What to Expect on Packing Day for Your Shipment to Israel

Packing day is one of the most important parts of the aliyah shipping process. A well-prepared home can help the packing crew work more efficiently, reduce confusion, and help prevent mistakes. While professional crews are trained to provide excellent service, a little preparation and communication can make the day go much more smoothly for everyone involved.

Before the crew arrives, it’s very helpful to have the home reasonably tidy and organized. Packing crews are there to professionally pack and protect your shipment — not clean or sort through household clutter at the same time.

Helpful Ways to Prepare for Packing Day

• Organize or corral similar items together ahead of time:
  • Books with books
  • Clothing with clothing
  • Kitchenware together
  • Toys, office supplies, or electronics grouped separately
• Clearly identify what is being shipped and what is staying behind.
• Use sticky notes or labels such as:
  • “SHIP”
  • “DO NOT PACK”
  • “STAYS”
• If possible, place items being shipped in designated rooms or areas.

These small steps can help the packing crew work more efficiently and reduce the possibility of confusion.

Even with experienced crews, occasional mistakes can happen during any move. Sometimes, an item not intended for shipment gets packed, or something meant to go may accidentally be left behind. Clear labeling and communication can greatly reduce these situations.

The Initial Walkthrough

At the beginning of packing day, you will usually do a walkthrough with the crew chief. This is an important opportunity to:

• Explain what is being shipped
• Identify items not being shipped
• Point out fragile or sentimental items
• Discuss special packing instructions
• Clarify storage areas, closets, garages, or outdoor items

During the day, it’s also wise to frequently check in with the crew. International moves can involve hundreds or even thousands of individual items, and regular communication helps ensure everyone stays on the same page.

The Final Walkthrough Is Crucial

Before the crew leaves, it’s extremely important to do a careful final walkthrough of the home. Check:

• Closets
• Cabinets
• Drawers
• Storage rooms
• Garage areas
• Outdoor spaces
• Shelves and attics

This final inspection helps confirm that everything intended for shipment has actually been packed and loaded.

If the crew has already left and later needs to return for forgotten items, there will likely be an additional charge for the extra service.

Our packing crews work hard to provide careful and efficient service. International moving is physically demanding work, and many clients choose to show appreciation with a gratuity. While tips are never required or expected, they are always appreciated. A common guideline is approximately $5–$10 per person, per hour, depending on the complexity of the move and the level of service provided.

Good preparation, clear communication, and a careful final walkthrough can help make packing day smoother, less stressful, and more successful for everyone involved.