5 Small Things That Make Moving Day Go Smoother (and Earn Your Movers’ Gratitude) 

And in the season of gratitude, they’re a simple way to say thank you before the first box is carried out the door.

1. Book the Elevator and Loading Dock Early

In many NYC buildings, freight elevators and loading docks are shared and reserved in time slots. Many buildings also require residents to make these reservations themselves through building management. As soon as you have a move date, contact management at both addresses. Ask about elevator and loading dock reservations, approved move hours, and any Certificate of Insurance (COI) requirements.

Once your reservations are made, Shleppers can take it from there. Just share your building details when you book. Our team will coordinate with building management, submit your COI, and confirm that every reservation and requirement is in place before Move Day, so nothing catches you by surprise when the crew arrives.

2. Label Boxes by Room

A box marked “stuff” doesn’t tell anyone much. Label each box with the room it belongs in, plus a quick note about what’s inside. Writing on the top and at least one side keeps labels visible, even when boxes are stacked.

Rather skip the packing and labeling altogether? Let Shleppers pack you up. Our team will make sure every box is clearly labeled, so unloading goes faster and you won’t spend your first night searching for the coffee maker.

3. Clear the Pathways

Before the crew arrives, walk from your front door to the farthest room. Move rugs, shoes, plants, and anything else that could get in the way, and make sure hallways and doorways are open.

Clear paths help movers carry furniture safely and efficiently. If you have pets, plan to keep them in a quiet room or with a friend for the day.

4. Finish Packing Before the Crew Arrives

It’s easy to underestimate how long those last few boxes will take. Aim to have everything packed, taped, and ready the night before, except for a bag of essentials you’ll keep with you.

When movers arrive to a fully packed home, they can get straight to work and keep the day moving.

Prefer to delegate this task to someone else (because November has enough busy in it)? As mentioned above, Shleppers also has full-service packing.

5. Be Reachable on Move Day

Keep your phone charged and nearby, and make sure your movers have the best number to reach you. Questions about building access, parking, or where a piece of furniture should go can come up quickly, and a fast answer keeps everything on track.

If you won’t be on-site the whole time, let the crew know who will be, and share that person’s contact information ahead of time.

Small Steps, Smoother Move

Each of these steps takes little time, but together they help Move Day run on schedule and make your crew’s job easier, especially in NYC buildings with reserved move windows and tight hallways. With the move behind you, you can head into Thanksgiving already settled in your new home.

Planning a move this season? Let Shleppers do the shlepping so you can settle in, put up your menorah (or tree) and enjoy the holidays.

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