Moving is complicated and stressful. There’s more to it than buying boxes, packing your stuff and relocating to your new home because, in reality, there are a lot of things that could go wrong. Here are some of the most common moving mistakes, and tips on how to avoid them through proper planning and allocating enough time towards the process.

1. MISCALCULATING HOW MANY BOXES YOU NEED

Before packing your things, try to come up with a good estimate of the number of boxes you need. If you fall short, take note of what you already have — such as suitcases and dresser drawers — and use them as makeshift moving containers to cut down on the costs of boxes.

2. NOT USING ENOUGH PADDING

Having enough padding materials is necessary if you don’t want to end up with broken items when you arrive in your new home. You will need a good stock of bubble wrap or thick packing paper to cushion fragile items and protect your furniture edges from scratches.

PRO TIP: Use personal items such as linens, blankets, bedding, and even clothes and dish towels to wrap up any fragile and sharp objects and fill in the gaps in their moving boxes.

3. FORGETTING TO LABEL YOUR BOXES

“Labelling boxes is Moving 101,” according to Moving.com. When you pack your things, don’t forget to have markers and tape with you to organize your stuff. Labelling your boxes will lessen the time it will take you to unpack, and help you find items you need in the first few days.

PRO TIP: Include which room each box will be moving to, so items can be moved directly to their destination (instead of in a heap in the living room).

4. PACKING LAST MINUTE

Even if you’re the least organized person and you plan to just throw things into moving boxes, remember that packing still takes time. You might think it will only take you an hour to pack the things in your bedroom, when in reality, it could take you a whole day to sort through your stuff. The kitchen might even take you 2-3 days, especially if you have any delicate items that need to be carefully wrapped and stored. Remember to give yourself enough time and be realistic about how much it will take you to tackle each area in your home. You can avoid the stress of trying to pack on a tight timeline when you plan these things ahead.

5. NOT PREPARING A MOVING ESSENTIALS BAG

A moving essentials bag is a duffel bag, backpack, or a suitcase where you can easily access the things you’ll need on the day of your move and the few days after it. It’ll be convenient for you since you won’t have to rummage through all your moving boxes just to find a basic item you’re looking for. Fill it with your personal items and necessities such as your wallet, keys, medications, basic toiletries, important documents, electronics and chargers, a few clothes, etc. If you have kids, remember to have them pack their own essentials bag.

6. NOT DECLUTTERING BEFORE THE MOVE

Moving your home is a great opportunity to go through your belongings and evaluate what you need in your new home and what can be donated, trashed or sold. Remember that the fewer things you have to move, the less stressful it can be for you — plus, you’ll save time, money, and effort, and won’t have to waste resources like boxes and fuel. Giving yourself plenty of time to pack and go through your things, and you’ll thank you yourself when you start unpacking your new home!

7. YOU DIDN’T USE A PROFESSIONAL MOVING COMPANY

Think twice before deciding to DIY your move instead of hiring the expertise of a professional moving company to save money. Remember that a DIY move may not be as cheap if you will count these major pitfalls, such as wear and tear on your body, damage to household goods, and unexpected fuel costs. Even if you have friends who are willing to help, it’s still labor-intensive and risky.

Hiring moving experts will help you in assessing the size of your move. They are also a great help for moving belongings and furniture, lifting heavy items, and handling the move in a safe and organized manner. You will do yourself a favor if you hire the pros, especially if you have a truck’s worth of heavy belongings.

HGR CLIENT BENEFITS: Did you know our clients receive a free moving essentials package from our partners at You Move Me Guelph? Reach out to your agent to start planning your stress-free move!

8. UNDERESTIMATING THE COST OF YOUR MOVE

Most movers offer free estimates, so you can have a general idea of what your move will cost you. Figure out how much you need to budget so you won’t be surprised in case there’s a fuel surcharge or you will need significant add-on services from the movers. Experts recommend that you get at least three estimates from different moving companies. Also, don’t forget to ask questions about possible hidden fees, especially if you’re considering the cheapest bid.

9. YOU FORGOT ABOUT MOVING INSURANCE

With moving insurance, there are many policies and coverage levels to choose from. Before choosing a moving company, ask about what types of coverage options are available to you and whether you need to get more than what’s being offered. This is also the time to review your homeowner's insurance policy if it offers additional moving insurance to know which works best for your move.

10. YOU FORGOT ABOUT YOUR PETS AND PLANTS

With all the other things you’re worried about, it’s unavoidable to forget the special needs of our pets and even plants when moving. Before your move, make sure your pet has current shots, tags, papers, and certificates, especially if you are moving from one state to another. Plants should be pruned and transplanted to lightweight containers, and heavy pots packed separately. When moving day comes around, make sure you budget space in your car for pet carriers and fragile plants.

Here’s some great articles for those planning long distance moves:

Moving With Your Pet (from ASPCA.org)

How to Move Long Distance with Plants (from ApartmentTherapy.com)

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