Moving house is stressful. It’s even worse when things go wrong. So, below, we are going to take a look at what you can do to avoid some of the most common moving mistakes and make things easier for yourself.
1. The Infamous Packing Panic
Packing panic is a classic, and probably the most common, moving mistake we make. One minute you are sitting chilling out after a hard day of work and the next you are jumping up worrying if you have forgotten to pack that all-important folder of photos or stressing because you think you’ve packed your passport and you are going to need it for that job interview next week.
The good news is, starting your packing early, and creating a packing plan where you start by packing the stuff you need least often first, and ticking everything off s you pack it, is all you need to do to avoid this one.
2. Hiring Questionable Movers
Choosing a moving company based solely on the fact they offered you a bargain price can sometimes lead to bargain service. The solution? Do your homework. Read reviews, ask for recommendations from friends, and get everything in writing to choose the best movers. Remember, if your movers start asking you for directions to your new home or how to pack a box, you might be in for a long day.
3. The ‘It’ll Fit’ Syndrome
Whether it’s trying to squeeze a sofa through a doorway or a box spring up a spiral staircase, the ‘it’ll fit’ syndrome affects the best of us. Luckily, you can get around it and stop it from foiling you on moving day by simply measuring any bulky furniture you have and the entrances to your new home, so that there are no nasty surprises and no sawing the couch in half, come move day.
4. Sentimental Item Slip-Ups
If you have sentimental items that it would really hurt you to lose, instead of packing them in the moving boxes that are going into the van, try to bring them with you to your new home yourself instead. This will mean they’re less likely to get lost and you won’t spend all moving day worrying about them either.
5. Forgetting the Essentials Box
After a long day of moving, the last thing you want is to tear through boxes looking for your toothbrush. Pack an essentials box. Include everything you need for the first night: toiletries, pyjamas, coffee supplies, chargers, and maybe even some celebratory biscuits. Keep this box with you during the move so it doesn’t get swallowed into the moving truck abyss.
6. Ignoring the Admin
Updating your address isn’t just about avoiding awkward encounters with the new occupants of your old home you know! It’s really vital that you do it sooner, rather than later, so that your life can keep plodding along as smoothly as it ever did. So, be sure to make a list of everyone you need to tell about your move, from banks to utility providers and send out a mass email ASAP.
7. Pets and Plants Pandemonium
Moving with pets or plants adds an extra layer of challenge. For pets, ensure they’re safe and comfortable: think quiet rooms away from the chaos or even a day away with a trusted friend. Plants can be trickier than you think, especially if you’re moving in hot or cold weather. Wrap them to protect from temperature extremes and give them a good water before you go.
8. Forgetting to Clean
Leaving your old place in a mess might be tempting, especially if you’re running behind schedule, but cleaning is crucial. You could lose part of your deposit if you’re renting, and it’s just good karma to leave a clean space for the next occupants. Schedule enough time for a thorough clean, or hire professional cleaners to do a final sweep.
9. Document Everything
When you’re packing up for your move, it’s a really good idea to take photos of everything expensive or irreplaceable that is going into those boxes. That way, if you need to prove that they have been lost or damaged, it will be as simple as producing the snaps. No arguing back and forth!
10. Secure Your Data
In the digital age, protecting your electronic data during a move is as crucial as securing your physical belongings. Back up all computers, tablets, and smartphones. Consider using cloud services or external hard drives for important documents and photos. This way, even if your devices are misplaced or damaged during the move, your digital life remains intact and readily accessible.
11. Utility Check
One common oversight is not arranging the setup of essential utilities at your new home before you arrive. Imagine arriving at your new place, ready to relax, only to find there’s no electricity, water, or worse—internet! A week or so before moving day, call ahead to transfer or set up utilities so that your new home is fully functional when you get there.
12. Neighbourly Greetings
Introducing yourself to your new neighbours can do more than just foster good community relationships—it can also be beneficial for practical reasons. Your neighbours, if you have a good relationship with them, can be the ones who let you know what day the bins get emptied, which people on the street are likely to moan at you if your shrubs get a bit out of control, and of course, let you know all of the best cafes and shops in the vicinity. You need them, so say hello as soon as you can, and settling in will become much easier.
13. Underestimating Moving Day
Moving day is like running a marathon; it’s a test of both physical and mental endurance. Start early, stay hydrated, and wear comfortable clothing. Most importantly, keep a sense of humour. Something will likely go wrong, but with the right mindset, it’ll just be part of the adventure.
14. Neglecting to Say Goodbye
Amidst the chaos of the boxes and bubble wrap, it’s a really good idea to take the time to say goodbye to your old home have a walk around, let yourself feel what you are feeling, and give yourself the closure you need. This will help you to move on and prepare for the next chapter of your life in a new home.
Moving house is probably always going to be stressful, but now you know how to navigate the most common mistakes, it should be a bit easier on you and your family!
