Moving Day: What to Do When the Van Arrives

The prep is done, the boxes are packed. Here’s how to make sure moving day itself goes as smoothly as possible.

By the time moving day arrives, most of the hard work should already be behind you. But there are still a few things worth getting right on the day itself – small things that make a real difference to how smoothly everything goes.

Clear a path before we arrive

Walk through the property and make sure there’s a clear route from each room to the front door, and from the front door to where the van will be parked. Remove trip hazards, prop open doors that need to stay open, and move anything that might get in the way. A door wedge is one of the most underrated items on moving day – have one ready.

Group similar shapes together

Before we start loading, try to get items arranged so similar shapes are near each other – boxes together, flat items like headboards and ironing boards together, awkward-shaped things identified and flagged. It helps us load the van more efficiently and means more fits in fewer trips.

Two Yorkshire movers vans being loaded

Tell us about the fragile and difficult items upfront

Before we start loading, run through anything that needs special attention – the large mirror, the antique piece, the wardrobe that only fits through the door at a specific angle. Delicate items don’t go in last, despite what people often assume. They go where they can be properly protected and secured, away from heavy or awkward items like bikes and lawnmowers.

Make sure someone's at the other end

This one catches people out. Make sure there’s someone at the delivery address who can let us in when we arrive. If we turn up and nobody’s there to open up, we have to wait – and that can add cost to the job. Sort this in advance, particularly if the destination is a flat or a building that needs a key fob or buzzer.

Don't forget your keys

The collection address and the delivery address. It sounds obvious, but keys get packed into boxes, left on kitchen counters, or handed to a neighbour and forgotten about. Keep them on your person throughout the day.

The Yorkshire van man team putting boxes into their van

Look after the team

This one’s optional, but appreciated. Moving is physically hard work. If you’re able to offer drinks throughout the day – hot or cold – it goes a long way. We won’t say no to a Tunnock’s Caramel Wafer either, if you’re feeling generous.

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