What Movers Wish You Knew Before They Arrive

Moving day can be chaotic, stressful, and full of unexpected challenges. Want your move to go smoothly? Here's what professional movers wish every client knew before they arrive at their doorstep.

June 6, 2025
Close-Up Shot of Men Carrying a Couch

The Prep Work Makes All the Difference

Professional movers appreciate clients who understand that preparation is key to a successful move. Before your moving team arrives:

  • Complete all packing at least 24 hours before - Scrambling to pack while movers are waiting costs you money and creates unnecessary stress
  • Label every box clearly with its contents and destination room
  • Separate essentials into clearly marked boxes you'll keep with you
  • Take photos of electronic setups before disconnecting them

Many people underestimate how long packing takes. What seems like "just a few things left" often turns into hours of last-minute rushing. Remember, most moving companies charge by the hour, so having everything ready saves you money.

Access Matters More Than You Think

One of the biggest challenges Spartan movers face is simply getting to your belongings. Before moving day:

  • Reserve elevators if you live in an apartment building
  • Clear pathways through your home—at least 3-4 feet wide
  • Identify and communicate any tricky stairs, narrow hallways, or low doorways
  • Arrange for legal parking for the moving truck as close to your entrance as possible
  • Remove obstacles from your driveway and walkways

Pro tip: Measure your largest furniture pieces and doorways to identify potential problems before moving day. Sometimes furniture needs to be disassembled, and knowing this in advance saves valuable time.

What Can (and Cannot) Be Moved

Moving companies have specific policies about what they can transport. Knowing these in advance prevents day-of disappointments:

  • Hazardous materials like paint, propane, fertilizers, and certain cleaning supplies cannot be transported
  • Perishable foods typically aren't moved
  • Valuable items like jewelry, important documents, and family heirlooms should travel with you
  • Plants may have restrictions, especially for interstate moves

When in doubt, ask your local moving company about specific items before moving day. This simple step helps avoid surprises and ensures you have alternative plans for transporting restricted items.

The True Cost of Moving

Understanding moving costs helps prevent sticker shock. When preparing for movers:

  • Get a detailed estimate that specifies hourly rates, number of movers, and additional fees
  • Ask about potential extra charges (stairs, long carries, bulky items)
  • Understand that last-minute additions can significantly impact your final bill
  • Know what payment methods are accepted

Many clients don't realize that adding "just one more thing" can extend the timeline and increase costs. Being upfront about everything that needs to be moved during the estimation process results in more accurate quotes.

Your Presence Makes a Difference

How you behave on moving day impacts efficiency:

  • Be present (or have a trusted representative) who can make decisions
  • Avoid micromanaging experienced movers but be available for questions
  • Keep children and pets secured in a closed room or, better yet, offsite
  • Provide clear directions about where furniture and boxes should go

Most affordable moving services in Spartanburg appreciate clients who strike the right balance—available but not hovering over every action.

The 2025 Relocation Trend: Digital Inventory

In line with current moving trends, consider creating a digital inventory of your belongings before the move. This emerging 2025 relocation trend helps:

  • Track your items throughout the moving process
  • Provide documentation for insurance purposes
  • Streamline unpacking at your new location
  • Make communication with movers more precise

Many moving apps now allow you to photograph and catalog items, making it easier to ensure everything arrives safely at your destination.

Conclusion: Partnership Creates Success

The most successful moves happen when clients and movers work as partners. By understanding what professional movers need to do their job effectively, you set the stage for a smooth transition to your new home.

Ready to put these insights into action? Start with a comprehensive moving checklist and reach out to experienced Spartan movers for personalized advice on your specific situation. Your well-prepared move begins with a conversation—contact us today for moving tips tailored to your unique needs.