Relocating is an extremely complex and time-consuming task, prone to mistakes that could extend its timeline or put your belongings at risk.
However, these mistakes can often be avoided with proper planning and preparation. To help you avoid making these serious errors, the Saf Keep Storage team have created this list of things to be wary of: 1. Failing to Plan.
1. Not Planning Ahead
Moving can be one of the most stressful experiences a person will ever go through, with goodbyes, packing and sorting through what to keep vs what to give away all becoming part of the experience. Additionally, moving can be costly; with careful planning and foresight though it can become much less so.
One of the biggest mistakes people make during a move is not planning ahead enough, which can lead to panicked last-minute scrambling that increases costs and brings added stress. To avoid this from occurring, it is crucial that planning commence as soon as you know when your move will occur.
Preparing to move requires making a comprehensive list of tasks and deadlines, hiring professional movers in advance and getting your home organized. In addition, getting rid of items no longer used or needed will save both space and money when moving house.
One common error when moving is failing to inform all involved of their new address – including utility companies, banks and credit unions, insurance providers, schools, medical professionals and any subscription services you use – of the change in address. Failing to do this could cause complications down the line such as losing mail or bills being sent incorrectly.
Create a “car” pile for all the items you will need on moving day, such as food and drinks, clothing, toiletries, bedding and anything else that might come in handy – this will reduce the number of boxes needed while ensuring all important belongings remain protected and secure.
2. Not Labeling Boxes
Proper labeling of boxes can make the moving process more complex. To avoid making this mistake, start the labeling process early during packing stage and stick with an established system (written descriptions, numbers or color codes) of labeling that helps avoid confusion during both loading and unloading processes; clearly labeled box contents also ensure nothing gets misplaced or lost during transport.
People often make the mistake of overstuffing boxes when packing. This can result in items breaking or becoming damaged during transport. To prevent this, it’s best to use appropriate-sized boxes and pack tightly without leaving air gaps; additionally, use blankets or towels as padding to protect delicate items.
Label all boxes clearly, especially those containing fragile or essential items. This will enable movers to handle them with care while making it easier for you to locate these items when unpacking. Furthermore, adding a note telling movers it contains particularly heavy or delicate items can give them added insight on how best to treat it during transport and avoid potential damages.
Label all boxes you will need right away at your new home as “unpack first,” using either color or symbol markings, to help prioritize which to unpack first and make the process more efficient. Also remember to write on both sides of each box so they are easily identifiable from all directions.
3. Not Having Enough Materials for Packing
One of the biggest mistakes people make when packing up for a move is running out of materials. To ensure an easy moving experience, it’s essential that you plan your materials usage beforehand and purchase enough for all essentials – otherwise you could end up with broken boxes or items which haven’t been wrapped and taped securely shut!
As part of your moving preparations, it is advisable to have various supplies at your disposal such as scissors, box cutter and furniture pads. These tools can help maximize box usage while protecting delicate surfaces like countertops during transport. Also remember to have a change of address form ready as well as a list of contacts (utility companies, banks or credit unions, medical professionals, insurance providers and schools).
Poor-quality packing supplies are another common mistake that can ruin belongings and increase frustration during a move. Flimsy boxes may collapse under the weight of heavy items, and inferior tape may tear or unravel during transporting process. Therefore, investing in higher quality supplies that will stand up against time and stress of moving is wiser.
Finally, having an emergency supply of toiletries, medications and other necessities on hand during a move is vital to ensure you have what you need for an easy transition into your new home. Pack a small box of snacks and beverages as an energy booster during the move; this can prevent hunger from becoming an annoyance and source of anxiety during this stressful time.
4. Not Decluttering
Moving can be an extremely stressful time, and mistakes are easily made which delay the process. Luckily, there are ways you can avoid such errors to ensure a more efficient move experience.
One of the biggest mistakes people make when moving is not decluttering first. Although this task may be daunting, it’s crucial that you go through every room in your home and remove items no longer used or needed – doing this will reduce how many boxes need packing up while also making unpacking much simpler.
Start by sorting through your closet and clearing out any clothes or accessories you no longer wear, as well as anything out-of-style accessories. Next, go through your kitchen and throw away any utensils with chipped or scratched surfaces, before cleaning out your storage spaces of any clutter such as seasonal items, books or non-essential kitchen appliances you won’t use again in the near future.
Don’t forget to set aside a box with all of the essential items that will help ease the transition after moving, including toiletries, medications, and clothes for immediate use after moving day. Doing this will make navigating your new home much simpler in those first few days without digging through boxes for essentials like toothbrushes or underwear! Additionally, pack a bag containing any important documents or electronics as well as snacks and drinks you might require during transition – they will give you energy during a long day of moving!
5. Not Having a Checklist
Moving can be daunting without an organized checklist to guide the way, leading to costly mistakes and becoming stressful. There are numerous online moving checklists available and it is wise to create your own early. Create a timeline of tasks you must complete each day and allocate sufficient time per task – inform family members, babysitters and any other helpers of their timing for moving day as well.
Consider hiring a professional mover or renting a truck; get quotes and arrange services as you require them. If you are renting, be sure to notify both your landlord and management company so you have sufficient notice before moving day arrives. Also research parking rules at your new home location; if necessary. With regard to children, double-check their schools to determine whether there is an enrollment process; update utility companies, credit card providers and subscription providers with your new address as soon as possible and secure any online accounts before collecting warranties documents and manuals.
Filter out anything that’s unnecessary before moving day, to reduce stress and costs. By getting rid of items you no longer use or need, this can save money on boxes, packing materials and the movers’ time. If packing yourself, invest in quality boxes, tape, markers and supplies such as special boxes for dishes or clothing that may need additional protection; clearly label each box on multiple sides with its contents and where it will go in your new home to eliminate confusion and maximize efficiency; be prepared for unexpected expenses with cash set aside in an emergency fund; if possible plan the move during a weekend or holiday for optimal efficiency and success!