MOVING DAY

a “last minute box” to include such items as coffee, mugs, and breakfast food and dishes for the day after the move.

On moving day

“Make sure the dog and the cat are safely secured behind a locked door with a sign on it that says, ‘(Pet) Inside: Do Not Open,’” instructs Grace.

And it’s a good idea to be sure your children will be thoroughly occupied on an occasion when strange new faces (and feet) will be the source of so much noise, activity and disruption of routine.

“Make sure … you haven’t packed every single coloring book that they own, or their special bear or their special blanket.”

“Be sure you know what time the movers are coming and how many of them there will be,” Grace advises.

Of course, good etiquette is always in order.

Once they arrive, Carlile recommends learning the names of your movers, even using name tags if you feel comfortable. “If you treat people with respect, you’re going to get a much better job out of them.”

“I like to ask clients to have lunch for the movers on moving day,” states Grace, adding that plenty of water should be available for workers and family members alike.

According to Grace, “movers ... slide through your house like a hurricane, getting everything loaded into the truck.”

In the midst of the whirlwind, even when something does goes awry, taking a moment to breathe and reflect will help keep things in perspective.

“This is the time to be very kind to one another,” remarks Carlisle. “People are not themselves. They’re altered.” She believes clients are often under more emotional pressure than they care to acknowledge.

Even the best prepared among us cannot entirely eliminate mishap or delay on moving day. But taking advantage of guidance from industry professionals can help sidestep catastrophe, helping to keep undue stress at bay. After all, you will need some emotional energy in reserve to tackle the unpacking process at your new home.