Often times, our best learning experiences come through our mistakes. When it comes to moving, there are certain errors, like forgetting to clean out the refrigerator, for example, that won’t cost you much time or set you back too far. However, certain other mistakes can really derail your entire move and cost you time, money, and even your health, in some cases. Learn from our most common errors so you don’t have to find out the hard way!
1. – Thinking You Can Pack Up Last Minute
Even if you are one of those people that perform better with the threat of a deadline approaching, packing should not be one of those things that you wait until the last minute to start. Packing is one of those things that always seems to take more time than you budgeted for and waiting until the last minute can take away time to move safely and clean, putting your security deposit at risk! Also, the more you rush your packing process, the more likely you are to cut corners that will put your possessions in harm’s way.
2. – Thinking You Can Use Any Box
Another common moving error is to think that it’s alright to use any boxes that you have lying around your house. Although, that can be okay for certain things, your best bet is to make the small investment of buying new moving boxes to pack your stuff in. Even if you are just moving down the street, having fresh boxes will ensure that your things make it to your new home in their best possible condition. Frequently, old boxes have old labels too, which can be confusing when you are trying to unpack. Not only can new boxes protect your things, but they also can save you time when it’s time to unpack!
3. – The Moving Truck Doesn’t Matter
While it might be a great resource to have a friend or family member who can let you use their truck or SUV for your move, most of the time, that is not adequate for the job of moving. Don’t cut that corner and instead make sure that you rent a moving truck that can handle the job. Also, when picking out the right truck to rent, make sure that you reference the size chart to get the truck that is perfect for your move. Most moving companies have the sizes of their trucks and the amount of bedrooms that one truck can hold as a reference point to make sure you have enough room to fit all of your things.
4. – My Friends Will Definitely Help Me Move
No matter how great your friend group is, moving is one of those unpleasant tasks that you don’t want to take for granted that your friends, and even family, will help you with. If you are planning on having your circle help you with your next move, make sure that you have it planned out and scheduled well in advance. Also, make sure that you are properly packed and have the right equipment ready for the job. Few things are more annoying than agreeing to help someone move and coming into a house that is not ready to be moved.
5. – I Can Move Better Than The Professionals
Finally, one of the worst pitfalls of any move is thinking that you can move better than the professionals long distance movers. Often times, hiring help is cheaper than you think. Even if, and sometimes, especially if you are getting some help with relocation expenses, it can be tempting to go it alone and save money. Get an estimate and see how much hassle you can save by having professionals move you and your things. Not only will this ensure your belongings make it safely, but it will also protect you from potential injury. Even if you go to the gym regularly, moving can often be awkward and put you in harms way, so leave it to the pros!