Moving Day is so much fun…said nobody ever! There’s no getting around it. Moving and moving preparations are stressful. You need to plan, organize, and organize more.

No worries. You’re ready for this. You’ve read the Prepping for the Big Move article, arranged for a reputable moving company, diligently packed your belongings, placed items that you don’t need right away in convenient self-storage, made arrangements for kids and pets (if you have them), packed a basic “unpacking kit” and carefully completed your moving planner checklist.

Here are a few more tips to help you navigate the chaos:

Be dressed and ready to go when the movers arrive.

This seems obvious, but I know people who’ve welcomed the movers in their sleeping attire, and it’s not pretty. It’s very complicated to shower and dress while strange people are moving through your house like it’s the local Super Target. Even if you’re doing a DIY move, you still need to get an early start unless working all night is your thing.

Dress appropriately.

You already know that you’re not dressing for dinner at your favorite high-end restaurant, but don’t underestimate this suggestion. Make sure your clothing is comfortable, but not too loose fitting. Any clothing that has long ties or is over sized can get in your way or become caught on something and cause injury. A trip to the ER is a huge time waster.

Schedule kid and pet arrangements early in the morning.

If you have friends or family members watching kids and pets for the day, schedule pick-ups early in the morning. Get them out of the house while you’re still sane. Having little ones around can complicate a move, and it can be dangerous for them. Pets can also be a problem. Caring for them will give you an excuse to let everyone else do the dirty work, but that’s not really fair…or, is it??

Keep a running list of all the little things that must get done.

Last minute jobs have a way of piling up. Do you even remember the last time you cleaned out the refrigerator or dusted the ceiling fans? Don’t wait until the truck is on its way to frantically begin these tasks. A list will help you prioritize and make time to get these things done before you leave. If you’re into tech, there’s a great moving checklist app for your phone. 

Don’t forget your moving essentials/unpacking kit.

As the heading states these are “essential” to getting you through moving day and the following few days. Here is a list to get you started (not necessarily in order of importance).

• Trash Bags
• Box Cutter
• Spray Cleaner and Cleaning Cloths
• Cell-Phone Charger
• Hand Soap
• Toilet Paper
• Paper Towels
• Disposable Plates, Cups, Bowls, and Utensils
• Towels for Each Family Member
• Shower Curtain Liner
• Toiletries
• Pain Reliever
• Grab and Go Snacks (Protein Bars, Nuts, Pre-Made Sandwiches)
• Bottled Water

It’s also a good idea to designate someone to go for take-out at meal time. And, don’t forget the movers. They get hungry, too. Allow for extra snacks and drinks for them, and always include them in any take-out orders.

Have cash on hand to tip the movers.

Tipping isn’t required, but it is the gracious thing to do. Be sure to have cash on hand because, in this situation, you can’t tip by check or credit card. You will hear varying advice on this, because tips are generally based on the size and distance of the move. It’s best to do some research on tipping movers and base your decision on the level of service you receive from your moving guys. If they leave your king size mattress on the front porch, and you have to assemble your bed by yourself, forget the tip.

Do one final walk through.

You don’t want to leave one of your treasures behind. Open all of your cabinets and closets to make sure that you have everything. You’ll be sorry if you’ve left behind your animated dancing Christmas elves. You may have trouble getting them back from the new residents. 

These details may seem minor but overlooking them can cause a major disaster. Moving day is stressful enough. Don’t let forgetting that box cutter be the cause of a major meltdown. Above all else, remember this vital tip:  Don’t pack your dog and cat in the same box!  Good luck…it will be over soon.