Mistakes People Make When Moving

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Mistakes People Make When Moving

What is the biggest mistake people make when moving, you ask? Well, probably not reading this blog post about the most common mistakes people had committed before, during, and after they moved so that you can avoid them yourself!

Let’s face it: as fulfilling as it can be once you finally step into your fully furnished house, the process of actually moving can be callous; from the paperwork, vigorous packing, and sorting until the very last moment, the last piece of furniture is placed in your new home. It’s indeed a bitter-sweet adventure. 

Moreover, another “bitterness” that can add to your process of moving is the errors you can make while preparing to move. Regardless if it’s your first time moving or your 11th time, you will still inevitably make mistakes. It’s easy to overlook important details and rush to complete tasks at the last minute when moving. However, thanks to the people who have relocated for the 11th time, we compiled the most common errors people make when moving – saving you the trouble. And knowing about them beforehand makes it simple to avoid them.

6 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Moving

Mistake #1: Not “valuing” your valuable

The amount of stuff you have to sort and pack when moving places can be honestly overwhelming. You have the things in your living room, like your TV, bookshelves, and sofa. In addition to another room of objects, like your bedroom with drawers, lamps, a bed and many more. It’s easier to be careless at that point and just shove everything in the truck – damaging your valuables without even knowing it. Who wants to watch on a scratched tv screen anyway? 

To avoid this, make sure you’re packing correctly. You can check out our previous blog that lists all the tips you need to protect your belongings when moving. When it comes to fragile objects, the best way to protect them is with bubble wrap, newspaper, or just any kind of paper. Utilize your outdated fashion and cosmetics magazine sitting under your coffee table for ages! Repurposing these things can not only protect your valuables but also the environment.

Here is a list of everyday things you can utilize to protect your belongings:

  • Blankets
  • Bubble wrap
  • Pillowcases
  • Styrofoam
  • Paper bags
  • Tissue (for small items)

Mistake #2: Doing everything yourself

barefoot woman carrying boxes

We get it. You’re independent. But in relocating, sticking to independence can often cost you more than you think instead of seeking professional help. These moving experts exist for a reason. And one of those reasons is to guide – not just the objects but families into their new place. Moving companies are physical messengers to help people save time, money, and effort. They understand how to plan a relocation effectively, keeping your belongings safe and intact. 

But hiring just about any moving company you see on the internet is not recommended. You might even end up hiring a non-reputable company! No one wants that (see the next common mistake below)

Mistake #3: Not researching your movers

photo of a hand typing on a laptop

Before clicking that tempting “book now!” button on a weird-looking website, make sure you’ve already asked yourself, “is this the right moving company for me?”. Not researching your mover before hiring them is like rolling a dice and hoping for the best. To eliminate uncertainty, always look up the details of a particular company and see if it aligns with yours. Compare them by looking at online reviews, mission and vision statements, truck sizes, and costs. 

A local move costs substantially less than a long-distance one. Estimates for local activities are often based on the total time required, including driving time. Time minimums that double drive time fees are permitted. Additional fees may be added on top of the initial estimate when large items like furniture and appliances are included. These factors can assist you in choosing the best movers to work with.

a graph showing data of amounts lost in scams

Additionally, scams are another thing you can avoid when you do your research. In fact, during the pandemic, the Better Business Bureau reported that Americans lost 9 million dollars to moving scams in 2022. So remember to be careful when analyzing whether a company is reputable or not. Read our previous blog post to find out the signs to look out for if a company is legitimate or not. 

Source: HireAHelper Moving Scams Data Study 2022

Graph retrieved from HireAHelper Moving Scams Data Study 2022

Mistake #4: Not labeling your boxes

photo of a box getting labeled

Moving takes a lot of time and can be both fun and stressful. The number of times people want to move quickly, easily neglecting the little details such as labeling their boxes, has been a common mistake. Unpacking is less complicated when boxes are labeled. It suffices to note the type of objects within a box and where they should be placed in your new house. 

It is imperative to identify your packages to prevent breaking your prized possessions and consequently save time. Give as much detail as you can in the boxes. For instance, marking seasonal items like winter clothing will be much simpler to organize in your new house if you label them. Any permanent markers will do, but you can buy fancy labeling stickers at a local store. Moving experts also benefit from organized and labeled boxes. They will surely appreciate your punctuality. Making your move easier for not just you but also your movers is admirable.

Mistake #5: Not getting rid of useless stuff

boxes stacked up on the floor

We know it’s hard to let go… to let go of the things that’ve been a part of your daily life. But when moving houses, it’s highly recommended that you not pack everything you own. Think of it as an opportunity to pare down your personal items. Most of the time, reducing your stuff can help you save money on transportation and packing expenses. Get rid of anything you haven’t used in a while before packing. You can give them to your friends, donate them to charity, recycle or just toss them in the trash. Decluttering might help you pack more successfully and become more organized in your new home.

Mistake #6: Procrastinating 

timid guy lying on the sofa

Great! Your relocation has been scheduled for a week from now. One question: when should you start? Well, the only answer is – right now. It might be challenging to know where to begin when you have a lot to do. Many people make the common moving mistake of putting off things until the very last minute to start the moving process due to an overwhelming list. They often get shocked by how much time they have already wasted. And there’s a fine line between being lazy and procrastinating. 

Laziness is sometimes mistaken for procrastination. Procrastination is when we desire to do something but cannot bring ourselves to begin, but being lazy is when we do nothing and feel perfectly fine. Procrastination also causes stress, which lowers the quality of the output. So, be a responsible homeowner; make and start the job immediately. Besides, it’s much better to have a ton of spare time after you’ve finished packing. So, chop chop! Stop procrastinating and don’t look elsewhere. Optimum Moving & Storage is ready to help you with your move in and out of NC. Call us today!

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