Move-in day is exciting — but let’s be honest, it’s also one of the most exhausting parts of relocating. Between unloading boxes, directing movers, and settling into a new space, the day can quickly become overwhelming. The good news? With a little preparation and organization, you can make the transition into your new home much smoother.
Here are five quick, expert-backed tips to simplify move-in day and set yourself up for success.
1. Prep Easy Snacks and Meals
Moving is hard work, and everyone will need fuel to get through the day. Pack simple grab-and-go snacks like protein bars, trail mix, fruit, and bottled drinks. For meals, keep it stress-free by planning for pizza delivery, sandwiches, or takeout. Having food ready prevents unnecessary delays and keeps your crew energized.
2. Open “Unpack First” Boxes
One of our favorite moving hacks is to prepare dedicated unpack first boxes. These should include the everyday essentials you’ll need within the first 24 hours:
- Paper plates and disposable utensils
- Shower curtain liners and bath towels
- Toiletries and medications
- Bedding and pillows
- Hand soap, dish soap, and basic cleaning supplies
- Children's toys, pet necessities, and any other first-night essentials
Unloading these right away ensures your family can eat, sleep, and clean up comfortably while the rest of the house is still in boxes.
3. Hire Childcare and/or a Pet Sitter
Move-in day is easier when you can focus fully on unpacking and coordinating with movers. Hiring childcare or arranging a pet sitter frees you up to handle priority tasks, like checking off inventory numbers as boxes come in and inspecting for damage. This step also keeps kids and pets safe and cared for during the busy chaos of unloading.
4. Use a Color-Coded Moving System
A color-coded moving label system is a game changer on move-in day. Label boxes by room and use matching door signs so movers know exactly where each box belongs. This prevents confusion, saves you from shouting directions, and helps movers work independently and efficiently. The result? Faster unloading and less chaos in your new home.
Not using movers? We've got a smaller moving kit for DIY moves.
5. Have a Furniture Placement Plan
Before move-in day, decide exactly where each large furniture piece will go in your new home. Share this plan with your movers so they can place items correctly the first time. A little preparation goes a long way in preventing heavy lifting later when you’re exhausted and trying to rearrange a couch or bed.
Final Thoughts
Move-in day doesn’t have to feel like a marathon. With the right preparation — from stocking snacks to labeling boxes — you can stay organized, save time, and settle into your new space with less stress.
Looking for tools to make your next move easier? Explore our color-coded moving labels, moving kits, and relocation essentials — designed to simplify moving day for families, military PCS moves, and professional relocations alike.
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Article by Shea Sines, an active duty military spouse, seasoned mover, and owner/founder of BoxOps. Outside of obsessing over a better move, you can find her managing a house full of kids and dogs, watching Philadelphia sports and Alabama football, assisting her military FRG group, enjoying a local brewery, and checking her weather radar app.
