7 Small Moving Mistakes To Avoid
Relocating from one state to another is a massive undertaking, even for small moves. There are many details to consider, from finding a new place to live to ensure all your belongings are safely packed for transport.
Many people make a common mistake of underestimating how much goes into a successful move, falsely believing that the process is less complex because they have a small move.
We've compiled a list of some of the most common moving mistakes for small movers, so you can avoid the stress and have an enjoyable and safe moving experience.
1. Procrastinating
One of the most common mistakes those with smaller moves make is procrastination. Many people wait until the last minute to call a moving company only to find they're hired months in advance, creating a nightmare scenario.
Don't put yourself in a position where you're forced to scramble to find any available moving company, opening yourself up to scams or damaged belongings. Hiring a mover specializing in small moves should be the first thing you do once you decide to relocate.
2. Underestimating The Time Needed To Pack
We often don't realize how many items we have hidden in nooks and crannies around the house, and once you start going through them, it's a huge wake-up call.
In theory, you could probably pack your home in around a week, but that would involve ignoring any other responsibilities and devoting all day and night to the process.
Please don't put yourself in a situation where it's the night before the movers are set to arrive, and you still have days worth of work ahead of you. If you allow yourself a couple of hours every day to tackle a few boxes, it will keep the process manageable and help reduce your stress level.
As a general rule of thumb, double or triple the amount of time you think you need to pack, giving yourself plenty of time to go through your belongings slowly so you don't have to rush.
3. Failing To Consider Your Moving Options
Although hiring movers is generally more expensive than doing it yourself, the extra cost is often worth the peace of mind and safety you receive in exchange. Small moves offer more moving options than their larger counterparts, so weighing them all can help you choose which is suitable for your situation.
4. Not Packing Enough Items To Keep With You
Long-distance small moves are unique because you will most likely have a few nights where you have to stay in a hotel or with a friend. Often people assume they only need what they can fit in their wallet or purse and a small overnight bag, and the rest can stay with the movers.
You'll find yourself living out of your bag for at least a few days, so consider it more equivalent to carry-on luggage than a simple overnight pack. Plan outfits and toiletries for several days to prepare for any delays you may encounter.
A few contents you should plan to include are any paperwork you may need, IDs, and essential documents. Other helpful items include:
- Medication
- Toiletries
- A few outfits
- Pet items
- Notepad with a pen
- Valuables
- Electronic chargers
- Laptop
By ensuring you have your essentials on hand, you don't have to worry about the length of time between packing and unpacking.
5. Not Considering Storage
Delays happen, so planning for them can help give you peace of mind knowing you're prepared for every scenario. The good news for small moves is that it's easier to find a local storage company since you have fewer items to store.
During your planning session, taking a few minutes to research storage options in your new location is an easy way to help you prepare for the unexpected.
6. Not Choosing Long Distance Movers
When you have fewer items to transport, it's easy to underestimate the labor involved in a long-distance move. You most likely need to pack and load on a specific day, drive to the new location, and unload, which could be challenging without professional help.
Even if you have friends or family who volunteer to help, it creates an unnecessary risk of injury unless they are familiar with the process. Long-distance movers know how to pack and unpack your items safely, so you can focus on other aspects like saying goodbye to friends or landing the perfect job!
7. Hiring Movers That Are Unreliable
Now that you've decided to hire movers, choosing reliable ones with specific experience with long-distance moves is vital. One of the biggest mistakes small movers make is selecting a disreputable company without the knowledge or standing to accomplish the job effectively.
Unfortunately, many people have found themselves with fraudulent movers who lure them in by giving a low price quote that is too good to be accurate and refusing to return the items until a higher price than the original quote is paid.
Don't risk finding yourself in this situation, be sure to thoroughly research the movers you choose to ensure they are reliable and honest. A few critical areas to consider include:
- Is the company insured?
- How long have they been in business?
- Do they have customer reviews?
- Are they upfront about their prices?
You can also vet your movers through the Better Business Bureau and the American Moving and Storage Association for an extra level of security.
When relocating, don't choose just any moving company; Ship Smart specializes in small long-distance moves and the challenges that accompany them. Our packing and shipping experts will wrap your furniture and box your belongings, ensuring it arrives at the destination safely, giving you peace of mind.
We offer our customers many insurance options and unmatched customer service, along with our unbeatable prices creating an enjoyable and stress-free experience. With three options to choose from, we have a service to fit every moving need, including:
- Will-Call
- Curbside Delivery
- Full Service
If you're ready for your next adventure, turn to Ship Smart to ensure your small move goes smoothly; Call (866) 333-8018 or use our small move calculator to get started!
