9 Common Moving Mistakes To Avoid

Moving to a new home is an exciting yet often stressful experience. There are countless tasks to complete, decisions to make, and unexpected challenges to overcome.

A removalist, also known as a mover or moving professional, is an individual or a company that specialises in assisting people with the process of relocating their belongings from one location to another. Removalists provide a range of services to make the moving process smoother, more efficient, and less stressful for their clients.

By hiring a professional removalist, clients can save time, reduce stress, and ensure that their belongings are transported safely and efficiently to their new homes. These contractors also provide tips to make sure the moving process goes smoothly and without any complications.

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Not budgeting for all moving costs

One of the most common mistakes people make when moving is underestimating the costs involved. To avoid this, create a comprehensive moving budget that accounts for all possible expenses. Some of the items to include in your budget are:

• Professional removalist fees
• Packing materials
• Utility connection and disconnection fees
• Temporary storage, if needed
• Travel expenses, including fuel and accommodations
• Additional insurance coverage for valuable items
• Potential costs for cleaning, repairs, or renovations in your new home

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Underestimating the amount of packing materials needed

Running out of packing materials can be frustrating and time-consuming. To prevent this, make sure you have enough boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, tape, and other supplies to protect your belongings. Here are some tips for estimating the number of packing materials you'll need:

• Assess the size and number of rooms in your home.
• Consider the type and amount of furniture, appliances, and other household items you own.
• Make a list of fragile or valuable items that require special packing materials, such as artwork or electronics.
• Calculate the number of boxes needed by using an online moving box calculator or consulting with a professional removalist.

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Failing to declutter before the move

Moving is the perfect opportunity to declutter and eliminate items you no longer need or use. Not only will this save you time and effort during packing, but it can also reduce your moving costs. To declutter effectively:

• Start early – at least several weeks before your move – to give yourself ample time to sort through your belongings.
• Go room by room, creating piles of items to keep, donate, sell, or discard.
• Consider hosting a garage sale or selling items online to earn some extra cash.
• Arrange for donations to be picked up or dropped off at local charities.

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Not labelling boxes properly

Properly labelling your moving boxes is essential for staying organised and ensuring that your items are placed in the correct rooms in your new home. To label your boxes effectively:

• Use a permanent marker to write the contents of each box and the room it belongs to.
• Number your boxes and create a master inventory list to keep track of everything.
• Label fragile items clearly, with a "Fragile" or "Handle with Care" notation.
• Consider using colour-coded labels or stickers to make it easy to identify boxes for each room.

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Neglecting to pack a moving day essentials kit

Having a moving day essentials kit will help you stay organized and comfortable during the first day or two in your new home. Your essentials kit should include items such as:

• Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, toilet paper)
• Medications and first aid supplies
• A change of clothes and pyjamas
• Bedding and towels
• Important documents (passports, IDs, lease or purchase agreements, etc.)
• Chargers for electronic devices
• Basic tools (screwdriver, hammer, pliers, box cutter)
• Snacks, bottled water, and non-perishable food items
• Disposable plates, cups, and utensils
• Pet supplies (if applicable)

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Choosing the wrong size moving truck

Selecting a moving truck that's too small can lead to multiple trips and increased costs, while a truck that's too large may be difficult to maneuver or park. To choose the right size truck, consider the following factors:

• The total volume of your belongings – consult with a professional removalist or use an online calculator to estimate the size of the truck you'll need.
• The distance of your move – a larger truck may be more economical for long-distance moves, while a smaller truck may suffice for short-distance relocations.
• Parking availability and accessibility at both your current and new homes – ensure that the truck can be parked and loaded/unloaded without difficulty.

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Hiring an unlicensed or uninsured removalist

Hiring a reputable, licensed, and insured removalist is crucial for a successful move. Unlicensed or uninsured movers may provide subpar service or leave you vulnerable to damages or theft. To find a reliable removalist:

• Ask for recommendations from friends, family, or coworkers.
• Check online reviews and testimonials.
• Verify the company's licensing and insurance information.
• Request quotes from multiple removalists and compare their services and rates.
• Ask for references and follow up with past customers.

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Not scheduling your move far enough in advance

Waiting until the last minute to schedule your move can lead to limited availability, higher costs, and increased stress. To avoid this, start planning your move as soon as possible. Ideally, you should:

• Schedule your move at least four to six weeks in advance to secure your preferred date and time.
• If possible, avoid peak moving times, such as weekends, holidays, and the beginning or end of the month, as rates may be higher and availability may be limited.
• Notify your current and future utility providers about your move to ensure a seamless transition.

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Failing to do a final walkthrough of your old home

Before leaving your old home for the last time, it's essential to conduct a thorough final walkthrough. This can help you identify any overlooked items or issues that need to be addressed. During your final walkthrough, be sure to:

• Check all closets, cabinets, and storage areas for any forgotten belongings.
• Inspect appliances, fixtures, and systems to ensure they're functioning properly and are in good condition.
• Look for any damage or necessary repairs that may need to be reported to your landlord or addressed before the sale of the property.
• Turn off all lights, appliances, and water sources.
• Lock all doors and windows and leave keys or other access devices as directed by your landlord or the property

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