Moving is stressful. Whether you’re moving across town or to another state, mistakes can happen, or you can inadvertently overlook details. Here are six common moving missteps to avoid.
1. Taking on More Than You Can Handle
It’s tempting to try to save money by taking the DIY moving route, but sometimes people take on more than they can handle. As a result, they end up physically hurting themselves, damaging their possessions, or end up paying more to move than they would have if they’d hired professionals. When planning a move, it’s essential to be realistic about what you can reasonably handle. For some DIY works, for others, it’s too big of a challenge.
2. Packing Carelessly or Rushed
Waiting until the last minute to pack usually results in not getting it done in time, possessions getting misplaced or broken, or merely adding unnecessary stress. If you’re not planning to hire professionals for this aspect of the move, start packing ASAP. Do it in stages to ensure the job is done right. This way, each box is filled correctly, taped, and labeled.
3. Forgetting to Pack an Essentials Kit
Forgetting must-have items needed for the first few nights in a new home can result in extra stress and inconvenient errands to the store to pick them up. Packing an essentials kit box can come in handy. This box, which can include toothbrushes, sheets, PJs, coffee, dog food, toilet paper, and any other essentials, makes the first night or two in a new home far more comfortable.
4. Moving Too Much ‘Stuff’
Often, people don’t realize they are packing – and paying to move – belongings they no longer use, need, or even want. They just pack everything in their home or apartment and bring it to put back in storage in their new place. By discarding, donating, giving away, or selling possessions not wanted or needed, you decrease expenses associated with the move and eliminates clutter in your new home.
5. Neglecting to Change Address
Neglecting to notify a change of address with banks, credit cards, doctors, employers, and other essential organizations can result in missed bills or someone else inadvertently getting ahold of sensitive mail, resulting in identity theft. Forgetting to change an address with gyms, magazine and newspaper subscriptions, and other services, you can get billed for services you didn’t use. Start this about four weeks before the move.
6. Not Researching Movers
Sometimes people who do hire movers fail to do their research and can lead to a challenging experience. Before hiring a mover, get a few estimates – a good rule of thumb is to get three. Ask lots of questions, check the Better Business Bureau, verify licenses, and read online reviews. Moving companies are happy to answer any concerns, share information, and offer helpful advice, so don’t be shy in raising questions when talking to them.
Make Your Move a Success
Organization and planning can eliminate – or at least – reduce problems cropping up. Avoiding these six mistakes can help your move be a smooth one. Need help with an upcoming move or just have questions about a future one? Contact us today to learn more about our various moving services.