries, medications, chargers, important documents, and 2-3 days of clothes. Also valuables and pets. Everything else goes on the truck.
How do I make sure nothing gets left behind? Do a systematic room-by-room walkthrough, opening every closet, cabinet, and drawer. Check the garage, attic, basement, and outdoor spaces. Take photos of each empty room. Do it twice — once before movers arrive and once before the last truck leaves.
What should I do if movers are late? Contact the company immediately using the number in your contract. If movers are significantly late with no communication, escalate to management. Document the time and all communications in case it affects your move-in timing.
Should I disassemble furniture myself or let movers do it? Doing it yourself the night before saves significant mover time on hourly jobs and is generally the smarter call. Movers will disassemble if asked, but it adds to your hourly bill.
