When you’re uprooting your life to a new home, the last thing you need is added stress. Over the past 80 years as experts in the moving industry, we’ve seen countless individuals make the same easily avoidable errors. Let’s dive into the top six mistakes people make when relocating and how you can sidestep these pitfalls.
1. Ditching Professional Help: The Overconfidence Trap
A common way people try to cut down on moving expenses is by taking the DIY route. However, this approach often leads to complications. There was once a group of students who had trapped their sofa in a staircase! While they were fortunate to avoid injury, moving bulky furniture alone can be risky. If you’re uncertain about handling certain moving tasks, it’s worth investing in expert assistance.
2. Inefficient Packing: Choosing the Wrong Methods
Self-packing can be cost-effective, but it’s crucial to do it right. A prevalent error is overloading boxes. Remember, if it’s too heavy for you, it’ll be challenging for your movers. Distribute weighty items like books across smaller containers for easy lifting. And always invest in durable boxes, especially for delicate goods like lampshades.
3. Unclear Labels: The Importance of Detailed Marking
Clearly marking your boxes isn’t just about indicating which ones contain fragile items. Proper labeling can prevent serious mix-ups, like the story where a person who was preparing to move accidentally packed away a small turtle! Detailed labels will ensure everything finds its right place in your new home without mishaps.
4. Miscalculating the Task: Underestimating Your Move
It’s easy to misjudge the scale of a move. What seems like a quick task to you could be far more complex. Often people can miscalculate the size of their belongings and the space they will need to move them accordingly, leading to budgeting errors. To get a realistic cost and time estimate, consider an on-site consultation, which many companies, including ours, offer for free.
5. Playing Risky with Valuables: Overlooking Insurance Needs
The misconception is widespread: all moving companies will compensate for damages. While there’s some truth to it, it’s nuanced. It’s essential to evaluate the worth of your belongings. If you possess valuable antiques or artworks, insurance is a wise choice. On the contrary, basic furniture might not warrant additional coverage.
6. Procrastinating: The Peril of Not Booking Ahead
Moving companies, especially reputed ones, can get booked out quickly, particularly during high-demand periods. Don’t find yourself stranded. As soon as you’ve settled on a moving date, secure your movers to ensure availability.
In conclusion, a successful move requires foresight and planning. By being aware of these common mistakes and actively working to prevent them, you set yourself up for a smoother, hassle-free move.
