What You Need for Moving Day

Linn Area Credit Union - Moving In

Remember these things when you’re moving in.

So, you snagged a new house, condo or apartment — maybe even in another area of the state or country. Congrats! Now what?

Well, you’re going to have to (gasp!) move! Let’s face it, moving can be a big, messy ordeal. The biggest and best thing you can do is to try to be patient with the process, the people around you, and yourself. (Breathe in. Breathe out. You’ve got this.)


Stuff you need on moving day

Moving = stress. To reduce your stress, we gathered a few ideas outlining what you need in order to keep your sanity when you move into a new place.

Cleaning supplies
If you can get into your new home before move-in day, that’s a great time to clean. But even if you have time to clean before you arrive, it’s a good idea to bring cleaning supplies with you on the day you move. Gather a bucket of basic supplies, such as cleaning products, rags, paper towels, sponges and brushes to have at your side. A broom is a good idea, too. You never know when you’ll need to clean up a spill or sweep up tracked-in maple spinners. Be sure to have a few garbage bags in your cleaning kit, and maybe even a small garbage can, too!

Moving dolly and straps
If you’re doing a lot of the moving yourself, keep in mind that you can move more boxes faster with a wheeled moving dolly or hand truck. Straps help you further secure boxes and furnishings safely to the equipment. Be sure to pump up the tires on the hand truck if needed.

Shoes or boots
Nothing will put a damper on your moving like a toe getting squished by a couch! Wear sturdy shoes or boots while moving items — this added protection could save you a trip to the ER.

Window coverings
If you planned your space in advance, you might have your new window treatments ready to go. It’s one of the first things you’ll want to do to ensure privacy as you arrive! And this leads us to the next tip…

Toolkit
Hammer, screwdriver, packing tape, box cutter — have all of these items at your side, not only for installing window treatments, but just in case. Maybe there are other items you’ll need, too. Put them in an accessible place so they’re handy while you’re moving.

Refreshments
Having your morning coffee and staying hydrated on moving days will help you maintain your energy. Fill up a cooler with water and other beverages for you and your moving crew.

Friends and family
If you don’t hire movers, it can be super-duper helpful to gather a bunch of friends and family to help you move. Many people will help you in exchange for a free meal, so plan to fuel the day with pizza or another stress-free delivery option. You might also want to consider what jobs need to be done around the home as you move in. Part of your crew could be cleaning while others move boxes and furniture.

Disposable dinnerware
You’re going to need to eat sometime, and it may likely be takeout for a day or two. Be prepared and bring a few paper plates, cups and forks with you. There’s no sense in digging around and washing plates, forks, and knives when you could have the disposable option available on this busy day.

First aid kit
Okay, let’s hope you don’t need this, but just in case, make sure the first aid kit is within reach. You could also plan to unpack your bathroom cabinet box as soon as you arrive. Either way, you’ll feel better knowing that any scrapes and cuts can be dealt with quickly.

Keys and papers
Keys to the moving truck, your vehicle and your new home should be by your side at all times. Keep paperwork for rentals in a secure, handy location, too.

Money for the movers
If the moving crew does a good job, you’ll want to thank them for their efforts, so have cash on hand to tip them. How much to tip? Tip amounts vary from $4-$5 per hour for each mover to $20-$40 for the half day or day. Experienced, respectful movers deserve a tip for quality service.

A packed bag and bathroom supplies
Pack an overnight bag with toilet paper and your clothes, soap, and towels for the next day.


Keep this info close

Be sure to load up your phone with the phone numbers you may need to call, such as movers, landlords (old and new, if applicable), babysitters, food delivery, etc. (You never know what you might need… but when you need it, you need it!)

Also, if you’re moving to a new area, state or city, it’ll be helpful to know where your new home is in relation to important services, such as the ATM, hardware store, coffee shop, grocery store, and (we hate to say it) hospital or urgent care facility. (Hopefully you won’t have anything more serious than a coffee crisis!)


Patience, patience, patience

We can’t say it too many times. If you can keep your calm and expect good things to happen, you’ll reduce your stress and that of everyone around you. Best of luck in your new place!