Why Moving is Harder for Kids & Pets
For adults, moving is a logistical challenge involving [Moving Estimates] and trucks. For children and pets, it is a disruption of their entire universe. They don't understand "equity" or "better job markets"; they only know that their safe space is disappearing.
The secret to a successful family move is managing the routine. The more familiar you can keep things—meal times, walks, favorite toys—the less anxiety your family will feel. EZ MoveIt understands that we aren't just moving furniture; we are transporting your family's life.
Part 1: Moving with Children (Age-by-Age Guide)
Timing is everything. Telling them too early can cause months of anxiety, while telling them too late feels like a betrayal.
Toddlers & Preschoolers (Ages 2-5)
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When to tell: 1 month before. They have little concept of time.
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What to say: Keep it simple. "We are moving to a new house where you will have a big room for your trucks."
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Strategy: Use play. Buy a toy moving truck and "practice" moving dolls or blocks into a shoebox.
School-Age Kids (Ages 6-12)
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When to tell: As soon as the decision is made. They need time to process saying goodbye to friends.
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The Focus: Focus on the gains, not the losses. "The new house has a pool" or "We will be closer to Grandma."
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Involvement: Let them pack their own "Treasure Box" with their most prized possessions. This gives them a sense of control.
Teenagers (Ages 13+)
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The Challenge: This group struggles the most because their life revolves around their social circle.
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Strategy: Listen more than you talk. Don't dismiss their anger. Validate it.
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Control: Give them veto power over something small, like the paint color of their new room or the furniture layout.
Part 2: Moving with Pets (Interstate Travel Tips)
Animals are incredibly sensitive to stress. The sight of moving boxes can trigger anxiety weeks before the move.
How to Move with Cats
Cats are territorial; a move is their worst nightmare.
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The Carrier: Bring the travel carrier out 3 weeks early. Put treats and a soft blanket inside so it becomes a "safe place," not a "scary vet place."
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The Behavior: Expect them to hide. Check closets, drawers, and behind appliances before you seal boxes to ensure a cat isn't napping inside!
How to Move with Dogs
Dogs pick up on your stress. When doors are open, anxious dogs often try to bolt.
The Runners: Keep them on a leash or in a crate on moving day.
Microchips are Mandatory: Before an [Interstate Move], ensure your dog's microchip is registered with your cell phone number, not the old landline.
Vet Check: If you are moving across state lines, you may need a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI). Check the laws of your destination state.
The "Safe Room" Strategy (Crucial for Moving Day)
Moving day is dangerous. Heavy boots, open doors, and 50-pound boxes are a bad mix for small creatures.
1. The "Do Not Open" Door
Designate one room (like a master bathroom or empty bedroom) as the Family Safe Zone.
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Place the pets inside with water, food, and litter.
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Set up a tablet with cartoons for the kids.
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Tape a sign on the door: "PETS INSIDE - DO NOT OPEN."
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This prevents escapes and keeps everyone out of the movers' way.
2. The "Open First" Essentials Box
Do not put these items in the moving truck! Keep them in your personal vehicle.
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Kids: Diapers, wipes, pyjamas, 2-3 favorite toys, tablets/chargers, and snacks.
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Pets: Leash, collar with ID, food for 3 days, collapsible bowls, and waste bags.
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Meds: Any prescription medications for family or pets.
Surviving the Long-Distance Drive
If you are driving long-distance to your new home:
Plan "Energy Stops": Research parks along your route where kids and dogs can burn off energy every 3-4 hours.
Pet Hotels: Not all hotels are pet-friendly. Book chains known for welcoming pets (like La Quinta or Red Roof Inn) in advance.
Car Sickness: Avoid feeding pets a heavy meal right before the drive.
The First 24 Hours in the New Home
You’ve arrived. The truck is unloaded. Now what?
Baby-Proofing (Immediate Priority)
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Before you unpack the kitchen, do a safety sweep:
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Cover electrical outlets.
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Check for loose window cords (strangulation hazard).
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Ensure heavy furniture (bookshelves, dressers) is anchored to the wall immediately to prevent tipping.
Re-establishing Routine
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Kids: Set up their bed sheets first. Sleeping with their familiar pillowcase and blanket makes the new scary room feel like home.
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Pets: Keep cats in one room for the first 2-3 days. Let them "map" the house slowly. Releasing a cat into a huge new house immediately can cause them to hide for days.
How EZ MoveIt Protects Your Family
We know that safety is your #1 priority. Here is how we ensure a family-friendly move:
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Background Checked Crews: Every mover is screened. You can feel safe having our team around your children.
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Chemical Safety: We do not pack hazardous materials (like bleach or pesticides) with your children's toys.
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Priority Unloading: We label "Kids' Room" boxes clearly so we can unload and assemble their beds first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I hire a babysitter for moving day?
Yes. If possible, have young children stay with a relative or hire a sitter. It is safer for them and allows you to focus on directing the movers.
How do I move a fish tank?
Fish are delicate. Drain most water, keep the filter media wet (to save beneficial bacteria), and transport fish in bags or a cooler. Do not leave them in the tank on the moving truck; the vibration will break the glass.
My dog gets car sick/anxious. What can I do?
Consult your vet 2 weeks before the move. They can prescribe mild anti-anxiety medication or recommend calming pheromone sprays for the car ride.
Let Us Handle the Heavy Lifting
You focus on hugging your kids and walking the dog. We’ll handle the stress, the boxes, and the driving.