Your moving day is scheduled, and now you’re probably starting to wonder how you are going to get everything ready. You might even be wondering WHAT you need to do to get ready! This guide breaks down exactly how to prepare for movers, what to expect if packing services are included, and what will need your attention before the truck arrives. If you are still planning your timeline, see How far in advance you should book movers in Kansas City?
How Do You Prepare for Movers?
It is easy to focus on the move date itself and leave smaller decisions until the last few days. Most last-minute problems, though, come from missing important steps that could have been done earlier. Packing that takes longer than expected, access issues that were not planned for, or items that were never clearly sorted can all slow down moving day.
We’ve broken the process into a simple timeline to help you avoid those issues. Whether you are packing yourself or using professional packing services, this guide can help make your move easier to manage and moving day more predictable.
What to Do 1 to 2 Weeks Before Moving Day
Start with the items that take the most time and require the most decisions.
- Declutter and reduce what you plan to move
- Confirm your moving date and arrival window
- Begin packing non-essential items if you are packing yourself
- Label boxes clearly by room and contents
- Set aside items that will not be moved
If you have told movers you are doing all the packing, this is when that work needs to begin. Waiting until the last few days can create delays on moving day. If you have scheduled packing services, you do not need to box items, but it still helps to organize and declutter your home so the crew can work efficiently.
What to Do a Few Days Before the Move
As the move gets closer, preparation becomes more specific.
- Complete most of your packing if you are handling it
- Remove trash, donations, and items you are not moving
- Disassemble furniture if you plan to handle it yourself
- Confirm parking or access at both locations
- Arrange care for pets or children if needed
- Prepare appliances if they are being moved
If packing services are included, you do not need to disassemble or wrap most items. The crew will typically handle that. The focus instead should be making sure everything is accessible and clearly identified. Focus on getting your home into a “ready to pack” state. This helps the crew move efficiently and keeps items grouped the way you expect when you unpack.
- Clear off desks, countertops, and tabletops
- Put loose items back where they belong instead of leaving them out
- Put items like DVDs or video game cartridges into their cases, and return books to their bookshelves
- Move laundry out of baskets and into drawers or closets
- Group similar items together so they are packed in the same boxes
- Identify and label high-value or fragile items that may need special handling
The goal is not to pre-pack, but to make sure everything is where it belongs before it goes into a box.
For a full breakdown of costs that can appear late in the process, review Moving Expenses Unpacked: How to Avoid Surprise Costs.
What to Do the Day Before Movers Arrive
The day before should be about finishing and organizing, not starting new tasks.
- Finish packing everything you are responsible for
- Empty refrigerators and unplug appliances if needed
- Pack a suitcase with the essential items you’ll need for the duration of the move
- Group and separate items that will stay with you such as any plants, electronics or valuables you will transport yourself
- Double-check that pathways are clear
- Confirm timing with your moving company
If you have not arranged packing services, everything should be boxed and ready at this stage. Movers can load loose items, but it will slow down the process and may affect timing.
If packing services are scheduled, finish getting your space “pack-ready”.
What to Do the Morning of the Move
Moving day should focus on coordination and communication.
- Be available when the crew arrives
- Walk through the home and point out key items
- Identify anything that should not be loaded
- Clarify what is being packed versus what is already packed
- Keep essentials with you
- Do a final check of closets, cabinets, and storage areas
If the crew is packing, this walkthrough is especially important. It helps avoid confusion about what should be boxed, what should stay, and what may need special handling.
What Do Movers Typically Handle?
Professional movers focus on the physical work of the move and, if requested, the packing as well.
- Loading and unloading
- Protecting furniture during transport
- Navigating stairs, tight spaces, and heavy items
- Organizing the truck for efficient transport
- Packing and wrapping items if that service is scheduled
If packing is not included, movers will expect items to be ready to load. Loose or unpacked items may slow down the move.
If you are unsure what is included, see Packing for a move: what to pack yourself vs what movers handle.
What You Should Keep With You
Some items should not go on the moving truck, regardless of the type of move.
- Important documents
- Medications
- Valuables
- Daily essentials such as clothing and toiletries
- Items you will need immediately after arrival
Keeping these items with you avoids delays and keeps them accessible throughout the move.
Plan Your Move with Gerber Moving and Storage
Preparation is part of a successful move. The more organized everything is ahead of time, the smoother moving day becomes.
Gerber Moving and Storage provides free, no-obligation estimates throughout the Kansas City metro area. Our team helps you understand what to expect and how to prepare based on the services you choose.
Contact Gerber Moving and Storage to schedule your move and prepare with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions About Preparing for Movers
Do Movers Expect Everything to Be Packed?
If packing services are not included, movers generally expect items to be packed and ready. If packing is included, the crew will handle boxing and protection.
Should I Be Home During the Move?
Yes. Being available helps answer questions, confirm details, and keep the move going.
Can Movers Move Unpacked Items?
They may be able to, but it can slow down the process and affect timing. It is best to confirm expectations ahead of time.
Request an Estimate
The best way to give you a fair, accurate price is to have a Gerber representative visit your home or business. This service is free—there is no charge for us to do an on-site survey and prepare an estimate.
