Moving house is exciting — but it can quickly become overwhelming if you’re not fully prepared. Many people wonder, What do I need to do before the movers arrive?. A little preparation goes a long way. At London Man Van, we’ve helped thousands of people move across the city, and we know exactly what helps make moving day safe, efficient, and stress-free. This guide covers everything you need to do to get your home ready for the big day.
Table of Contents
If you’re doing the packing yourself, make sure everything is ready before the movers arrive:
Booked our Packing Service? Then relax — we’ll handle everything safely and efficiently.
Make it easy for your movers to navigate your home:
Pro tip: Keep pets and kids in a safe room to avoid accidents.
This bag should stay with you — not go in the van. Include:
Label it clearly and place it somewhere it won’t be packed by accident.
If you're moving your fridge or freezer:
Tip: Let us know if you’re moving appliances so we can bring the right gear.
You’re responsible for making sure there’s space for the van:
Unsure what’s required? Contact us for help with parking regulations in your area.
Before your movers arrive, quickly snap photos of:
These photos help with insurance claims if damage occurs — although we pack everything with care and provide Goods in Transit Insurance (when packed by us).
Well-labelled boxes make life easier for everyone. Use large, clear labels that state:
This helps us place boxes in the right rooms and speeds up your unpacking.
Moving day is noisy and chaotic — and not ideal for little ones or animals.
Before your movers leave, do a final walkthrough:
It’s easy to miss things — especially in top cupboards and behind doors!
Should I help the movers carry items?
No — it’s best to leave lifting to the pros. For insurance and safety reasons, our team is trained to handle heavy and bulky items properly.
Can I leave drawers full?
No — drawers should be emptied. Leaving items inside increases the risk of damage to furniture and makes lifting more difficult.
What if I’m not ready when the movers arrive?
Delays can result in additional charges. If you’re running behind, let us know — or book our packing team to get everything ready in time.
Do I need to disconnect appliances before moving?
Yes — disconnect and defrost appliances in advance. Movers are not typically responsible for unplumbing washing machines or gas cookers.
What should I pack in my essentials bag?
Include anything you’ll need for the day and night. Think: documents, chargers, snacks, toiletries, baby or pet supplies, and clothes.
Should I label my boxes?
Yes — this helps movers place items in the right rooms. Clearly marked boxes also make unpacking much faster and less stressful.
How early should I start preparing for the move?
Ideally, begin 3–4 weeks before moving day. Start with decluttering, followed by packing non-essentials, and final packing the week before.
What should I do with kids and pets on moving day?
Arrange childcare or pet care if possible. If not, keep them safe in a quiet, distraction-free space while movers do their job.
Preparing your home properly before the movers arrive saves time, reduces stress, and helps everything go smoothly. With early planning, labelled boxes, a cleared path, and your essentials packed separately, your move will be faster and more efficient.
🏡 Ready to make your move smooth and stress-free?
Trust London Man Van - your professional, reliable moving team in London. We offer fully insured services, packing support, and flexible scheduling to fit your needs.
📞 Or call 020 7060 4743 for personalised help and advice.
RECENT BLOGS
BLOG CATGERIES
Join our newsletter and get £20 off your next move with London Man Van. Enjoy exclusive offers, promotions, and expert moving tips delivered to your inbox!
