So you've checked out moving companies, decided on one to use, and you're almost all packed and ready to go. A few last preparations can go a long way in making sure your moving day goes smoothly for you and your movers. 

• Donate and downsize. The less stuff you have to move, the less stressed you'll be. Moving is a great opportunity to get rid of unwanted household items and clothes. Consider having a yard sale to make a little extra cash to fund your move, or donate gently-used items to local charities if you don't have time for a sale.
• Check your insurance coverage. Ask your moving company for details on insurance coverage for your valuables. Most of the time, standard coverage only gives you 60 cents per pound per article if your items are lost or damaged during the move. Ask about additional coverage and costs if that doesn't sound like enough for you.
• Prepare your appliances. Disconnect and clean all of your appliances a day or two before your move. Make sure the doors are secure. Defrost your refrigerator and freezer to prevent water damage to your other items.
• Ask about excluded items. Most moving companies have a list of things they won't transport, largely for safety reasons. Ask your company about its restrictions and make other arrangements to transport any prohibited items, such as flammable materials and firearms.
• Label your boxes. Mark the room each box is to go in clearly on the top and the sides so your movers can quickly put each box in the proper room. Include a quick list of contents to help you with unpacking.
• Make a list. Compile a checklist of all of your boxes and loose items so you can do a quick inventory as the movers are putting everything in your new home to make sure nothing is missing.
• Separate boxes with important items. Decide which, if any, boxes you'll transport yourself and keep them separate from the boxes you want the moving company to take. You may want to keep irreplaceable documents and small high-value items, like jewelry, with you.
• Pack a moving-day bag. Prepare a bag of essentials the night before your move with a change of clothes, personal care items, medications, toilet paper and anything else you'll need before you get a chance to unpack.
• Prepare your home. Check all of your drawers, cabinets and closets to make sure everything is removed before your movers arrive. Keep doorways clear and roll up rugs to make it easy for the movers to get out with your belongings.

Don't be afraid to ask a moving company like Doug's Hourly Muscle Movers & Packers Inc ahead of time if there's anything else you should know before moving day. They'll gladly give you a rundown of what to expect and prepare so there won't be any surprises on the big day.