7 Common Moving Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Whenever you’re focused on many tasks at the same time, it can often be difficult to avoid missteps – such is the case with moving. During the relocation process, your mind is fixated on everything from logistical details of the move to how you’re going to get it all done in time. It’s simply human to make errors, but, moving is stressful enough as it is. With that said, the least number of moving mistakes you can make, the smoother, more pleasant (and often cheaper) the entire process will be on you and everyone involved.

Moving is just not one of those things that anyone wants to learn the hard way. In fact, the more you can learn about what should and should not be done during your next move, the better your relocation will go. If you want to avoid common moving mistakes, you must know what you’re going to be up against. Continue reading to learn about the 7 most common moving mistakes and how to avoid them.

1. Underestimating the move.

One of the most common mistakes you can make when moving is underestimating the scale of the move and how long things are going to take. This is especially the case when moving long distance, as these types of moves are not the same as traditional moves. Long distance moves are much more complex and require a lot more planning and preparation. Unlike local moves, you can’t make several trips back and forth if you forgot something.

Not to mention, regardless of the type of move, the packing process usually takes far more time than anyone initially anticipates. To prepare accordingly for any move, it’s highly advisable to draw up a detailed checklist, a realistic timeline and then add some extra time onto it for safety.

Additionally, make sure that you’ve obtained all of the moving services you need from your moving company. Don’t forget to consider the fact that you may also need a storage solution. You’ll want to avoid having to choose and rent out storage at the very last moment.

1. Not getting the proper insurance.

One of the worst mistakes you can make is not obtaining the right valuation protection for your items, especially for an interstate relocation as the risk of damage to your items is much higher. Federally, it is required that interstate movers offer both released-valued and full-value protection to their customers. The former places the value of your items at a mere 60 cents per pound, and since your belongings are likely worth much more than that, the latter is often preferable.

Full-value insurance coverage is based on your own valuation of the items, meaning if anything is damaged during transit, you will receive a replacement item of equal value or your moving company will pay for the repairs. Although the chances of you actually having to use your insurance is minimal (especially if you’ve chosen a quality moving company), you must decide if that’s a risk you’re willing to take. Making the wrong decision could mean that you end up with little to no recourse if something negative happens.

Therefore, make sure that you ask your moving company about the insurance options that they offer. Once you get all the details, you can make an informed decision about which coverage is right for you and whether you should obtain more coverage than what is offered.

1. DIYing a move when you need more help.

Although hiring a professional mover may not the most affordable option, it is almost always worth the cost. Handling a move all by yourself, or even with the assistance of some friends, is going to require a lot of time and labor. Also, if you have items that are of high value, you put them at a serious risk when you don’t hire professionals. While there are plenty of moving situations where DIYing a move may be perfectly fine, it’s a huge mistake to immediately disregard a moving company just because you want to save a couple bucks.

Instead, be honest with yourself about what it’s going to entail to successfully execute your move. Also, consider the amount of work that you’re willing and able to put into it. If you just have a few items that need to be moved locally, then a DIY move is a viable option. However, if you have a truckload of hefty items, do yourself a favor by enlisting the help of professional movers.

1. Not doing enough research on a moving company.

There are countless moving companies out there, but that does not mean that they’re all created equal. In order to find the best movers for the job, it’s crucial that you read reviews, get referrals, and obtain quotes and information from multiple companies. If you just go with the first name that shows up during your Google search, you’re taking a major risk with both your possessions and your sanity.

When it comes to choosing a professional moving company, make sure you do thorough research. Before making your decision, gather a list of reputable companies that you feel you can trust. Then, from there, you can make an informed decision about which movers are best for your move and your budget.

1. Failure to declutter or get rid of things prior to the move.

There is no better time than prior to a move than to take stock of your possessions and purge anything you no longer want or need. In fact, the less stuff you have to move, the easier and cheaper your relocation is going to be. It also means that you reduce the time wasted on packing, minimize your list of tasks to get done, and start off life in your new home organized and clutter-free.

As you’re packing, take the time to sort the items you don’t want or need into piles: donate, recycle, and toss piles. Try to resist the urge to hang onto items that no longer serve you – we promise you will not miss them!

1. Not labelling boxes correctly.

Another common mistake that happens during the moving process is related to the labeling of the boxes. It is very important that your moving boxes are meticulously labeled to include the contents and room they belong in. Fragile items must also be marked accordingly, in big, bold lettering. Essentially, you want to make it easy on yourself and your movers. That way, one glance at a moving box will tell you exactly what’s inside, where it needs to go, and how it should be handled.

This simple step can help to prevent a lot of unnecessary damage to your belongings. It also makes the unpacking process go much smoother, as all your boxes will have been delivered to the exact rooms they belong.

1. Booking movers too late.

The final, most common, mistake you could make during a move is booking your movers last minute. Scheduling your moving date well in advance will ensure that you get the best deal and are able to move on the dates requested. Generally speaking, the further the distance, the sooner you should reach out and start booking your movers. With that said, it’s best to start doing research and begin the booking process once you know about your move.

Moving doesn’t have to be a stressful experience, riddled with missteps. If you educate yourself on the common moving mistakes and how to avoid them, you’ll be able to plan ahead and set yourself up for a successful move. Of course, surprises can still arise, but you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you’ve covered all the basics.

To get an estimate for your upcoming move, fill out our online request form located at the top of this page, or give us a call at (888) 202-0036 to speak with a moving consultant and find out how you can save up to 20% when you move with Three Movers!

common moving mistakes