Moving day has arrived! Whether you’re relocating, downsizing, or transitioning to a retirement community, moving can be a big — and often emotional — undertaking. For older adults, the process is about much more than boxes; it’s about memories, comfort, and confidence in your next chapter.
That’s where senior move management comes in. At The Move Makers, we support seniors and their families every step of the way. On moving day, our guidance can turn stress into success.
Here are our Top Tips for Moving Day:
1. Keep Everyone in the Loop
From coordinating movers to communicating with family, we act as the central point of contact. No crossed wires or forgotten instructions — just a well-oiled plan that everyone understands.
2. Label with Love (and Logic)
Senior move managers are champions of detailed labeling. We don’t just write “Bedroom”; we write “Primary Bedroom – Nightstand Items – Open First.” That way, you’re not digging through twelve boxes looking for your lamp or favorite book to read that first night.
3. Pack a “Day-Of” Essentials Box
Whether we help you pack it or remind you to do it, we always recommend a clearly labeled “essentials” box or tote. It should include your medications, toothbrush, a change of clothes, important documents, and a few comfort items. We’ll make sure it travels with you — not in the moving truck.
4. Keep Important Papers with You
We help you organize and safeguard key documents — ID, health information, insurance, moving contracts — before the movers even arrive. No last-minute scrambles or “which box is that folder in?”
5. Use a Floor Plan to Direct the Flow
Our move managers work with you ahead of time to design a custom floor plan for your new home. On moving day, we bring it with us and direct the movers accordingly. That means your favorite chair is put exactly where you want it, the first time.
6. Make a Plan for Pets
We’ll remind you to create safe spaces for pets. (Best bet: head for a pet sitter.) Resident cats and dogs will thank you for keeping them away from all the noise, and won’t be tempted to explore the neighborhood should a door be inadvertently left open.
7. Take Breaks – Guilt-Free
Having The Move Makers as your move coordinators, you can take breaks or head out on last minute errands with complete peace of mind. Throughout the process, our team makes sure your well-being stays front and center.
8. Celebrate the Milestone
Moving is a big transition — and a big accomplishment. We don’t just unpack boxes; we help you settle in. Whether it’s drawing up plans for setting up your TV, hanging a few familiar pictures, or making sure your coffee pot is plugged in and ready for the next morning, we help you feel at home… fast.
Let’s Make Moving Day a Good Day
At The Move Makers, we believe moving doesn’t have to be chaotic or overwhelming. With the right plan — and the right people by your side — moving day can be made infinitely more manageable. As one recent client said, “You did in three days what would have taken us a month.”
Ready to take the stress out of moving ? Contact us today and let’s move forward — together.
Michael Gettel-Gilmartin is an organizer for The Move Makers and a writer and blogger. He was educated in an English boarding school (no, not Hogwarts!) and has lived in eight countries. He’s been paid money for the following: teaching ESL, carrying suitcases as a hotel porter, cleaning carpets, being the refined English telephone voice behind a friend’s attempt to be a literary agent, editing a Japanese dictionary, being an in-home caregiver, and singing at weddings
The Move Makers are an experienced and dedicated team of professionals offering a comprehensive solution to the often overwhelming task of moving for busy families, executives and seniors in Portland, Oregon and the surrounding communities. We have earned an A+ Accreditation from the National Association of Senior and Specialty Move Managers