How to Prepare for Moving Day: Key Tips to Ensure a Hassle-Free Move

What should I do with clothes in drawers when moving?

You can leave lightweight items like clothes, soft linens, and bedding inside drawers—just make sure they’re not overpacked. Keep drawers securely closed and avoid heavy or bulky items that may strain the furniture.

This simple step reduces packing waste and saves time on both ends of the move.

Do I need to disconnect appliances before the movers arrive?

Yes. Especially your washing machine.

Unplug and drain hoses, turn off the water supply, and let any remaining water drain. Secure hoses and any loose parts to avoid leaks or damage in transit.

This keeps your appliances safe and ready for setup at your new place.

How should I seal moving boxes to keep them secure?

Always tape the bottom of boxes—not just folding the flaps in.
Use strong packing tape and reinforce seams with at least two strips. For heavy items, consider taping in a criss-cross or “X” pattern for extra support.

Need help? Our professional packing team knows exactly how to box for stability and speed.

Should I empty my fridge before moving?

Definitely.

Clear out all food, remove shelves if needed, and clean it down. This prevents spills, bad smells, or mold forming during transit—especially if you’re moving long-distance or storing the fridge for a while.

What should I do with items that aren’t moving with me?

Now’s the time to sort, sell, donate, or dump.

Separate anything not making the move and take care of it ahead of time. The less you move, the faster (and cheaper) the job will be.

Decluttering also means your new home starts off clean and clutter-free.

How do I label boxes for a smoother move?

Use bold labels on all sides of the box.

Include the room it belongs in, plus any instructions like Fragile or This Side Up.
The clearer the labels, the easier the unloading—and the faster you settle in.

Top tip: Use colour-coded tape or stickers to match rooms.

What should go in an essentials box?

Think of it as your first-night kit.

Include:

• A change of clothes
• Toiletries and medications
• Phone chargers
• Basic kitchen gear (kettle, cups, snacks)
• Important documents
• Kids’ or pets’ comfort items if needed

Label it clearly and keep it with you—not in the truck.

How do I protect fragile or valuable items?

Wrap them carefully using packing paper or bubble wrap.
Add padding inside boxes, and clearly mark them as Fragile.
Better yet, let our team take care of it—we offer tailored packing options for high-value, one-off, or full-house needs.

Whether it’s glassware, heirlooms, or art—our team treats every item like it’s priceless.

Can I move just one item or book a smaller move?

Yes—we offer flexible options.
Whether it’s a man and van, single item, or a few bulky pieces, we can help. Our capacity ranges from one item to full house relocations across Queenstown, Cromwell, Wanaka and beyond.

If it fits in a truck, we can move it.

What if I need help packing or unpacking?

We’ve got that covered too.

From partial packing (just the kitchen or delicate items) to full-house service, our professional team can really help lighten the load.

Want to save time and get it done right? Just ask us.

How do I move house plants safely?

Plants need a little attention and careful handling:

• Do not water them right before the move—it makes them heavier and more prone to tipping. We’ll water them once they arrive safely.
• For smaller plants, group them upright in a tray or box with padding to reduce movement
• Larger plants can be moved as they are—no boxes needed. We’ll secure them safely in the truck.
• For long-distance moves or storage, consider gifting them to a friend or transporting them separately.

Can BRS help with storing my stuff?

Yes, we can. Whether you’re between homes or need longer-term storage, we offer secure storage solutions tailored to your needs. From a few items to a full household, we keep your belongings safe and easy to access when you’re ready.