Overview

Hiring a professional moving service with full-service packing can make your move far less stressful, but a little prep goes a long way. Before the packing team arrives, purge your home of unwanted items, remove anything they can’t legally pack (like flammables or perishables), and set up a clearly marked “do not pack” zone. It’s also smart to create an itemized inventory and prep your appliances ahead of time. These steps help your movers work efficiently and protect your belongings.

Five Important Things to Do Before Your Professional Moving Service Packs Your Home

Choosing a professional moving service is one of the smartest decisions you can make when planning a move. With trained experts handling your belongings, you reduce the risk of damage, save time, and minimize the stress that often comes with relocating. But even if you’ve hired a full-service mover that includes professional packing, your job isn’t done yet. A little preparation on your end can help ensure that moving day runs as smoothly and efficiently as possible.

Here are five key things you should do before the professional packers arrive at your door.

1. Purge Your Home Before the Professional Moving Service Arrives

Before you let anyone start boxing up your belongings, take the time to go through your home and purge the items you no longer want or need. Not only will this save you money (because you won’t be paying to pack and move things you won’t use), but it will also help streamline the entire moving process.

A good rule of thumb: if you haven’t used it in the past year and it’s not sentimental or seasonal, you probably don’t need to take it. Decluttering ahead of time is especially important for specialized services like estate cleanouts or senior moves, where time, space, and efficiency are top priorities.

Be sure to check closets, basements, attics, and outdoor sheds. Once you've purged the unnecessary items, you can donate, sell, or responsibly dispose of them.

2. Remove Items That Can’t Be Packed

Even with a full-service move, there are certain things professional packing services can’t legally or safely pack. These include:

• • Hazardous materials like paint, propane, aerosols, and cleaning chemicals
  • Perishable food items from your refrigerator or freezer
  • Houseplants (many moving companies do not transport them due to fragility and state regulations)

Make alternate arrangements for these items. You can give away perishables and plants to neighbors or friends, and dispose of hazardous items at your local recycling or waste center.

3. Set Aside a "Do Not Pack" Zone

Designate a clear area in your home for items that should not be packed. This might include:

• • Important documents (passports, medical records, financial papers)
  • Daily essentials (medications, chargers, snacks, toiletries)
  • Travel bags or suitcases
  • Valuables and sentimental items (jewelry, family heirlooms)

Use signs or tape to clearly label this space, and notify the packing crew when they arrive. This prevents any confusion and ensures that these essential items stay with you.

4. Create an Inventory or Checklist

Keeping track of what’s being packed is essential, especially if you’re moving long-distance or using temporary storage solutions. Creating a checklist or digital inventory helps:

• • Track valuable or high-priority items
  • Simplify the unpacking process
  • Assist in case of damage or loss during the move

Some professional movers offer inventory tools or will create one for you. But having your own list can give you added peace of mind.

5. Prepare Your Appliances and Fragile Items

Before the packing team arrives, make sure any large household appliances are unplugged, cleaned, and dry. This includes:

• • Refrigerators and freezers (which should be defrosted at least 24 hours in advance)
  • Washing machines and dryers (disconnect hoses and clean out lint traps)
  • Dishwashers and ovens (clean thoroughly to avoid odors and spills)

Taking these steps not only makes the moving process easier but also helps protect your items and your new home. If you’re using white glove moving services, these high-touch specialists will handle delicate items with exceptional care, but having them prepped in advance speeds things up.

Bonus Tip: Stock Up on the Right Packing Supplies (Just in Case)

While your professional moving service will typically bring everything they need, it’s never a bad idea to have some packing supplies on hand, especially for last-minute items or things you plan to pack yourself. Think bubble wrap, packing tape, markers, and a few extra boxes.

Plan Ahead for Specialty Services

Every move is unique, and your needs might go beyond the basics. If you're moving internationally, for example, you'll want a mover experienced in international moves who understands customs regulations and overseas shipping logistics. If your relocation involves valuable antiques or artwork, opting for full packing services will provide you with the added security of professionally packed, fully insured transport.

Final Thoughts

Hiring a professional moving service with expert packers can dramatically reduce the stress and workload of your move, but preparing in advance is still essential. By purging your home, knowing what can’t be packed, organizing a "do not pack" area, taking inventory, and prepping your appliances, you’ll help ensure a smooth, efficient move from start to finish.

And remember: the team at Verity Van Lines offers comprehensive services including expert packing, estate cleanouts, short- and long-term storage, and both local and international relocations. Whether you need white glove care or help with downsizing, we’re here to help you move forward with confidence.

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