To avoid unnecessary issues on moving day, it’s crucial to stay sharp and mindful from the moment you wake up—or ideally, even the night before. Being prepared ahead of time allows you to spot potential problems early on. Here’s what you need to know:

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Avoid Waking Up Unprepared Being unprepared on moving day can mean many things, and it’s the level of unpreparedness that can make all the difference. To function smoothly, make sure you don’t stay up too late the night before, so you have the mental clarity and physical energy to handle the day ahead. You should be fully alert and ready to tackle the move without major hiccups. Expect the unexpected, but a charged and accessible phone will help you deal with any surprises. By following your moving schedule, you should have already handled most of your tasks before the big day. Don’t leave “quick” jobs like packing a few last boxes or organizing scattered items for the day of the move.

Be sure to wake up early and double-check every room to ensure nothing is left behind. Check thoroughly—nothing should be overlooked!

Label Your Moving Boxes! One of the biggest moving day mistakes is failing to label your boxes. While your movers can still load unmarked boxes onto the truck without issue, the real trouble comes when you arrive at your new home. Unlabeled boxes will be piled together in a chaotic heap, making it nearly impossible for you to find what you need.

Avoid the frustration by labeling each box carefully. Grab a black permanent marker or—better yet—use color-coded labels to make identification even easier. Assign a color for each room in your new home, and mark each box with its contents and the designated room. For example: KITCHEN UTENSILS or LIVING ROOM BOOKS. Once you arrive, place a matching color card on the doors of each room so your movers know exactly where each box should go.

Prioritize Safety on Moving Day The unexpected is bound to happen on moving day, which is why safety must be a top priority. If there’s one mistake you can’t afford, it’s neglecting your safety and the safety of your family—especially your pets.

While lost money and damaged belongings can be replaced, injuries from inadequate safety measures can last a lifetime. If you have young children, make sure they’re kept away from the moving chaos. Ask a trusted friend or relative to look after them while you focus on the tasks at hand. Keeping their routine as intact as possible will make the transition easier for them, and an extra set of hands will help you out tremendously.

The same applies to pets. You don’t want them darting around while you’re trying to get things packed up. Consider having them stay with a friend or professional pet-sitter until the move is over and you can settle in safely.

Inside your home and outside on the pathways, keep the areas clear of any obstacles that could pose a safety hazard. Clean off mud, dirt, water, and especially ice, which can make the entire operation risky.

Finally, dress for the task ahead. Opt for comfortable clothes that allow you to move freely, and wear sturdy, non-slip shoes with good grip. Don’t forget heavy-duty gloves to protect your hands from any potential injuries while handling heavy objects.

By staying prepared, organized, and safety-conscious, your moving day will go much more smoothly and stress-free.