When You Get There Before Your Belongings

You and your mover have planned everything carefully. Your belongings are packed in the van, your car is tuned up and a whole new adventure is about to begin. You’re well aware that there will be a gap between when your valuables are scheduled to arrive and when you cross the threshold of your new front door. So how do you make the most of it?   

Use the Time to Get Things Ready 

If you don’t expect the moving van to show up for several hours, it’s the perfect time to get the new space cleaned up. Buy cleaning materials and dust, polish and scrub all surfaces, assemble any furniture and organize any items that may have arrived from places other than the moving van, and check the condition of walls, floors and windows. If you have outdoor space, sweep the patio and sidewalks and make sure your movers have easy access to where they’ll need to go. 

Be sure you stay in touch with your mover and try to get as accurate an ETA as possible, so you’ll be there to supervise once they arrive.  

Take Care of Your Co-movers  

If you have kids, be sure you’ve got some toys and games handy to help them pass the time. You can also channel all that excess energy into a small cleaning or spruce-up project (like papering pantry shelves or dusting built-in bookcases). Teens might be happy exploring their new neighborhood and reporting back what they found. And your partner might go online to find a great restaurant, or takeout place – or even ask a next-door neighbor about services like gardeners or housekeepers.   

Will It Be More Than a Day or Two? 

When you know in advance that your belongings won’t be there right away, here are a few options worth considering: 

If it makes sense to stay in the new space, be sure you bring or items such as inflatable mattresses, bedding, towels, linens and personal care items. Disposable napkins utensils and plates could come in handy, too. A couple of first-night boxes that have essential supplies may be a good idea. 

Another option would be checking into a hotel or motel. This way you’ll avoid the hassle of dealing with things like beds, linens and Wi-Fi connectivity and just relax until the big day. You may prefer to book long-term stay or efficiency style accommodations which would give you the flexibility to make your own meals and additional space to be together as a group.  

If you have family or friends in the area staying with them might be an option. However, it’s important let them know as far in advance as possible – and to give them a definite departure date. If they’re locals, it’s also a chance to find out the go-tos and must-sees in your new city – and take them out for a nice evening to show your appreciation for their hospitality.   

Could You Use a Vacation? 

Before you settle in, it might be a good time to take a break from, well, everything. If work and school schedules allow, consider a road trip to a national park or resort. It will make the move feel more like an adventure and help de-stress everyone with you on the journey. You’ll arrive at your new home refreshed, energized about settling in, and with lots of memories to share.