Overview

Five Things to Do Before the Moving Truck Arrives

Much of your moving preparation happens weeks, or even months, before moving day. From securing housing to coordinating travel and utilities, there’s a long list of responsibilities that require advance planning. But even the most organized movers sometimes overlook important last-minute tasks that can make or break moving day.

To help you stay on track, we’ve compiled five essential things to do before the moving truck arrives. These often-overlooked steps can save you time, reduce stress, and help your movers do their job more efficiently. Make sure they’re on your checklist, you did make a moving checklist, right?

1. Doublecheck Your Moving Contract

Before your moving truck pulls into the driveway, review your moving contract carefully. This document (also called a bill of lading) outlines the agreement between you and your moving company, including pick-up and delivery dates, estimated costs, valuation coverage, and what the movers will and won’t handle.

Don’t wait until moving day to discover an unexpected charge or restriction. Take the time to:

• • Confirm your move date and time.
  • Understand the mover’s responsibilities and yours.
  • Note any items not covered for transport.
  • Ask your mover any lingering questions you may have.

If anything seems unclear, reach out to your moving coordinator for clarification. A quick call now can prevent confusion or delays later.

2. Clear Space for the Moving Truck

One of the most common, and most avoidable, moving day hiccups is a lack of access for the truck. Whether you live in a suburban cul-de-sac, a tight city street, or a high-rise apartment building, it's your responsibility to make sure there’s adequate space for the moving truck and crew.

To prepare:

• • Move any vehicles from your driveway or curbside parking spots.
  • Speak to neighbors if you anticipate temporarily blocking their access.
  • If you’re in a building, reserve the elevator (if necessary) and check if your property manager requires notice or a certificate of insurance.
  • Clear paths inside your home, especially doorways, stairs, and walkways.

Creating a safe and efficient loading environment helps your movers work quickly and minimizes the risk of damage or delays.

3. Get Rid of Non-Allowable Items

There are some things your movers simply can’t (or won’t) take on the truck, for safety or legal reasons. These typically include:

• • Hazardous materials like paint, gasoline, propane tanks, and cleaning solvents.
  • Perishable food items.
  • Live plants and animals (yes, even fish tanks).
  • Certain valuables, documents, or irreplaceable items may also be excluded from coverage.

You should have received a list of non-allowable items during your estimate or booking process. If you’re unsure, check your moving contract or call the office to confirm.

This is also a great time to reduce clutter. Donate unopened food to a local pantry, recycle old electronics, and responsibly dispose of hazardous household waste. You’ll be glad you lightened the load before the moving truck arrives.

4. Prepare Your “Go Box”

On moving day, you’ll need quick access to certain essentials, think of your “go box” as your moving day survival kit. This is especially important if you're traveling overnight or won’t have immediate access to your delivery.

Pack a small bin or bag with:

• • Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, soap)
  • A change of clothes
  • Important documents (IDs, passports, lease, medical records)
  • Medications
  • Chargers and electronics
  • Snacks and water
  • Basic tools (screwdriver, tape, scissors)

Keep your go box with you, not on the truck, so you have everything you need, even if the move takes longer than expected.

5. Do a Final Run Through

You’ve packed everything, the movers are on their way, and you’re ready to go. But before the moving truck arrives, walk through your home one last time. You’d be surprised how many people leave behind essentials hiding in closets, cabinets, or drawers.

Check:

• • Kitchen cabinets (especially high or low shelves)
  • Bathroom drawers
  • Behind doors and inside closets
  • Attics, basements, garages, and crawl spaces
  • Outdoor areas like sheds or patios

If you're moving out of a rental, use this time to document the condition of the property for your records. Take photos and note anything that might be inspected later by your landlord or property manager.

Bonus Tip: Let the Movers Do Their Job

Once your truck arrives and the crew begins loading, try to give them the space they need to work efficiently. You've done the heavy lifting in preparation, now it's their turn. Be available for questions, but avoid micromanaging. Your mover’s experience and training help ensure your belongings are packed safely and efficiently.

Final Thoughts

Being prepared before the moving truck arrives is one of the best ways to ensure a smooth and successful moving day. Taking care of these five key tasks ahead of time will reduce surprises, keep things on schedule, and help both you and your moving crew stay focused and stress-free.

If you’re still deciding between a DIY move or hiring professionals, or want help packing before your truck shows up, contact Verity Van Lines, we’re here to make moving day one less thing to worry about.

For More Moving Tips, Read These Articles.