How to Prepare Your Home for Movers in Metro Vancouver

Moving companies charge by the hour. A well-prepared home can cut hours off your move — which means a significantly lower bill. Here is exactly what to do before the crew arrives.

Everything Should Be Packed

This is the single most important thing. When the crew arrives, every item that is going on the truck should be in a box, a bag, or wrapped and ready to move. Movers are not packers (unless you have booked packing services) — they move things from A to B.

If you are not fully packed when the crew arrives, they will wait while you pack, and you will be paying for that time.

The night before the move:

• All boxes should be sealed, taped, and labelled
• All drawers should be emptied (or taped shut if the piece is moving with contents)
• All loose items should be in boxes or bags

Disassemble Large Furniture

Beds, large shelving units, and flat-pack furniture should be disassembled before the crew arrives. Keep all hardware (screws, bolts, brackets) in a labelled zip-lock bag taped to the piece.

If you are not sure whether something needs to be disassembled, ask your moving company when you book.

Clear the Pathways

The crew needs clear, unobstructed paths from every room to the front door. Move rugs, remove obstacles, and make sure hallways and doorways are clear.

If you have a narrow hallway or tight corners, think through how large pieces will navigate them. If a piece will not fit through a doorway assembled, it needs to be disassembled.

Protect Your Floors

Lay down floor runners or old towels in high-traffic areas — the hallway, the entrance, and anywhere furniture will be dragged or carried. This protects your floors and makes cleanup easier.

Arrange Parking for the Truck

The moving truck needs to park as close to your entrance as possible. If you are in a house, clear the driveway. If you are in an apartment or condo, confirm parking arrangements with the building manager in advance.

In some Vancouver neighbourhoods, you may need a temporary no-parking permit from the city to reserve street space for the truck. Your moving company can advise on this.

Separate Items That Are NOT Moving

Clearly separate anything that is not going on the truck — items you are donating, items going in your car, items staying behind. Put them in a separate room or mark them clearly. This prevents the crew from accidentally loading something you did not intend to move.

Have Payment Ready

Know how your moving company accepts payment and have it ready. Most companies accept e-transfer, credit card, or cash. Confirm the payment method when you book.

Be Present and Available

Someone needs to be at both addresses on moving day to direct the crew, answer questions, and do a final walkthrough. If you cannot be there, designate a trusted person to be your representative.

Ready to Book?

4 You Moving handles moves across Metro Vancouver 7 days a week. Call 778-200-8825 or get a free quote online.

Get a free moving quote from 4 You Moving — we serve all of Metro Vancouver 7 days a week. View our service areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do the night before movers arrive? Finish all packing, disassemble any furniture you want moved in pieces, clear pathways through the home, and set aside items you are keeping with you. Have your payment method ready and confirm the start time with the company.

Do I need to be home when movers arrive? Yes — someone should be present at both the pickup and delivery addresses to direct the crew, answer questions, and do a final walkthrough. If you cannot be there, designate a trusted person to be on-site.

Should I tip movers in Vancouver? Tipping is not required but is appreciated for good service. A common amount is $20–$40 per mover for a half-day job, or $40–$60 for a full day. Cash is preferred, given directly to each crew member.

How do I protect my floors during a move? Ask your movers if they use floor runners or felt pads — most professional companies do. You can also lay down cardboard or old blankets in high-traffic areas. Protect hardwood floors especially at doorways and hallways.

What should I do with my pets on moving day? Keep pets in a quiet room away from the activity, or arrange for them to stay with a friend or at a boarding facility for the day. Open doors and a busy crew are stressful for animals and create escape risks.

What happens if something is damaged during my move? Document any damage immediately with photos before the crew leaves. Report it to the moving company in writing the same day. Reputable companies carry liability insurance and will work with you to resolve the claim.