Preparing Your Property Before Moving Day: Exterior Improvements That Matter

When preparing for a move, much more care is given to packing the interior of the home than to the condition of the exterior. This is not an ideal approach. The pathways and other outdoor spaces around your home can affect the efficiency of the move. If given some attention before the move, the outdoor spaces can save your property as well as the items being relocated.

Start with safe access to the property

The crew moving the items will carry heavy boxes and furniture to the moving vehicle, then back to the house, many times. The landscaping and walkways can become an obstacle and even facilitate the damaging of the items being relocated.

There is no need for major renovations to simplify accessibility. Trimming hanging branches and removing garden tools and any obstacles blocking pathways and doors will help significantly. If a move is scheduled and rain is expected, removing debris and leaves from the walkways will help reduce the opportunity for a slip and fall.

When the home has limited parking or long drives, moves will necessitate the parking of a truck. Knowing where parking will occur will help streamline the moving process.

Exterior features that deserve attention

You can also protect walls and stair railings with temporary covers to reduce accidental marks during the move. Remove outdoor obstacles, trim overgrown plants along access paths, and ensure driveways remain clear for moving vehicles. Check exterior lighting if the move extends into the evening, and inspect gates, fences, and steps for any hazards that could slow down the relocation process:

• Remove decorative planters or outdoor furniture near entrances.
• Protect wooden floors inside entryways with temporary coverings.
• Trim shrubs that narrow walkways.
• Check that outdoor lighting works properly for early morning or evening moves.
• Secure gates so they remain fully open while furniture is being carried.
• Reserve enough parking space for the moving vehicle if local regulations require it.

These preparations reduce interruptions and help the relocation proceed more efficiently.

Different properties require different moving strategies

Older homes may include narrow hallways, steep staircases, or low ceilings that require extra care when transporting large furniture. Measuring doorways, lifts, and corridors in advance helps prevent delays, while identifying tight corners and difficult access points allows movers to plan the safest and most efficient route.

If you are a homeowner looking to move within Greater Boston and you want to avoid the challenges of restricted furniture access, you might consider moving companies in Cambridge MA. Familiarity with some of the more hectic residential areas of Boston can actually save you time during the move.

Protecting your landscaping during a move

Take a note and consider the time and effort of landscaping when developing a plan for moving out. The bed and lawn are especially vulnerable to damage from careless moving equipment and personnel.

Sheeting out a path with plywood can temporarily help protect landscaping. Before actually moving, you can detangle garden hoses, extension cords, and decorations. It both clears needed space and protects landscaping.

Moreover, you should check for damage after the moving truck has left. Property such as fences and paths should go undamaged and landscaping should look well cared for when moving is completed.

Planning to move thoughtfully is also an effort to care for and maintain property. Ensuring property is cared for can also help the moving process run more smoothly.