Moving to a new home sounds exciting, but it can quickly get stressful if you’re not prepared. From packing your valuables to choosing the right movers, every detail matters. The best way to avoid surprises is to ask the right questions before the move. In this blog, we’ll walk you through 21 important questions to know before the move. These cover everything from planning and packing to handling kids, pets, and paperwork. Whether you’re moving within Dubai or to another city, these questions will help you stay organized, save money, and enjoy a smoother relocation.
Planning & Preparation
A smooth move starts with smart planning. From setting a timeline to choosing the right moving company, these steps help you stay organized and stress-free. Learn how to prepare efficiently before the big day.
1. How early should I start planning my move?
It’s best to start planning your move at least 4–6 weeks in advance. This gives you enough time to compare movers, collect packing supplies, and sort through belongings. If you wait until the last week, you’ll feel rushed, forget important details, and may end up paying higher moving costs. A clear timeline helps reduce stress and ensures you’re fully prepared for a moving day.
2. What moving services do I really need?
Not every move requires all services. Some people only need transportation, while others also need packing, unpacking, or storage. Think about your situation—do you have heavy furniture, fragile items, or very little time? If yes, full-service movers will make things easier. If you’re on a budget, you can pack yourself and hire movers only for transport. Choosing services wisely saves both money and time.
3. Should I hire professional movers or do it myself?
Doing it yourself may look cheaper, but it comes with hidden costs like truck rental, fuel, packing supplies, and potential damage. Professional movers bring experience, proper tools, and insurance. If you’re moving a large home, fragile items, or heavy furniture, hiring movers is the safer choice. A DIY move is better only for very small relocations with minimal items.
4. What’s the total cost of moving (hidden fees included)?
Always ask for a detailed estimate. The moving cost usually includes labor, transport, and packing. But extra charges can apply for stairs, long distances, bulky furniture, or last-minute bookings. To avoid surprises, request a written quote and ask about hidden fees. A reliable mover will be transparent and explain all costs upfront.
5. How do I choose the right moving company?
Start by checking if the company is licensed, insured, and experienced. Read reviews, ask for referrals, and compare at least 3 quotes. Don’t just pick the cheapest option—look for professionalism, clear pricing, and good customer service. A trusted mover makes the entire process smooth and stress-free.
6. Is the moving company licensed and insured?
This is one of the most important questions to ask. A licensed and insured mover means your belongings are protected in case of damage or loss. If you skip this step and hire an unlicensed mover, you risk losing money and valuable items. Always check their credentials and ask for proof before booking.
Packing & Organizing
Good packing means less stress and fewer damages. With the right supplies and labeling system, you can unpack easily and save time. Let’s make your packing process simple and efficient.
7. What items should I declutter before packing?
Moving is the best time to declutter. Go through clothes, books, kitchen items, and furniture you no longer use. If something hasn’t been touched in a year, donate or sell it. Decluttering reduces packing time, lowers moving costs, and keeps your new home clutter-free.
8. How do I safely pack fragile items?
Fragile items like glassware, dishes, and electronics need extra care. Use bubble wrap, packing paper, and sturdy boxes. Always label boxes as “Fragile” so movers handle them carefully. Pack heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones on top. If possible, let professionals pack delicate items for maximum safety.
9. Should I buy packing supplies or use free/used boxes?
Free boxes may save money, but they can be weak and unsafe for heavy or valuable items. Buying quality boxes, bubble wrap, and packing tape ensures better protection. A good mix works well—use strong new boxes for fragile or heavy items and recycled boxes for lighter things like clothes.
10. How do I label boxes for easy unpacking?
Labeling is key for an organized move. Write the room name (e.g., Kitchen, Bedroom), contents, and mark fragile boxes clearly. Use color-coded labels or stickers to make it even easier. This way, movers place boxes in the right rooms, and you won’t waste time searching later.
11. What should go in my “essentials box” for the first day?
An essentials box is a lifesaver. Pack things you’ll need right after moving— toiletries, a change of clothes, basic kitchen items, chargers, important documents, and snacks. Having these on hand saves you from digging through dozens of boxes on your first night in the new home.
12. How do I move valuable or sentimental items safely?
Jewelry, documents, cash, and sentimental items should always travel with you, not in the moving truck. Use a small secure bag or lockbox. For very expensive items, ask the moving company if they offer special handling or insurance. Keeping valuables with you gives peace of mind.
Heavy & Large Items
Moving bulky furniture or appliances can be tricky without a plan. Discover safe and easy ways to handle heavy items and protect your floors, walls, and valuables during the move.
13. What’s the best way to move large furniture or appliances?
Large items like sofas, beds, refrigerators, and washing machines need planning and tools. Disassemble furniture when possible, remove refrigerator shelves, and secure appliance doors with tape. Use moving blankets, straps, and dollies to avoid injuries and damage. If the items are too heavy, it’s best to let professional movers handle them—they have the equipment and skills to move bulky items safely.
14. How do I protect my floors and walls while moving?
Dragging furniture or dropping boxes can damage floors and walls. To prevent this, use floor runners, cardboard sheets, or blankets on the floor. For walls, apply corner guards or foam padding in narrow hallways. Always lift carefully instead of sliding heavy items. Professional movers usually bring protective materials, so ask in advance if this service is included.
Movers & Policies
Before booking movers, it’s important to know their rules, timelines, and service details. These questions help you understand policies, avoid hidden fees, and ensure a smooth relocation.
15. What’s the moving company’s cancellation or refund policy?
Plans can change, so it’s important to know the mover’s cancellation and refund rules. Some companies allow free cancellations if you inform them a few days in advance, while others may charge a fee. Always ask for the policy in writing before booking. This saves you from unexpected costs if your moving date changes.
16. How long will the move take?
The time depends on the size of your home, number of movers, distance, and amount of furniture. A small apartment move may take a few hours, while a villa could take an entire day or more. Ask movers for an estimated timeline so you can plan your schedule better.
17. Do movers help with packing and unpacking?
Not all movers offer packing and unpacking services—it depends on the package you choose. Full-service movers can handle everything from wrapping dishes to setting up furniture in your new home. If you prefer to save money, you can do the packing yourself and hire movers only for transport. Always confirm what’s included in your chosen package.
Documents & Updates
Don’t forget the paperwork! Keeping your documents and address updates organized prevents delays and confusion. Here’s what to handle before and during your move.
18. How do I update my address and utilities before moving?
Before you move, make a checklist of all the places where your address needs to be updated. This includes bank accounts, utility companies, internet providers, insurance, and subscriptions. Notify them at least a week in advance to avoid service interruptions. Arrange for utilities like electricity, water, and internet to be active in your new home on moving day, so you settle in smoothly.
19. What documents should I keep handy on moving day?
Keep important documents in a secure folder and carry them with you—not in the moving truck. These may include ID cards, passports, rental or purchase agreements, medical records, insurance papers, and school documents. Having these close by avoids stress in case you need them urgently or something gets misplaced during the move.
Family & Pets
Moving with kids or pets? A little preparation can make the transition easier for everyone. Learn how to keep your family calm and happy during the moving process.
20. How do I handle moving with kids or pets?
Moving can feel overwhelming for kids and pets because it disrupts their routine. For children, explain the move in simple words and involve them in small tasks like packing toys or labeling boxes. This makes them feel included and less anxious. For pets, prepare a pet travel kit with food, water, and comfort items. Keep them in a quiet room on moving day or arrange for a pet sitter so they stay calm and safe. Planning ahead ensures a smoother move for the whole family.
After the Move
Your move isn’t complete until everything is settled in your new home. These final steps help you unpack smartly, check essentials, and start fresh without stress.
21. What should I do immediately after reaching the new home?
The first step after arriving is to check your belongings and make sure everything is delivered safely. Next, unpack your essentials box so you have clothes, toiletries, and basic kitchen items ready. Then, set up beds so your family can rest after the long day. Once you’re settled, test utilities like electricity, water, and internet. Take a quick walk through the house to ensure doors, windows, and locks are secure. Finally, start unpacking room by room instead of rushing everything at once. A calm, organized approach helps you adjust to your new home stress-free.
Move Smart with SuperMovers
Moving doesn’t have to be stressful when you prepare the right way. By asking these 21 questions before your move, you’ll know what to expect, how to stay organized, and how to avoid last-minute surprises. From choosing a licensed mover to packing your essentials, every step makes the journey easier. If you want a stress-free moving experience in Dubai, SuperMovers is here to help. Our professional team takes care of everything so you can relax and look forward to your new home.
