
How to Prepare Your Items Before the Man and Van Team Arrives
Hiring a Man and Van service is one of the most convenient and affordable ways to move your belongings — whether you’re relocating your flat, office, or student accommodation. But to ensure the move goes smoothly and efficiently, a bit of preparation before the team arrives can make all the difference.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get ready for your moving day like a pro.
Declutter Before You Pack
Before the Man and Van team shows up, go through your items and decide what you really need.
- Donate or sell unwanted clothes, furniture, or gadgets.
- Recycle or discard broken or unused items.
This not only saves you time but also reduces the moving cost since fewer items mean fewer trips.
Check out the Full Article on How to Organise Packing Room by Room
Organize and Label Everything
Sorting your belongings by room or category will make unloading and unpacking much easier.
- Use colour-coded labels (e.g., red for kitchen, blue for bedroom).
- Mark fragile items clearly.
- Create an inventory list so nothing goes missing during transport.
| Label Colour | Room/Category | Example Items |
| Red | Kitchen | Plates, cutlery, pans |
| Blue | Bedroom | Clothes, lamps |
| Green | Bathroom | Towels, toiletries |
| Yellow | Living Room | Books, cushions, decor |
Check out the Article on How to Label Boxes for an Easy Unpacking Process
Pack Smartly and Safely
Proper packing prevents damage during transport:
- Use sturdy boxes and avoid overloading them.
- Wrap fragile items in bubble wrap or soft cloths.
- Disassemble furniture (like beds or tables) if possible.
- Keep screws and bolts in labelled zip bags.
Tip: Keep essential items (like chargers, toiletries, or snacks) in a separate “Essentials Box” to open first at your new place.
Secure Access and Parking
To avoid delays, make sure the Man and Van team can easily access your home:
- Reserve a parking spot close to your entrance.
- Clear pathways of obstacles and clutter.
- Notify neighbours or building management if required.
If you live in London, check for local parking permits or loading restrictions to prevent fines on moving day.
Communicate Clearly with the Moving Team
Share key details with your movers before they arrive:
- Number of boxes and bulky items.
- Special instructions for fragile or heavy goods.
- Time and address confirmations.
Good communication helps them plan the van space and ensures a smoother process.
Prepare Appliances and Electronics
Unplug, defrost, and clean all appliances the night before:
- Pack cords and cables neatly in labelled bags.
- Defrost fridges/freezers and wipe dry.
- Remove batteries from remotes.
Check out the article on How to Pack Fragile Items Safely for Transport
Protect Floors and Walls
If you’re renting, protect the property from damage:
- Take photos of the property condition before the move (for deposit safety).
- Use floor protectors or blankets.
- Cover door frames when moving large furniture.
Stay Ready and Available
On the day of the move:
- Double-check all rooms, cupboards, and shelves before leaving.
- Keep your phone handy for coordination.
- Be present to guide the movers and answer questions.
Final Thoughts
A bit of organization and preparation can make your Man and Van move quick, efficient, and stress-free. By following these tips, you’ll help your moving team do their job smoothly while keeping your belongings safe.
If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable Man and Van service in London, Brilliant Removals offers professional help with packing, loading, and transport — tailored for all move sizes.











