How to Prepare for Moving Day in Calgary: Final Steps Checklist

The final days before your Calgary move can feel chaotic. With the truck scheduled and boxes (mostly) packed, focusing on the last crucial steps ensures moving day itself runs smoothly. This checklist covers key tasks for the 24-48 hours leading up to your movers' arrival. Make sure you've also reviewed our comprehensive 8-week moving checklist for earlier planning stages.

1. Confirm Details with Your Moving Company

Use the day before moving day to tie up loose ends and prepare your space.

• Final Confirmation with Movers: Make one last call to Move Calgary Now or your chosen Calgary moving company. Confirm:
  • Exact arrival time window.
  • Number of movers expected.
  • Lead mover's name (if possible) and company contact number for day-of issues.
  • Payment method details and when payment is due.
  • Reiterate any specific instructions, access challenges, or fragile items needing special attention.
• Pack Your Essentials Box ("Open First" Box): This is non-negotiable! Pack a suitcase, duffel bag, or clearly labeled box with everything you'll need for the first 12-24 hours in your new home, *before* you unpack everything else. Keep this box separate from items the movers will take – transport it yourself. Include:
  • Medications for all family members (including pets).
  • Basic toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, toilet paper!).
  • Phone chargers and portable power banks.
  • Important documents (moving contract/bill of lading, lease/closing papers, IDs, passports).
  • A change of clothes and pajamas for everyone.
  • Basic tools (box cutter, multi-tool/screwdriver, scissors, tape).
  • Snacks, water bottles, instant coffee/tea bags, kettle (if easily accessible).
  • Basic cleaning supplies (paper towels, all-purpose spray).
  • Pet food, water bowls, leash, waste bags.
  • Comfort items for children.
• Prepare Appliances:
  • Ensure refrigerator and freezer are completely emptied, defrosted (allow 24 hours if possible), cleaned, and dried to prevent mildew. Secure doors with tape or rope (check mover's preference).
  • Disconnect washing machine hoses and drain completely. Secure the drum according to manufacturer instructions (using shipping bolts if you still have them).
  • Disconnect dryer (ensure gas line is professionally disconnected if applicable). Clean lint trap.
• Finish Last-Minute Packing: Pack remaining toiletries (except essentials box items), bedding currently in use (pack right before bed), and any other stragglers. Keep bedding easily accessible for the first night.
• Clear Pathways & Prepare Home:
  • Ensure hallways, doorways, and main traffic areas are completely clear of boxes, furniture, or obstacles.
  • Remove loose rugs or secure them firmly to prevent tripping hazards.
  • Take down pictures or wall hangings in main pathways if they could be easily knocked.
  • Discuss floor protection (runners, cardboard) with your movers or lay down your own in high-traffic areas if needed.
  • Designate a clear area for movers to stage boxes as they bring them in/out.
• Secure Parking: If you haven't already, ensure parking is secured for the moving truck at both locations. Put up signs, cones, or park your own vehicles there overnight if permitted and necessary, moving them just before the truck arrives.
• Plan for Children & Pets: Confirm arrangements for childcare or pet-sitting for moving day. If they will be present, designate a safe, quiet room away from the action with necessary supplies.
• Get Cash for Tips/Incidentals: If you plan to tip the movers in cash (see our guide on tipping movers in Calgary), withdraw the necessary amount.
• Charge Electronics: Ensure your phone and any backup power banks are fully charged.
• Get a Good Night's Sleep! Resist the urge to stay up all night packing. Rest is crucial for managing moving day stress.

Moving Day Morning: Final Steps Before the Movers Arrive

Stay calm and work through these final tasks.

• Wake Up Early: Give yourself plenty of time; don't rush.
• Pack Last Bedding: Strip beds and pack linens/pillows in clearly marked boxes.
• Clear Kitchen Essentials: Pack the last few kitchen items after breakfast (coffee maker, toaster). Keep mugs/spoons for movers if offering drinks.
• Protect Mattress & Box Spring: Use mattress bags to keep them clean during transit.
• Final Sweep & Check: Walk through every single room, closet, cupboard, drawer, attic, basement, garage, shed, and outdoor area. Check behind doors, under stairs, everywhere! Ensure nothing is accidentally left behind.
• Secure Valuables: Double-check that jewelry, important documents, laptops, and other valuables you plan to transport yourself are secured and separate from items being moved.
• Prepare Refreshments (Optional): Have water bottles, coffee, or simple snacks available for the moving crew – it's a much-appreciated gesture.
• Clear Walkways (Again): If there was overnight rain or snow (hello, Calgary!), do a quick check and clear/salt pathways again if needed.
• Keep Phone Handy: Ensure your phone is charged and accessible in case the movers need to call.
• Assign Roles (If Family Helping): Briefly designate tasks for family members helping out (e.g., who directs movers, who watches kids/pets).

When the Calgary Movers Arrive:

• Greet the Crew: Introduce yourself to the foreman/lead mover.
• Initial Walkthrough: Walk them through your home, pointing out items requiring special care, items *not* being moved (essentials box, valuables), and confirming the general plan.
• Review & Sign Paperwork: Carefully review the Bill of Lading before signing. Ensure it accurately reflects the services and terms. Keep your copy accessible.
• Stay Available, But Out of the Way: Be present to answer questions but avoid hovering or obstructing the movers' work. Let the professionals do their job efficiently.

Thorough **preparation for moving day** transforms a potentially chaotic event into a manageable process. By tackling these final steps systematically, you set the stage for a smoother, faster, and less stressful relocation experience with your chosen **Calgary movers**.