10 Ways to Speed Up Your Move (And Save Time & Money)

Moving doesn’t have to be slow, stressful, or all-day chaos. In fact, the biggest factor in how long a move takes usually isn’t the size of the home—it’s how prepared everything is before the movers arrive.

At Pleasant Moving, we’ve helped hundreds of customers across the Twin Cities, and we’ve seen exactly what makes a move go quickly (and what slows it down).

If you want a faster, smoother, and more cost-effective move, follow these 10 checkpoints:

1. Be Fully Packed Before Movers Arrive

This is the biggest one.

If packing is still happening when movers show up, everything slows down. Make sure all items are boxed, sealed, and ready to go ahead of time unless you’ve scheduled packing services.

 2. Box Everything That Can Be Boxed

Loose items create extra trips and wasted time.

If it can fit in a box, put it in one. This allows movers to stack and carry more efficiently, reducing the number of trips to the truck.

 3. Label Boxes Clearly by Room

Clear labels = faster unloading.

When boxes are labeled by room, movers can place them exactly where they belong in your new home without asking questions or backtracking.

 4. Stage Items Near the Exit

One of the easiest ways to save time.

Move boxes and small items to the garage, entryway, or near the front door. Shorter walking distance = faster loading.

 5. Prepare Furniture Ahead of Time

Take care of the small details in advance.

Remove fragile items, empty drawers if needed, and disassemble simple items like bed frames. This helps movers get straight to work.

6. Use What You Already Have for Packing

Suitcases, laundry baskets, storage bins, and bags can all be used to pack items.

This reduces the number of loose items and saves time organizing everything.

 7. Clear Parking and Walkways

The closer the truck can get, the faster your move will be.

Make sure:

• Driveways are clear

• Parking spots are reserved if needed

• Walkways are free of obstacles

  
  

 8. Declutter Before Moving Day

The less you move, the faster it goes.

Go room by room and separate items into:

• Keep

• Donate

• Sell

• Throw away

Start with storage areas like basements and garages to make the biggest impact quickly.

 9. Disconnect and Prep Appliances Early

Don’t wait until moving day.

Make sure:

• TVs are taken off walls

• Appliances are unplugged and ready

• Cords are labeled and organized

This avoids delays once the move starts.

 10. Set Aside Essentials and Stay Organized

Keep important items with you:

• Documents

• Medications

• Chargers

• Daily essentials

Also, having a general plan for what goes where helps movers work faster without constant direction.

 Final Thoughts

A fast move isn’t about rushing—it’s about preparation.

When everything is packed, organized, and ready to go, your movers can focus on what they do best: getting your belongings from point A to point B safely and efficiently.

At Pleasant Moving, our goal is always to make your move as smooth and stress-free as possible. A little preparation on your end goes a long way toward saving time, reducing costs, and keeping everything on track.

If you have questions or want help planning your move, feel free to reach out—we’re always happy to help.