10 Moving Day Tips to Stay Organized and Stress-Free

Moving day doesn’t have to be chaotic. Whether you’re heading across Atlanta or relocating out of state, the secret to a successful move is preparation, planning, and a few expert moving day tips and tricks. At Pack It Up Moving & Storage, we’ve helped thousands of families tackle their move with less stress and more success. So today, we’re sharing our top tips for moving day to help your experience be as smooth as possible — no matter how far you’re going.
Create a Moving Day Game Plan
First things first: write it down. A simple checklist can make a big difference. Here’s what to include:
- What time movers arrive
- Who is handling pets or kids
- Any special instructions for fragile items
- Final walkthrough of the old place
- What to unpack first at the new place
Having a clear plan sets the tone and helps reduce confusion when things get busy.
Pack a Moving Day Survival Kit
One of our best tips to reduce moving day stress is to pack a personal essentials bag or “first-night” box. This should include:
- Water bottles and snacks
- Phone charger
- Toilet paper and soap
- Medications
- Change of clothes
- Important documents
- Trash bags
- Tools (screwdriver, box cutter)
This saves you from digging through boxes for the basics when you’re tired and just want to relax.
Label Boxes Like a Pro
We can’t stress this enough. Label your boxes clearly on multiple sides. Include the room (e.g., “Kitchen”) and a few key items (“Pots and Pans”). Color-coding your boxes by room is another helpful trick to keep everything organized.
When your movers know exactly where to put things, unpacking becomes much easier.
Clean Before Movers Arrive
Tidy up your space before movers show up. It creates a safer environment and ensures nothing gets left behind. Wipe down counters, empty trash cans, and clear walkways. A clutter-free area helps movers work more efficiently and avoids delays.
Keep Pets and Kids Comfortable
Moving day can be overwhelming for little ones both human and furry. Try to arrange for a babysitter or pet sitter, or set up a quiet, safe space away from the chaos with food, water, toys, and comfort items.
Take Photos Before Disconnecting Electronics
Before you unplug your home office or TV setup, snap a quick photo of the wiring. This tip will save you time and stress when reconnecting everything at your new home.
Also, don’t forget to bag and label cords and remotes.
Prioritize the Bedroom and Bathroom First
Once you arrive at your new place, the first things to set up should be your bed and bathroom. Trust us, by the end of the day you’ll be grateful to have a working shower and a place to sleep without digging through boxes.
Start Early (Seriously)
This might be the most underrated of all tips for a smooth moving day: start as early as possible. Moves almost always take longer than expected. Beginning early gives you buffer time in case of delays and keeps everything moving on schedule.
Confirm the Details with Your Moving Company
Call or text your movers the night before to confirm:
- Arrival time
- Pickup and delivery addresses
- Parking instructions
- Special items or instructions
If you’re moving with Pack It Up Moving, you’ll always receive a confirmation — but this step adds peace of mind.
Be Flexible and Take Breaks
Things don’t always go perfectly, and that’s okay. Build in some wiggle room, take breaks to breathe, and stay hydrated. A calm mind helps you make better decisions if unexpected issues come up (and they usually do).
Serving Atlanta & Nearby Communities
We proudly serve all of Metro Atlanta, including:
- Stone Mountain
- Sandy Springs
- Decatur
- Roswell
- Alpharetta
- Lawrenceville
- Marietta
- Norcross
Whether you’re moving around the corner or across Georgia, we bring local experience and dependable service to every move.
Ready to Make Your Move Smooth?
Don’t let moving day stress you out. Use these proven moving day tips and let the pros handle the rest.
Call us now at (678) 334-2601
Get a FREE quote in minutes
FAQs
How can I reduce stress on moving day?
Plan ahead, stay organized, and hire professional movers. Pack a day-of survival kit and set up your bed and bathroom first to make the day easier.
What should I do the night before moving?
Confirm mover details, charge your phone, finish packing, and get a good night’s rest. Lay out clothes and important items for easy access.
How early should I start on moving day?
As early as possible! Start around 7 or 8 AM to give yourself time and flexibility throughout the day.
Should I help the movers on moving day?
You don’t need to lift, but it’s helpful to be available for questions and to guide the movers with box placements.
What’s the best moving day tip for families with kids?
Arrange childcare or create a quiet, safe space away from the moving activity. Keep their favorite toys or snacks nearby for comfort.