Moving Day Etiquette: Keep Neighbors & Movers Happy
We know how hard moving days can be, with hauling boxes and loading trucks. It's a day full of chaos, stress, sweat, logistics, and hassle.
More often, it ends up in a heated argument, which is definitely not nice - not for you as you are beginning a new chapter of life, and not for the movers - as they just spent a day working hard.
However, you can avoid these mishaps by practicing proper etiquette and managing things with patience and staying calm.
This guide covers essential moving day etiquette and will give you simple yet effective tips to ensure that everyone, from the professional movers to the neighbors living next door, feels respected and considered.
Inform Your Neighbors Ahead of Time
Shifting to a new neighborhood can be challenging, but it can be easily dealt with with the support of the right neighbors. For this, you need to make a strong impression and be compassionate.
Inform your new neighbors when you will move in, as no one likes waking up to the noise of people yelling, a sudden truck blocking their driveway, or movers carrying furniture at 7 a.m.
By simply letting them know when you will move, you can foster trust and connection and build respect.
Make sure you don’t block any driveways, walkways, or access to roads with the trucks or the furniture.
Try to keep the boxes off the lawn and respect shared space; by doing these simple things, you can start your new chapter on good terms.
Plan the Parking Situation
Parking usually causes the greatest frustration on moving days, whether it is on a busy city street, an apartment block loading dock, or a small suburban neighborhood driveway.
Although things may seem okay, they will likely lead to parking being a hassle; it is better to think ahead about where you will park the truck.
Inquire with the management regarding the reservation of elevators or the loading areas. When you are moving into an area with an HOA, you should check the regulations on timings and trucks.
One bit of planning now and then can be used to avoid fires, hold-ups, and bad relations with your neighbors before you move in.
Prepare Your Home for the Movers
A lot of people look for the answer to: Are you supposed to help movers? Movers appreciate homes that do not make them hassle more and are clean.
That’s why it’s better to clean hallways, staircases, and doorways before the movers to make sure that there is no clutter blocking their path.
On wet or icy days, make sure to sweep, shovel, and salt outdoors, to prevent slips. A simple act of laying down rugs or mats at the entry point can reduce a lot of mess inside.
To further streamline the procedure, label your boxes and mark the fragile items clearly. If it’s feasible, try to reserve an elevator for use in apartment buildings. These small gestures not only show your respect but also make the procedure fast.
Arrange for Kids and Pets to Be Elsewhere
Moving can be chaotic; with random people in your house, it might be hard for your kids and your pets. It's better not to have them underfoot.
Movers are carrying heavy dressers, navigating tight staircases, and also can’t worry about tripping over a curious toddler or a darting cat.
If it's possible, try to arrange for kids and pets to spend the day at a friend’s or family member’s house. If it's not arrangeable, try to set up one room where they can stay comfortable until the move is complete.
This way, they will be safe, in a quiet room, and comfortable, and it will also prevent any unwanted distraction.
Be Present Without Hovering
What do you do when movers are moving? It's important to be available during the move, but micromanaging everything is not.
Yes, movers will need your input, might ask you a question or two, and will need you to sign the paperwork.
Professional movers usually know how to maneuver large items, pack trucks, and move everything without damaging anything.
Trust them, be present, but don't hover over them. Staying calm, polite, and approachable creates a much better working environment than second-guessing every move.
This will save you time and energy, leading to a successful move without any arguments or mishaps.
Provide Refreshments and Comfort
Many people are confused about this one: should they offer refreshments to the movers or not? Moving is physically demanding, and small gestures like this can go a long way.
Try to set up a cooler with ice outside and bottled water chilled in the fridge. On hot days, sports drinks can help you replenish your energy. In winter, offer coffee or hot cocoa to help maintain high energy levels.
If you want, you can add little snacks like fruits, granola bars, and sandwiches, especially if the move takes several hours.
Follow Through on Your Commitments
Nothing is more frustrating than extra work at the last moment. If you have told the movers that you will disassemble the furniture, or disconnect the appliances, and pack the fragile boxes, then make sure you complete these tasks before they arrive.
Surprising them with extra heavy furniture or last-minute add-ons creates frustration and may lead to additional fees. Proper preparation isn’t just about efficiency; it is about showing respect for the crew’s time and efforts.
Keep Valuables With You
There are certain things in our belongings that we can’t trust anyone with; it's better to handle them personally, such as important documents, heirlooms, jewelry, and essential electronics.
This not only avoids liability concerns but also gives you peace of mind during an already hectic day.
Alternative to Traditional Movers
Most people opt for traditional movers, but there is a better alternative to the movers, and it's the portable storage.
It completely takes away the hassle of moving day, movers cramming inside your house, and the chaos. With our portable storage units, you get to pack at your own pace.
Pack without any rush, and when you are done, we will come and pick it up and deliver it to your new location.
This way, you can avoid the hassle, and you will know exactly how everything is packed, and there will be no deadline hovering over you.
Tip and Thank the Movers
However, if you do choose the movers, remember tipping movers is not mandatory, but it is a moving etiquette and a meaningful way to show gratitude for a job well done.
For the shorter distance, $20 to $25 per mover is standard. However, if you are booking a full-day job or a particularly complex one, $40 to $60 per mover is standard.
You can further adjust it based on their work, attitude, efforts, and level of service. If you're unable to tip for any reason, remember that refreshments, kindness, and a sincere thank you are still greatly appreciated.
Movers who feel appreciated are more motivated to go the extra mile. For friends who help, repay them with dinner, a gift card, or even a thoughtful thank-you note. Gratitude makes all the difference.
Conclusion
If you expect moving to be stress-free, then you are putting your expectations in the wrong place. But, with proper manners of moving, you can make it smoother for everyone involved.
Inform your neighbors, prepare your home, respect your mover’s work, and practice kindness; all of this can transform your day from a dreaded chore to a manageable process.
Remember, your energy has a huge impact on everything; it sets the tone for your new beginning, so don't forget to start this beautiful chapter with consideration, respect, and goodwill.
If you need further assistance, The Mobile Storage Guy is here to help with storage and moving. Leave all your moving worries to us and focus on the new beginning.