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Moving to a new home can be a monumental event filled with excitement, anticipation, and sometimes a bit of stress. Whether you’re transitioning to a new city, upgrading to a larger space, or downsizing to a cozier environment, the process of moving requires careful planning and execution to ensure a smooth transition.
Unfortunately, many people fall victim to common moving mistakes that can derail their plans and add unnecessary complications to an already hectic time. From overlooking essential tasks to underestimating the time and resources needed, here’s an in-depth look at the top 10 moving mistakes to avoid.
- Procrastinating the Planning
For many people, it’s easy to fall into the trap of procrastination when it comes to planning a move. With so many details to consider, it can be tempting to put off the process until the last minute, especially when you’re anticipating how much stress and anxiety you’ll be dealing with. However, waiting too long to start planning can lead to a rushed and disorganized move. To avoid this mistake, start planning as soon as possible. Create a detailed timeline outlining key tasks and deadlines, such as researching moving companies, decluttering, and packing.
- Limited Time Spent on Packing
Packing is often one of the most time-consuming aspects of moving, yet many people underestimate how long it will take. To avoid feeling overwhelmed as moving day approaches, allocate plenty of time for packing and start early. Begin by packing items that you don’t use frequently, such as out-of-season clothing, books, and decorative items. As moving day draws nearer, focus on packing essentials and items you use daily. Dedicating a sufficient amount of time to packing may seem like a difficult undertaking, but it will ultimately make your move much smoother.
- Lack of Packing Supplies
Running out of packing supplies midway through packing can bring the entire process to a halt and cause you to lose your rhythm. To prevent this from happening, make sure you have an ample supply of boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and other packing materials before you begin. Consider purchasing more boxes and supplies than you think you’ll need to avoid any last-minute scrambling, and always be sure to prepare with plenty of protective materials.
- Untimely Booking of Movers
Waiting until the last minute to book movers can limit your options and result in higher costs. Additionally, popular moving dates, such as weekends and the end of the month, tend to book up quickly. To ensure you secure the services of a reputable moving company at a reasonable price, book your movers well in advance. Research multiple moving companies, read reviews, and obtain quotes to find the best fit for your needs and budget. This should be one of your first steps so you can avoid scheduling issues and even access better prices.
- Not Assessing Numerous Moving Companies
Choosing the first moving company you come across without doing any research is a common mistake that can lead to subpar service and unnecessary stress. Instead, take the time to research and compare multiple moving companies before making a decision. Look for companies with positive reviews, proper licensing and insurance, and transparent pricing. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations from friends, family, or real estate agents. Remember, not all moving companies are created equally, so take the time and consideration to find a company that will make your move run smoothly.
- Unlabeled Boxes
Failing to label your boxes properly can lead to chaos and frustration during the unpacking process. To streamline the unpacking process and ensure items end up in the right rooms, label each box with its contents and the room it belongs in. Consider using color-coded labels or a numbering system to further organize your boxes. The easier it is to find what you’re looking for within your boxes, the quicker you’ll be able to settle into your new space.
- Disorganized Packing
Packing without a plan can result in a jumbled mess of items that are difficult to unpack and sort through. Instead of throwing items into boxes haphazardly, pack systematically by starting with one room at a time. Declutter as you pack, donating or selling items you no longer need or use. Keep similar items together and pack heavier items at the bottom of boxes to prevent damage. This part of the process can also be made much more effective when you take your time instead of rushing.
- Overpacking (or Underpacking) Your Boxes
Finding the right balance when packing boxes is essential to ensure they are sturdy and easy to transport. Overpacking boxes can make them too heavy and prone to breaking, while underpacking can result in items shifting during transit and getting damaged. Pack boxes with a reasonable weight, filling any empty space with packing material to prevent shifting. This will ensure your items are kept in good condition while they are transported.
- Late Transfer of Utilities
Forgetting to transfer or disconnect utilities at your old address and set them up at your new address can lead to unnecessary stress on moving day. To avoid this mistake, contact your utility providers well in advance to schedule transfers or disconnects. Make sure to coordinate the timing of utility services to ensure a seamless transition.
- Forgetting to Change Your Address
Failing to update your address with important organizations and services can result in missed mail and important documents not reaching you. Before you move, create a list of all the places you need to update your address, including banks, insurance companies, subscription services, and the postal service. Set aside time to update your address online or fill out change-of-address forms at your local post office, as this can prevent any missed communication.
Prepare for a Successful Relocation!
Moving can be a complex and challenging process, but avoiding common mistakes can help streamline the experience and reduce stress. By taking the time to plan ahead, stay organized, and address key tasks promptly, you can ensure a successful and hassle-free move to your new home. With these tips, you can avoid some of the most common moving mistakes and plan a move that truly feels stress-free and streamlined.
Looking for a moving company to rely on throughout your relocation journey? Count on none other than RLD Relocation & Logistics, Ohio’s trusted movers for over 25 years. Since 1998, RLD has provided high-quality moving, packing, and storage services to countless customers in the Akron region and beyond, enabling people to achieve streamlined moving results. Our team of moving professionals is dedicated to delivering excellence through all of our top-rated solutions. Request a quote online or call us today, and discover your easiest moving experience ever!
