Making a big move is one of those things that you do only once or twice in your life. This is why there is always room for mistakes. There is little previous experience to rely on. In the stress and crunch that ensues, people often do things without careful planning. But if you start ahead and do some research, it is possible to get moving down to a science and avoid making some basic mistakes. Here is a list of mistakes that you should try to avoid.
1. Planning at the last minute
Needless to say, waiting until the last minute to start planning for your big move is only going to lead to misery. The amount of time you will lose from stressing out and trying to keep track of where you put everything is definitely not worthwhile. You should start packing and planning your move months in advance of your actual moving date. Even then, you will be left scampering and doing last-minute packing.
2. Relying on memory
If you get too confident and think that you will be able to remember what you have packed in all the identical boxes, you will be wrong. You might also think that you don’t need to make a list of things to pack, but this is a sure way of forgetting essentials at the last minute. Never rely on memory in stressful times, and always keep a list handy.
3. Holding on to stuff
It is hard to discard things, but remember that keeping unnecessary things will only add to unnecessary expenses. Try to get rid of everything but the nonessentials. It is probably cheaper to buy those things again than haul them across the country.
4. Not reading reviews about the moving company
It might be tempting to settle for the first moving company that comes up on your search, but it is always a good idea to read reviews before choosing one. A lot of moving companies can do shoddy jobs, scam you off your money, or overcharge you grossly.
5. Going with your first option
There is more than one reason not to go with your first option. Get long-distance moving quotes from a variety of companies before you pick one. They will often provide competitive rates that will help you save money.
6. Skimping on movers
You should not only hire a moving company for dealing with your boxes, but you should also get movers to help you pack up. This will save time and stress and keep you organized.
7. Not packing properly
But if you decide to pack by yourself, then make sure that you are packing properly. Use the correct packing material, such as bubble wrap and Styrofoam. Avoid the temptation to cram everything into plastic boxes.
8. Trying to do everything alone
If you start out with the mentality that you will do everything alone and avoid asking for help from anyone, you will end up feeling stressed, upset, and demotivated. Ask your close friends and family to give you a hand.
Remember that moving does not always have to be stressful. There are experts out there to help you. These are some common mistakes people make, but that doesn’t mean that you have to make them, too.
