How to Prepare Your Family for a Move

Quick Answer: Start early, stay positive, involve your kids in packing, and arrange care for pets and young children on moving day. Hiring a professional moving company takes the heavy lifting off your plate, literally, so your family can focus on the exciting fresh start ahead.

Moving is one of those things that's exciting and overwhelming at the same time. There's the thrill of a new home, a new neighborhood, maybe even a whole new chapter. But there's also the mountain of boxes, the emotional rollercoaster for your kids, and the sheer logistics of it all.

The good news? A little planning goes a long way. Here's everything you need to know about things to do when you move, so your family arrives happy, stress-free, and ready to settle in.

Key Takeaways

We understand how stressful your moving day can be. That's why we put together this short list of guidelines on things to do when you move. Here are the key takeaways (plus some additional advice) to get you and your family ready for the big day.

• Give yourself plenty of time to pack and prepare for moving day

• Explain to your family why you are moving, where you are moving to, and how they can help the process go smoothly

• Visit the new home together if possible so everyone gets excited

• Involve your children in the process to keep them active and reduce uncertainty

• Take plenty of breaks to reduce tension and have some fun before moving day

• Try to keep a positive mindset and reduce anxiety levels

• Arrange to have someone watch your pets and children on moving day

• Work with a trusted, professional moving company to handle the heavy work

• Celebrate your new home when it's all done!

Prepare Ahead of Time

It goes without saying that being well prepared will help moving day go much smoother. Give your family plenty of time to prepare for moving day. This includes visiting the new location, saying goodbye to friends and family, and packing your belongings. Make sure the move doesn't conflict with any major events, and be sure to enlist all the help you need. If you're working with a professional moving company, be sure to plan your moving date well in advance so the movers can plan their routes accordingly. Also, be sure to have a backup date in mind in case of an emergency.

Be Positive

Moving can be a scary and sad experience for children, especially if they are moving for the first time. This uncertainty can lead to anxiety, anger, and outbursts, which make the transition even more difficult. When preparing for a move, try your best to stay positive. Reassure your family about all the positive aspects of moving, like being in a new location, making new friends, and experiencing new things. It’s important that you don’t neglect your own emotions (you may be feeling anxious too), but try to put a positive spin on the experience to reduce the fear and uncertainty about the move.

Create a Packing Plan

Packing is a huge undertaking and one of the most important things to do when you move. It's best to involve all family members so the process goes smoother. First, decide what kind of boxes you want to use.

Packing isn't just throwing stuff in boxes. It's a project. Treat it like one.

• Choose the right boxes: Standard cardboard works fine, but plastic bins are worth it if you're moving during Arizona's monsoon season or expecting any moisture.

• Tackle one room at a time so nothing gets lost in the chaos.

• Label everything clearly with the room name and contents on every box.

• Keep a written inventory so you can track your belongings and confirm everything arrived safely.

Getting the whole family involved makes the process faster and gives everyone a sense of control over the move.

Related Article: How to Prepare for a Winter Move in Arizona

De-Clutter the House

Before you even start packing, it’s a good idea to de-clutter the house by getting rid of unwanted items. Go through old clothes and decide which items can be donated or sold (or in some cases, simply thrown away). You may even find baby clothes that your children don’t fit into anymore. Encourage your children to sort through old toys and donate the ones they no longer use. Involving your children in this process can help them feel a little less nervous about the process.

Let Your Kids Help Pack

Involving your children in the move is a great way to reduce some of their anxiety and fear. Give them a small packing job to keep them active while you prepare. For example, you can ask them to pack their toys and decide which ones will stay or go. Depending on your child’s age, this packing job may require light supervision. Older teenagers may have a better handle on packing, but be sure to keep an eye on younger children so they do not damage anything or accidentally hurt themselves in the process.

Take Breaks (Seriously, Don't Skip This)

Everything about moving is stressful, from visiting the new location to packing to the actual moving day itself. When emotions run high, patience can run thin and fights can break out. To avoid this, be sure to take breaks during the process. Take some time to get out of the house as a family. Watch a movie, go get ice cream, or even enjoy a nice day at the park. The most important thing is to minimize tension so the move can go as smoothly as possible. 

Prepare Your Pets for the Big Day

If you have pets, they’ll feel the stress of moving day too. Pets can feel your stress and anxiety, so try your best to remain calm and patient on the days leading up to moving day. Make sure your pets have somewhere comfortable to rest (such as a kennel or crate) while you are packing. Come moving day, it’s a good idea to have a friend or relative watch your pets so they don’t get in the way of the movers. After you’ve moved in, introduce your pet to the new location slowly and calmly. Prepare a cozy spot for them to rest or hide while they get adjusted to the new house. Make sure to secure all entrances to prevent them from escaping. Above all, be patient. It is not uncommon for pets to have a few accidents around the house because they are stressed.

Get Help From a Moving Company

Moving your entire family is a job that is too big to do on your own. To make sure you get all the help you need, we encourage you to hire a professional moving company. The movers will take care of loading, unloading, and assembling all your belongings, furniture, and appliances. Professional movers can save you a tremendous amount of time, energy, and stress. Your moving company will check in with you a few days before the move to make sure you are ready. Just have a backup date planned in case of bad weather or an unexpected emergency.

When Moving Day Arrives

If you follow this guideline, you should be well-prepared for moving day and hopefully you've learned how to prepare for moving day with your family. When your moving day arrives, it's a good idea to have young children and teens stay under the supervision of a close friend or relative. That way, they don't accidentally get in the way of movers who are carrying heavy objects. Be sure to celebrate a successful move-in, you deserve it!

Andrews Installation Group - Professional Movers in Tempe, AZ

We hope this guide has helped you learn how to prepare your family for a move. If you are planning a move soon, hiring a reputable moving company can make the process a whole lot easier. With over 15 years of moving experience, Andrews Installation Group is a trusted moving company serving Phoenix, Tempe, Scottsdale, and many more locations. 

Call us at 602-334-7912 or contact us online to schedule your move today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How far in advance should I book a professional moving company?

A: Ideally, book your professional movers at least 4 to 6 weeks before your moving date. During peak seasons like summer and end-of-month, the best moving companies fill up fast, especially in Arizona. The earlier you book, the more flexibility you have with dates.

Q: What are the most important things to do when you move with kids?

A: Involve them early, keep communication honest and positive, and give them small tasks so they feel part of the process. Visiting the new home together before the move also helps kids mentally prepare and get excited rather than anxious.

Q: How do I prepare for moving day with pets?

A: Keep your pet's routine normal in the days leading up to the move. On moving day, arrange for someone to watch them at a separate location. Once in the new home, introduce the space gradually, secure all exits, and set up their familiar items like their bed, toys, and bowls right away.

Q: Is it worth hiring professional movers in Arizona vs. doing it yourself?

A: For most families, yes, absolutely. Professional movers bring the equipment, expertise, and manpower that make a huge difference in time, safety, and stress. When you factor in rental trucks, packing supplies, potential furniture damage, and sheer physical exhaustion, hiring professionals often costs less than a DIY move when you add it all up.