Communicating Clearly With Your Movers

One of the biggest causes of moving-day stress is simple: assumptions. You assume the movers know what’s coming. They assume you’ve decided what’s staying. The best moves happen when everything is clear—early.

Start with a basic communication packet (it can be a note on your phone):

• Move date(s) and addresses

• Parking notes, stairs/elevators, tight turns, gate codes

• “Do not pack” zones (medicine cabinet, documents, daily essentials)

• High-value/sentimental items that need special handling

Then, make your “moving vs. not moving” decision unmistakable. The easiest method is color coding: one color sticker for “GO,” another for “STAY.” Put stickers on furniture and on the doorframes of rooms that are off-limits. If something is not moving, keep it behind a closed door or in a clearly marked area.

For long-distance moves, an accurate estimate depends on knowing exactly what’s moving and what services you want (packing, storage, valuation, special handling). Bekins specifically emphasizes being prepared with your move date/location, which belongings you’re taking, and how you want valuables treated. Bekins Sun Valley Transfer & Storage also describes an in-home or virtual survey where a moving consultant inventories your household and flags fragile/oversized items—this is where clarity pays off. Sun Valley Transfer & Storage

Finally, don’t forget the “small but critical” details: which boxes you want opened first, what furniture should be disassembled, and any items that must remain upright. A five-minute walkthrough with your lead mover at the start can prevent hours of confusion later.