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10 Common Residential Moving Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Advance Moving

Updated: Oct 3, 2024



Moving to a new home can feel like a big adventure. It's exciting, but it also comes with its fair share of headaches. If you take one wrong step, you could end up with broken dishes or lost boxes.


Did you know that forgetting to label your boxes properly is one of the top mistakes people make when they move?


This article will walk you through the 10 common blunders folks make during the moving process. We'll give you tips on sidestepping these pitfalls, from choosing the right packing materials to ensuring your valuables are insured.


You'll learn how to pack like a pro, measure your new doorways, and even save money. Ready for smoother sailing ahead? Let's get started!


Key Takeaways

  • Check the moving company before hiring. Look at their license and ask others about them. This helps you avoid scams.

  • Save money on packing by using things like old newspapers and finding free boxes from stores or friends.

  • Pack heavy items in small boxes to prevent injury and make sure not to pack dangerous items that could catch fire or explode.

  • Measure your big furniture and the doorways of your new home to make sure everything will fit through the doors.

  • Label each box with what’s inside and where it goes in your new house. This keeps you organized during the move.

Common Residential Moving Mistakes


Moving houses can be tough. You might think you have everything under control, yet small errors can turn into big problems. One such error is not checking out your moving company before hiring them.


It sounds simple, but many skip this step and end up with a stressful move. Another mistake? Spending too much on packing supplies like bubble wrap when there are cheaper options available.


These blunders seem easy to dodge, yet they happen more often than you'd guess. Keep things straightforward and aim for a smooth move by steering clear of these common pitfalls.


1) Not researching your mover


Picking the right moving company is key. You should check their license and history with groups like the Better Business Bureau. Ask for past customer feedback too. This helps avoid scams and problems.

Also, use social media and websites to learn more about movers. Look at what others say on Facebook or Google Plus. A good mover has happy customers who talk about them online. Don't skip this step, it's a big deal in getting your stuff safely to your new home.


Ready for a stress-free move? Check out Advance Moving


2) Spending too much on packing


Packing for a move can cost more than you think. Many people buy new boxes and bubble wrap, which adds up fast. Instead, find free boxes at stores or ask friends who've moved recently.


Use old newspapers instead of buying packing paper. This way, you save money and recycle at the same time.


For heavy things like books or dishes, use small containers. It makes it easier to carry them and stops the box from breaking. Write on each box what's inside and which room it goes in.


This tip keeps things organized and saves time when you unpack in your new home. Simple steps like these help cut down on spending during your move.


3) Improper packing methods


Packing the wrong way can make moving tough. Always pack heavy items in small boxes. This tip helps avoid hurting your back, shoulders, and legs. Big things may seem right for big boxes, but that's not smart.


It makes them too hard to lift.


Never pack stuff that can catch fire or explode in your moving boxes. This includes paint thinner and batteries. These items are dangerous during a move and could harm you or your staff.


Always check what should not go into your boxes before you start packing.


4) Forgetting to take measurements


Moving day can be full of surprises, but one you don't want is finding out your couch won't fit through the door. Always measure wide spaces in your new home before moving. This includes doors and hallways.


Your furniture needs to pass these areas to reach its spot.


To avoid this mistake, use a tape measure for spaces where you'll place big items like sofas and beds. Write these numbers down. Then, check the size of your furniture. This step saves time and stress on moving days.


It ensures that all pieces will slide into your new home smoothly, without any hitches.


5) Neglecting to change address and forward mail


Changing your address and setting up mail forwarding are key steps during a move. If you forget, you might miss important letters or packages. This can lead to not getting bills or vital documents on time.


To avoid this, go to the post office and ask for a mail forwarding service before you move. You should also update your address with companies and people who send you mail often.


Not doing this can confuse those sending you things and cause delays. Imagine waiting longer for something important just because it went to your old house first! Make sure everyone knows where you're moving to keep things smooth.

It's a simple step but very important for a stress-free move.


6) Underestimating the amount of belongings


Many people think they don't have much stuff. But once you start to sort and pack, it's a surprise how much stuff adds up. Not having enough boxes or tape can be a big problem. This might make the moving day very rushed and stressful.

It’s smart to go through your items early. Make a list of what you have, and use this opportunity to throw away things you no longer need.


Packing tips can help here, too. They tell you the best ways to fit more into less space. And remember, labeling boxes saves lots of time when unpacking at your new place. Taking these steps ensures there's enough room for all your belongings in the moving truck—and keeps stress levels low!


7) Waiting until the last minute to start packing


Packing last minute is a big mistake. It makes moving chaotic and stressful. You might rush and forget important things. This can lead to packing in a hurry and not securing your items well for the move.


Start packing early to avoid these problems. This gives you time to label boxes correctly and organize everything. With more time, you won't overlook anything important or pack in a panic.


Early packing means less stress and a smoother move.


8) Failing to label boxes properly



Not putting the right labels on your boxes can lead to big mix-ups when you're setting up in your new home. Think of it this way: Each box needs a tag that tells what's inside, where it should go, and how to handle it safely.


This step is key for preventing breaks or damage. Imagine forgetting where you put your dishes or books because all the boxes look the same. That will slow you down a lot.


You might think packing them all now and figuring it out later works, but it doesn't. You end up opening every box just to find your coffee pot or sheets on the first night in your new place.


So, grab a marker and start labeling as soon as you fill up a box – not only with what’s inside but also which part of the house it belongs in. This simple act saves time and keeps things from breaking -- making sure everything arrives safely and goes where it should right from the start.


9) Not considering insurance options


Choosing not to look at insurance options can be a big mistake during a move. Moving companies often offer different kinds of protection for your belongings, so it's smart to check these before you sign any contracts.


Make sure the plan covers all your valuable or fragile items. Not all policies are the same, so it helps to compare what’s out there.


You might find that the basic coverage from the moving company isn't enough for your needs. In that case, looking into extra insurance might be worth it.

Remember to keep all your insurance papers in a safe place where you can easily get them if needed.


This way, if something goes wrong during the move, you're ready and protected.


10) Ignoring safety precautions


Ignoring safety rules during a move is a big mistake. It's easy to forget that heavy boxes can hurt you if not handled right. Pack heavy items in smaller boxes. This way, you avoid hurting your back, shoulders, and legs.


Also, don't pack things that could catch fire or explode. It's against the law and very dangerous for everyone involved.


Always remember the contract with your movers—the bill of lading. Keep it safe so if something goes wrong, you have proof of what was agreed upon. Making safety a priority keeps the move smooth and everyone out of trouble.


How to Avoid These Mistakes


To sidestep these moving mishaps, writing a to-do list can work wonders. Getting several bids from well-known companies keeps costs fair. Tossing out what you don't need makes packing smoother.


Jump into boxing up your stuff early to beat the rush. And do mark those boxes so you know what’s where! This method helps make moving less of a headache and more of an adventure.


Create a moving checklist.


Creating a moving checklist is like making a plan for a big adventure. You list everything you need to do from start to finish. This helps you remember important tasks such as researching your moving company, getting moving insurance, and changing your address.


A good list reminds you when to start packing boxes and what items you shouldn't pack because they're unsafe.


Getting this checklist done early gives you peace of mind. You can see all the steps laid out in front of you. It's like having a map that guides you through the whole moving process smoothly.


Plus, it makes it easier to share the plan with everyone helping out so they know how to help best.


Declutter before packing


Cutting down on stuff is key before putting items in boxes. Take a good look around your place. You'll find things you don't use or need anymore. Sell some, give others away, or throw out broken stuff.


This step makes packing and moving easier and might even save money on moving costs because you have less to move.


Use this chance to organize what stays and what goes. Create groups – 'keep', 'sell', 'donate', 'toss'. It's not just about throwing away; it's making sure only the necessary things go to the new home.


This process keeps your move smooth and stress-free, letting you enjoy setting up in the new space with only what makes sense for your life now.


Start packing early


Packing early is like saving money for a rainy day — it seems like a lot of work at first, but you'll thank yourself later. You can easily scrounge for boxes from local stores or friends who've recently moved.


This way, you save cash and avoid the last-minute rush. Plus, starting early gives you time to sort things out. Decide what to keep, donate, or toss away.


Use clear labels on your boxes, making unpacking much simpler when you get to your new place. Think about packing room by room. It makes tracking your belongings easier. Also, remember those items you rarely use? Pack them first! By doing so, you're not digging through things at the eleventh hour trying to find your toothbrush or bed sheets on a moving day.


Properly label and organize boxes.


Labeling your boxes is a key step. Write what's inside, where it goes, and how to handle it on each box. This makes moving smoother for everyone. Use big letters and markers that are easy to see.


Don't forget to mark boxes with fragile items clearly.


Organizing your boxes saves time later. Group them by room or type of item. This way, unloading is quick and everything ends up in the right place from the start. Think of it like a puzzle - proper planning helps everything fit perfectly in your new home.


Conclusion


In summary, moving can be a smooth sail when you avoid these common slip-ups and embrace the tips shared. For a stress-free move, planning ahead, picking the right crew, and staying organized are key steps.


Making a move to a new home? Advance Moving is here to help. This company knows moving can be hard, so they work to make it easy for you. They offer full-service moves in Mississauga and Toronto.


Their team wants your moving day to be smooth.


Need advice or have questions about moving? Reach out and talk with an expert at Advance Moving. You can learn how they make moves successful.


Visit www.advancemoving.ca today and see what services they provide for your big day!

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