The best moves aren’t a mystery — they’re the result of a simple plan executed well. Below is the same playbook our crews use every week across Ramsey, Ridgewood, Mahwah, and the rest of Bergen County.
- Reserve early, especially in peak season. Book 4–6 weeks out for June–September. Prime time slots (and building elevator windows) go fast.
- Declutter before you pack. Donate, recycle, or sell the items you don’t love or need. Fewer boxes = a faster, cheaper move and a cleaner start in your new place.
- Label by Room → Contents → Priority. Label three sides of each box. Add a quick priority code:
NOW / SOON / LATER
. Your future self will thank you. - Create an “Open First” kit. Pack a clear plastic tote with toiletries, meds, chargers, a few dishes, towels, and a change of clothes. Keep it with you, not on the truck.
- Protect the fragile stuff like a pro. Dish barrels for plates, picture cartons for frames, mirror cartons for glass, and plenty of paper between layers. When in doubt: more padding.
- Confirm access and parking. Check street parking rules, loading dock reservations, and elevator timeframes. Need a certificate of insurance (COI)? We issue them every day — just ask.
- Update utilities and address one week prior. Power, gas, internet, USPS, banking, subscriptions, and any medical or pet records. Pro tip: snap photos of your current meter readings.
- Stage your home for move day. Clear walkways, keep pets safe, and group boxes by room. Lay down a “staging zone” near the front door for outgoing items.
- Photograph cable setups & furniture hardware. Quick reference photos make reassembly painless.
- Walkthrough before you hand over keys. Check cabinets, closets, basement, attic, and garage. Leave remotes and manuals labeled on the kitchen counter.
Sample Move-Day Timeline
- 7:30–8:00 AM: Crew arrival, quick tour, flooring protection.
- 8:00–11:30 AM: Load rooms in priority order (lower floors then upper, heavy then light).
- Lunch + Travel: Crew secures load, confirms route, heads to destination.
- Afternoon: Unload, assemble beds first, boxes staged by label. Final sweep & signatures.
What About Packing Materials?
We stock the good stuff — double-wall boxes, dish barrels, wardrobe cartons, heavy-duty tape, and clean packing paper. See our moving supplies shop if you want everything delivered to your door.
“The difference between a hectic move and a smooth move is rarely luck. It’s a plan.”
FAQ
Q: How far in advance should I book?
A: For weekends or end-of-month slots in summer, the earlier the better — 4–6 weeks out is ideal.
Q: Do you provide COIs?
A: Yes. Send your building’s sample and we’ll issue a compliant certificate.
Want a move plan tailored to your home and timeline? Request a free quote — we’ll build a checklist and estimate that match your exact needs.