Moving house is often an exciting time that opens a new chapter in our lives. However, this process can also be a source of stress and frustration, especially when not planned properly. Here are some of the most common mistakes people make when moving house, and practical tips on how to avoid them..
Lack of proper planning
Many people delay planning a move until the last minute, leading to chaos and unnecessary stress.
Solution: Start planning your move at least a few weeks, preferably months, in advance. Create a detailed list of tasks, including due dates. This will allow you to manage your time and responsibilities more smoothly.
Incorrect packaging
Packing without a system can result in damaged items, important items being lost or boxes being over-packed, making them difficult to carry.
Solution: Label each box, describing its contents and the room it is to go into. Use appropriate packing materials, such as bubble wrap for fragile items. Remember to pack heavier items at the bottom and lighter items at the top.
Underestimation of removal costs
People often forget to include all the costs associated with moving, leading to unpleasant financial surprises.
Solution: Develop a budget that includes all costs such as hiring a removal company, fuel charges, insurance and other unforeseen expenses. Compare quotes from different removal companies to find the best quality at an affordable price.
Ignoring the need for insurance
Many people assume that nothing bad will happen during a removals and overlook the issue of insurance.
Solution: Invest in insurance to cover potential damage or loss of your property. This is a small cost compared to the value of your items.
Failure to secure fragile objects
Fragile items such as glassware, porcelain or electronic equipment are often packed carelessly, increasing the risk of damage.
Solution: Every fragile item should be carefully packed and properly protected. Consider using special boxes or packaging for particularly valuable or sensitive items.
Removal of unnecessary items
Moving things you don’t use or need only increases the cost and complicates the move.
Solution: Before you move, go through your belongings carefully and decide what is really worth taking. Consider selling, donating to charity or simply throwing away unnecessary items.
Incorrect time estimation
Overestimating one’s ability to complete a move quickly often leads to haste and mistakes.
Solution: Be realistic about the time it takes to move. Allow extra time for contingencies and don’t rush things too much.
Detailed planning of the move
Advanced planning is essential to avoid the many pitfalls of moving house. It is worth creating a schedule with tasks for each week leading up to the day of the removals, which may include.
Choice of removal date
Choose a day when both you and helpers can fully commit to the move. Avoid days when there may be other important commitments.
Booking of removal services
Book your removal company and other necessary services, such as cleaning old and new premises, well in advance.
Service management
Remember to transfer or cancel your utilities and internet services within the relevant deadlines.
Techniques for effective packaging
Packing is one of the most time-consuming aspects of moving house, but the right techniques can make the process much easier.
Systematic packaging
Start with infrequently used items and continue towards daily used items. Leave the items you will need until the last minute before and just after the move for last.
Packing room by room
This makes it easier to organise and unpack in a new location.
Special packaging
Investing in good quality packing materials, especially for fragile items, can prevent many problems.
A realistic moving budget
Drawing up an accurate budget helps to avoid financial surprises. It is worth taking into account:
- costs of moving company: always check exactly what is included.
- additional charges: sometimes, depending on the situation, there may be additional costs, such as long handling of items or packing;
- contingency reserve: it is always a good idea to have a small reserve for unexpected expenses.
Final checks and preparations for the move
Immediately before the move, it is worth carrying out a number of final checks:
- Inventory: make sure everything is properly packed, labelled and ready for transport;
- checking the new place: check that the new flat is ready to receive your belongings, including whether all key services are available;
- Plan B: It is always a good idea to have a contingency plan in case of unexpected problems, such as bad weather.
Planning an international move
Following these tips and dedicating sufficient time to planning and preparation can significantly reduce the stress levels associated with moving and help avoid common mistakes.
