Common Moving Mistakes to Avoid

Are you in the process of moving? Whether it's across town or across the country, there are always a few things to keep in mind when relocating. It's something that requires careful planning, not just brute strength and cardboard boxes.

Moving is definitely one of the most exciting things you can do in your life, but it's also one of the most stressful life events you can face. That's why it's so important to plan accordingly and avoid some of the most common moving mistakes.

If you're someone that always feels like they could be forgetting something no matter the situation, these tips may come in handy during the moving process.

Putting it off

If you wait until the last minute to begin packing, you're going to end up with a lot of half-empty boxes, unorganized belongings, and lots more stress than you should have. This will make it more difficult (and time-consuming) to unpack in your new home, which is the last thing you want after a long day of lugging boxes around.

Instead, start packing well in advance of your move date so you can take your time and do it right. This will pay off in spades when you're not frantically trying to pack everything up the day before your move.

Packing without a system in place

Anyone who's ever moved knows that packing can be a stressful and time-consuming process. There's so much to remember, and it's easy to forget something important in the midst of all the chaos. That's why it's important to have a moving checklist in place before you start packing.

Make a moving checklist

First, make a moving checklist of everything you need to prepare for moving day. this includes the packing supplies you'll need including, but not limited to: boxes, bubble wrap, packing tape, packing paper, a box cutter, etc.

Then, categorize your items by room and pack one room at a time. As you pack, be sure to label all of your boxes clearly so you know where everything goes when you arrive at your new location. With a little planning and organization, the packing process can be a breeze.

Do a home audit

Moving is also the perfect opportunity to declutter your life and get rid of all the stuff you no longer need or use. But far too many people make the mistake of holding onto everything they own and bringing it all with them to their new home.

Why would you want more stuff to pack, move, and unpack in your new place? Trust us, your back will thank you later.

Not Measuring Your New Home First

Before you start packing up all your furniture and belongings, save yourself some stress and take measurements of your new home to get an idea of where all your stuff is going to fit.

This will give you a better idea of what furniture will actually fit in each room and help prevent any unpleasant surprises (like finding out that your king-size bed won't fit through the door of your new bedroom).

Not measuring ahead of time could also result in having to sell or donate some of your larger pieces of furniture, which is something you definitely want to avoid if at all possible.

Failing to change your address

This might seem like a no-brainer, but it's an easily overlooked task. Most states require you to change it within 30 days of moving.

If you don't update your address with the post office, important mail (like bills, checks, etc.) will continue being sent to your old home—which could cause all sorts of problems. So be sure to add changing your address to your giant list of things to do before moving day arrives. That way you won't have any unwanted surprises waiting for you at your new place.

Not Getting Moving Insurance

We get it, moving insurance sounds useless but you never know what could happen to your valuable items, especially in a long-distance or interstate move.

There are several potential risks and hazards that can arise during a move, such as accidents, theft, damage from weather, and loss due to natural disasters.

If you don't have moving insurance and something happens to your belongings, you may be left with no way to replace them or cover the costs of repairs. Moving insurance can provide peace of mind by giving you financial protection in the event that something goes wrong. It can also give you peace of mind knowing that your stuff is covered in case of any unexpected events during the moving process.

Not Hiring a Moving Company!

Sure, it sounds biased but it's true! It can be a total hassle trying to go through the process alone, especially if you have a large home. They pack their own boxes, load up their own rental truck, and drive to their new house without any professional help. While this might save you a few bucks in the short term, it's not worth the headaches and heartaches that come with it.

Professional movers are trained to do this job quickly and efficiently, which means your belongings are less likely to get damaged in transit. Not to mention, they can also help you unpack and get settled into your new home so you don't have to lift a finger.

We hope you avoid these common moving mistakes when your big day comes!