Moving day has a way of arriving faster than expected. One week you're making lists, the next you're watching strangers carry your sofa out the front door. Knowing what actually happens – and in what order – makes the whole thing considerably less stressful.
Here is what to expect when a Smoother Movers crew arrives at your door.
Before the Movers Arrive
A little preparation the night before goes a long way. Get a decent sleep. Have coffee ready. Make sure pathways through every room are clear, because movers need wide, unobstructed routes to work safely and quickly.
If you live in a condo or apartment building, confirm that you have reserved the elevator in advance. Freight elevator access is time-limited in most buildings, and a blocked elevator can slow a move significantly. If children or pets are home, arrange for them to be somewhere else for the day. It keeps everyone safer and lets the crew work without interruption.
Before the truck is loaded, check that your boxes are properly labelled with both their contents and their destination room. Your crew will place items directly where they need to go in your new home, so clear labels cut unpacking time considerably.
Step 1: The Walkthrough
Full-service movers begin with a complete walkthrough of your home. The crew will assess every item, note its condition, and create a written inventory. Review the inventory carefully and flag anything that is not described accurately before work begins.
This is also the moment to point out anything that needs special attention: fragile pieces, items with sentimental value, furniture that needs to be disassembled, or tight corners and narrow staircases the crew should know about.
Step 2: Packing and Protection
Once the walkthrough is complete, the crew gets to work. Fragile items are wrapped individually. Furniture is blanketed and shrink-wrapped. Clothing goes into wardrobe boxes so it arrives wrinkle-free. Dishes and glassware go into specialty cartons.
If you have not finished packing everything yourself, let the crew know upfront. They can assist, but it is worth flagging early so the timeline can be adjusted.
This is a good time to set aside anything you want to keep with you personally during the move: medications, important documents, valuables, your overnight bag, phone chargers, and anything you will need immediately before the new home is fully unpacked. Keep those items separate and out of the way of the crew.
Step 3: Loading the Truck
The crew will determine the loading order based on item size, weight, and how things will fit together in the truck. Heavier, sturdier items go in first. Fragile pieces are positioned carefully. Everything is secured to prevent shifting in transit.
A complete list of every item being loaded is compiled during this stage. Keep the atmosphere calm and distraction-free. A crew that can focus works faster and more carefully.
Before the truck leaves, do a final walkthrough of your home. Check closets, under beds, behind doors, and in the garage. Once the truck pulls away, going back is rarely straightforward.
Step 4: Transit and the Bill of Lading
Once everything is loaded and secured, the driver will ask you to sign a bill of lading. This document confirms your moving estimate, the dates of pickup and delivery, and your selected valuation level. Read it before signing.
If anything has changed from your original estimate – additional items, a longer carry distance, stair fees – this is the time to discuss it. Reputable movers have no issue explaining every line.
Step 5: Unloading and Placement
When the crew arrives at your new home, they will unload and place items in the rooms indicated on your labels. Disassembled furniture gets reassembled. Boxes go to the rooms where they belong.
Before the crew leaves, walk through the new home and confirm that everything has arrived and that nothing has been damaged. Any concerns should be raised on the day, not after the crew has gone.
A Note on Tipping
Tipping is not required, but it is genuinely appreciated when a crew has done good work. If your movers handled your belongings with care, worked efficiently, and made a stressful day easier, a tip acknowledges that. The amount is up to you.
Moving Day at a Glance
| Stage | What Happens |
| Before arrival | Clear pathways, reserve elevator, arrange children/pets |
| Walkthrough | Inventory created, condition of items noted |
| Packing | Fragile items wrapped, furniture blanketed and shrink-wrapped |
| Loading | Items loaded in sequence, truck secured |
| Bill of lading | Signed before departure, confirms estimate and valuation |
| Unloading | Items placed by room, furniture reassembled |
| Final check | Walk through new home, raise any concerns before crew leaves |
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do the night before moving day?
Pack anything that is not yet boxed, label everything clearly with contents and destination room, confirm elevator reservations if applicable, and set aside a bag with essentials you will need immediately – medications, toiletries, chargers, an overnight change of clothes.
Do I need to be present the whole time on moving day?
You do not need to hover, but you should be reachable and available to answer questions. Stay out of the crew's way while they work, but be on site to handle anything that comes up.
What should I keep with me rather than putting on the truck?
Valuables, important documents, medications, jewellery, family photos, and anything irreplaceable. These should travel with you personally.
What happens if something is damaged during the move?
Raise it before the crew leaves and note it on the bill of lading. Your moving company's valuation coverage will apply depending on the level you selected. If you have any concerns about coverage, ask about valuation options before moving day.
How long does a typical move take?
It depends on the size of your home and the distance involved. A one-bedroom apartment typically takes two to four hours with a two-person crew. A three-bedroom home might take a full day. Your estimator will give you a more specific timeframe based on your particular move.
Ready to book?
Get a free estimate or call Smoother Movers at 604-682-2232 (Vancouver) or 604-987-8655 (North Vancouver). We are available seven days a week.