Most people are aware of the fact that moving can be a rather complex process. Even knowing this, however, some people still go into it unprepared. They are then blindsided with issues they never even thought about. Before you embark on the journey that is relocation, you should consider ways how to avoid some of the most common moving problems. From picking the moving company that will fit your needs and expectations perfectly, to ways of doing inventory and budgeting your move, this guide will help you prepare for your move.
What are the most common moving problems to avoid?
Obviously, anything we do, we are bound to make some mistakes. Even the most thoroughly thought-out plans can fall short when the time comes for them to be put to work. You will feel confident going about moving only after you’ve already been around the block several times. Some of the biggest moving headaches include finding reliable movers at a decent price, as well as nailing the organizational side of things, such as packing and unpacking in the most time-efficient and sensible way. Another major issue that comes up is putting off doing anything about your move until the very last minute. Finally, unexpected expenses can be a nasty surprise that pops up in the most inopportune moments of your move.
Time is of the essence
If you are reading this text, you probably don’t want to go into the moving process unprepared. Planning your move ahead of time will save you plenty of headaches when you actually get down to business. It would be a good idea to make a list of things that need to be done. Start with the ones that are immediately obvious to you. As you look into these, you will notice other things that you need to add to your list. Having one place where you note down what’s left to do will be of great help. When it comes to the time allowed for each activity on your list, it is better to err on the side of caution. Leave enough time for each thing in case something goes wrong along the way.
Budgeting and inventory
Setting up a budget for your move and doing an inventory before and while packing is a great way how to avoid some of the most common moving problems. Firstly, creating a budget for your move will help you feel in total control of the proceedings. It can even help you save money in certain cases. Your budget template should include every expense, no matter how small or unimportant it may seem.
Lots of people focus only on what they have to pay the movers. They then forget that they also have to pay for the packing supplies and transport. Perhaps it will turn out you’ll need to rent a storage unit for some time. These are all of the things that should factor into your budget. In the end, once you feel as if you’ve come up with a plan that covers everything you think you’ll need, make sure to be ready to spend another 5% of the total cost, just in case.
Doing inventory is exactly how to avoid the most common moving problems. First of all, before you start on your inventory, make sure you have gone through your belongings and cast out everything you know you won’t need. Be honest with yourself during this purge. It will make your move much easier when it comes to packing and unpacking. It will also give you a feeling of starting fresh in your new home. This is especially true if you are moving into a smaller space.
Secondly, we suggest you make a list of the belongings you are taking with you. This is best done room by room. You should also include as many necessary details about each item as possible. Packing things that go in the same room will make unpacking much easier too. Some experts suggest taking photos of your things as well. Finally, the moving company you hire will make its own inventory list. We advise making your own inventory list before seeing before the moving company arrives. It would also be advisable to compare your lists before signing your contract as this will help you make sure all of your things arrive safely to their destination.
Most common problems with moving companies
One of the most common issues that can arise when moving is not choosing the right moving company. The market is overly saturated with different offers and sometimes it can be difficult to tell one company apart from another. However, the internet can actually make making a decision easier for you as you can estimate the cost of your move online with ease. This means you can contact multiple companies and ask them for estimates for your move and then choose the one with the best offer. Pay close attention to everything in your contract before you sign it, especially what kind of estimate they’re offering.
Another problem that can come up with a moving company is insurance. This is particularly important if you are moving any larger pieces of furniture or sensitive items such as paintings or a piano, for example. Insurance should be included in your estimate. It is important to pay special attention to this if you want to make sure your belongings are safe and sound when they arrive at your new home. Lots of people look at insurance as a given and don’t really look into it before they sign a contract. Sometimes the basic insurance plan you get with your moving contract won’t cover the insurance of certain items like the ones listed.
How to avoid the most common moving problems?
Hopefully, this guide has covered the top 5 moving problems and how to avoid them. The basic principle for approaching your move without making too many mistakes is to be thoughtful and avoid procrastinating. Carefully consider everything you need, make lists as well as good choices.