Moving can be a daunting task, filled with potential pitfalls that can turn what should be an exciting new chapter into a stressful ordeal. At Brown Bear Moving Ltd., we’ve seen it all and are here to help you avoid the most common moving mistakes. Here’s our top ten list, complete with real-life examples and expert advice.
1. Procrastinating Packing
Pitfall: Leaving packing until the last minute can lead to a rushed and disorganized move, increasing the risk of damaged items and forgotten belongings.
Solution: Start packing well in advance. Create a packing schedule that breaks down the process into manageable chunks, tackling one room at a time.
Example: One client started packing just two days before their move. They ended up with broken dishes and a lot of stress. Early packing could have prevented this.
2. Underestimating Time and Effort
Pitfall: Many people underestimate the time and effort required to move, leading to burnout and unfinished tasks.
Solution: Plan realistically. Allow extra time for each task and enlist help from friends, family, or professional movers like Brown Bear Moving Ltd.
Example: A family thought they could move their entire home in one day without professional help. They ended up moving until midnight and were exhausted. Hiring movers could have made the process smoother and quicker.
3. Not Decluttering
Pitfall: Moving everything you own, including items you no longer need, can lead to unnecessary stress and higher moving costs.
Solution: Take the time to declutter before you pack. Donate, sell, or recycle items you don’t use anymore.
Example: One client moved with a garage full of unused items and ended up paying more for the extra weight. Decluttering could have saved them time and money.
4. Forgetting to Label Boxes
Pitfall: Unlabelled boxes lead to confusion and make unpacking a nightmare.
Solution: Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. Consider color-coding for easy identification.
Example: A client didn’t label their boxes, which resulted in a chaotic unpacking process and a lot of misplaced items. Proper labelling could have avoided this hassle.
5. Ignoring the Importance of Insurance
Pitfall: Not insuring your belongings during a move can result in significant financial loss if items are damaged or lost.
Solution: Check your existing insurance policies and consider purchasing additional moving insurance for valuable items.
Example: One client had a valuable antique vase that broke during the move. Without insurance, they had to cover the cost themselves. Moving insurance would have provided compensation.
6. Overpacking Boxes
Pitfall: Overpacked boxes are difficult to move and more likely to break, causing damage to your belongings.
Solution: Use sturdy boxes and avoid overfilling them. Distribute weight evenly and use smaller boxes for heavier items like books.
Example: A client packed all their books into one large box that was impossible to lift and ended up breaking. Using smaller boxes would have prevented this.
7. Not Preparing an Essentials Box
Pitfall: Arriving at your new home without essential items can be inconvenient and stressful.
Solution: Pack an essentials box with items you’ll need immediately, such as toiletries, clothes, medications, and important documents.
Example: One family spent their first night in their new home without access to basic items because they were buried in other boxes. An essentials box would have ensured they had what they needed.
8. Overlooking Utility Set-Up
Pitfall: Forgetting to set up utilities in your new home can lead to uncomfortable living conditions.
Solution: Arrange for utilities to be turned on at your new home before you move in. This includes electricity, water, internet, and gas.
Example: A client moved into their new home only to find they had no electricity or internet. Planning utility set-up in advance would have avoided this inconvenience.
9. Neglecting to Measure Doorways and Furniture
Pitfall: Furniture that doesn’t fit through doorways can lead to damage and delays.
Solution: Measure your furniture and doorways in both your old and new homes. Consider disassembling large items if necessary.
Example: A client’s sofa didn’t fit through their new front door, causing damage and requiring additional moving labour. Measuring in advance could have prevented this issue.
10. DIY Moving Without Professional Help
Pitfall: Attempting to handle a move entirely on your own can lead to injury, stress, and damaged belongings.
Solution: Hire professional movers like Brown Bear Moving Ltd. to handle the heavy lifting, transportation, and logistics.
Example: A client tried to move a large piano themselves, resulting in a strained back and a damaged piano. Professional movers would have ensured safe and efficient transport.
Conclusion
Avoiding these common moving mistakes can make your relocation experience much smoother and more enjoyable. At Brown Bear Moving Ltd., we’re here to help every step of the way. From packing to transport, our professional team is dedicated to making your move as stress-free as possible. Contact us today to learn how we can assist with your next move – and remember, moving doesn’t have to be un-bear-able!
