While it’s wonderful to experience different places, moving isn’t most people’s favorite thing. If you’re someone who hasn’t moved many times it can be quite overwhelming. Not being familiar with the tasks on your moving checklist can result in one or many of them being overlooked or underestimated. To help you avoid moving mishaps, we’ve listed some of the most common mistakes people make when relocating.
Choosing the Wrong Moving Company
These days it is critical to thoroughly vet each moving company you consider hiring. The Internet has created more and more opportunities for scams, and people who move are especially vulnerable. It’s almost unthinkable to search for professional help offline, so while you Google them, make sure the movers you consider are licensed by a state Department of Transportation, well-graded by the Better Business Bureau, and employing background-checked staff members.
Buying Things You Can Get For Free
Brand new boxes and specialized packing materials have their advantages. But, if you’re on a budget you can save a few bucks by searching out free resources. Start by asking some of your local electronics stores and liquor stores if you can take a look through their recycling bins. Because the items they sell are fragile, the boxes they have laying around are usually strong and sturdy. In fact, bottle boxes come with compartments that can help you with glassware and other breakables. Additionally, newspapers, sheets, and clothing make good alternatives to packing peanuts.
Making Boxes Too Heavy
It can be tempting to go after those big boxes and consolidate as many belongings as you can. But, this usually results in boxes that are too heavy—it’s a mistake we’ve all made at least once. When packing up things like books and plates remember that heavy things should always go in small boxes. Do what you can to keep them under 50 pounds.
Not Measuring the Doorways in Your New Home
It would be a pretty huge problem to find that your couch won’t fit through the door of your new home. Before the truck shows up at your new place, make sure you know how the big stuff will be maneuvered inside, which might mean dismantling a few things or taking a door off its hinges.
Packing Dangerous Materials
Most professional movers, including us, don’t move flammables, corrosives, or any kind of liquid. We have this rule for the sake of your other items. If you have lighter fluid for your barbeque, left over fireworks, or a full fish tank, you’ll need to make other arrangements for their transport.
Losing Your Bill of Lading
The bill of lading is the contract you’ve made with your movers, and it’s absolutely essential that you keep track of this document throughout the moving process. If somehow there’s a mix up, you’ll be able to refer to your contract and straighten things out.
Not Labeling Your Boxes
The first few boxes you put together will undoubtedly be well-labeled. But as you pack box after box, you start to get tired and some may make their way to the truck with zero identification. This spells trouble for unpacking. So, be sure to label each box not only with its final room destination, but also handling instructions and some specific items inside. When you’re staring a 15 boxes labeled “kitchen” you’ll be really happy when you know exactly which one holds your coffee maker.
Forgetting to Change Your Address
Losing bills in the mail can be a nightmare. So before you move, take a few minutes to notify your bank, credit card company, utilities, as well as the U.S. Postal Service of your new address. It might also be a good idea to make an arrangement with your home buyers to collect any mail that might still arrive for you.
These are some of the biggest blunders you can make while moving. But, don’t forget the psychological aspects of relocating. Make sure every family member is prepared for the move, and give yourself some time to adjust as well.
Trust in Master Movers Moving & Storage for all of your moving needs. We can take care of everything! Give us a call today at 503-762-1288 or email us at CustomerService@mastermovers.com.