The real estate market is starting to heat up for the spring season. That means in the coming months many people will be packing up and moving to a new place. If you’re one of them, then you’ll be gearing up over the coming weeks for your big move. Moving is one of life’s most stressful events. And unfortunately, mistakes are common. Here’s what you need to know to avoid some of the worst moving mistakes so that your relocation is as stress-free as possible.
Not being organized
If you’re moving, then you are literally taking everything you own and transferring it to a new location. That’s a big job. It’s easy to get overwhelmed and lose sight of the bigger picture. When you’re preparing to move, it is essential that you create a plan. Use a moving checklist that breaks down tasks and keeps you moving towards your goal.
Moving everything you own
One of the biggest favors you can do for yourself when you move is to clear out your clutter. There is no sense in moving items you don’t need or use to your new home. Not only will this add extra time to packing and unpacking, you will pay more since most moves factor weight into the cost. As you pack, set aside those items that you can sell or donate. You can even arrange to have them picked up by a charity to save you time.
Not researching moving companies
Don’t just choose a moving company at random. Take time to thoroughly vet several moving companies before deciding on the one you will use. There are many moving scams out there, and you don’t want to become the next victim. Check each company’s reviews and find out if there are any complaints against them with the Better Business Bureau. You should also insist on getting an in-house estimate and not just having a price quoted over the phone or online. You don’t want to end up with a much higher bill come moving day.
Not having enough insurance
Accidents happen, and it’s not unusual for items to arrive at their new location broken or damaged. Before the move, find out what kind of insurance the mover has. You may discover that it only covers a portion of the value of your items. In these cases, it could be wise to purchase additional insurance from your mover. You should also check your homeowners insurance policy to see what may or may not be covered during your move.
Forgetting to pack a box of essentials
Finally, there are essential items that you will need when you arrive at your new place. After spending an exhausting day moving, the last thing you want to do is hunt through boxes for your toothbrush or a roll of toilet paper. Don’t forget to pack a few boxes of essentials that you can use in the first few days after your move. Include comfort items for kids and pets, basic tools, cleaning supplies, chargers, essential toiletries and medication, a can opener, disposable plates and utensils, and anything else that you can’t live without. It will make the transition so much smoother and more manageable.
