Moving House With Kids and Pets: Tips for a Calm Shifting Day

Moving to a new home is a big change for children and pets. New rooms, new neighbours and a busy moving day can make them anxious. With some planning, you can keep them safe and calm and help them settle in quickly.

Moving With Children

Talk About the Move Early

• Tell children about the move as soon as it is confirmed, in simple words.
• Show them photos or a video of the new home, the new room and nearby parks.
• Answer their questions honestly — about school, friends and what will change.

Involve Them in Packing

• Let older children pack their own books and toys in a box they decorate.
• Ask younger children to choose a few favourite toys to keep with them on moving day.
• Let them help plan their new room — where the bed and study table will go.

Plan Moving Day

• If possible, ask a relative or friend to look after small children while goods are loaded.
• Keep children away from the loading area, stairs and the moving vehicle.
• Pack a bag with snacks, water, a change of clothes, medicines and something to keep them busy.

Settling In

• Set up children's rooms first, so they have a familiar space on the first night.
• Keep regular meal and sleep times as much as possible.
• Visit the new school and the nearest park together in the first week.

Moving With Pets

Live animals are not moved in the goods vehicle, so plan your pet's journey separately — usually with you in your own car, or with a specialist pet transport service for long distances.

Before the Move

• Visit your vet for a check-up, and carry vaccination records.
• Update your pet's collar tag with your mobile number.
• Get your pet used to a travel crate or carrier a few days before.
• Keep their food, bowls, bedding and toys separate, not in the packed boxes.

On Moving Day

• Keep pets in a quiet, closed room or with a friend while doors are open and goods are carried out.
• Feed them a light meal a few hours before travelling.
• In the car, keep them in a crate or secured, with water and regular breaks on long drives.
• Never leave a pet alone in a parked car.

At the New Home

• Set up one quiet room with their bed, food, water and toys before letting them explore.
• Check the house and balcony for gaps or openings.
• Keep dogs on a leash outdoors until they know the area, and keep cats indoors for the first days.

Let Us Handle the Goods

When the packing, loading and transport are taken care of, you can give your full attention to your family. Century Packers and Movers handles home shifting across the Tricity and to cities across India. Get a free quote or read our household shifting service page.