Let’s face it: Moving is complicated. With so many items on the to-do list and multiple deadlines, juggling all those “moving” parts can feel too much to manage. That’s when tasks slip through the cracks, leading to moving challenges.
Why not learn from the successes — and the mistakes — of those who’ve gone before? Read on to learn the top moving pitfalls and how to avoid them.
1. Lack of Organization
At the start of the moving process, create an organizing system to keep everything you need for the move in one place. When you write down everything you need to do, it’s easier to track it.
This may be a physical binder or folder where you keep quotes, receipts, and invoices. On the other hand, maybe you prefer to keep important documents on your computer, or perhaps a combination of physical and digital resources works best.
No matter which method you prefer, making a move timeline and checklist at the start of the move are key.
2. Not Taking Time to Declutter
When planning a move, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the amount of stuff. That’s why moving pros suggest starting by decluttering. After all, there’s no reason to pay to move items you don’t want or use.
Set aside time to go through your home methodically a few months before moving day.
Working room by room, categorize your belongings into four groups: Keep, Donate, Sell and Recycle/Trash. Though it involves a time commitment up front, you’ll thank yourself come moving day.
3. Haphazard Packing
It may seem easier to simply throw items into boxes until they’re full, then tape them closed and hope for the best. But though it may save time at the start of the move, a haphazard approach to packing presents pitfalls.
You’ll waste time figuring out where everything is after the move, just when you’re likely to feel worn out and ready to be done.
Take the time to pack correctly, put like items together, and organize box contents by room. Clearly label the contents of each box and the room it’ll go in your new home.
Keep an eye on box weight; too-heavy and overfilled boxes are more likely to break open, damaging the contents.
4. Forgetting to Cancel and Start Utilities
There’s nothing worse than arriving at your new home, ready to unpack and settle in, only to find that your utilities haven’t been turned on yet — and you can’t even turn the lights on.
It’s also not fun to receive a bill for utilities you forgot to turn off after moving out of your old house.
Several weeks before moving day, contact your current utility companies — power, gas, water, sewer, trash, cable, phone, and internet provider — and schedule for cancelation or transfer. Then do the same to set up the utilities at your new address.
5. Waiting Too Long to Secure Movers
Many reputable moving companies often book up well in advance. You want to work with movers you can trust.
Start getting quotes a few months before moving day. Don’t wait too long to secure your moving company.
Moving Done Right
Whether you need help with a local or a long-haul move, full-service movers, or help with heavy lifting, we can assist with your relocation. Contact us today for a free quote.