Most Common Moving Mistakes - Tips to consider

Most Common Moving Mistakes

Moving can be one of the more exciting phases of our lives, especially if you are moving to the Vancouver or surrounding area! Whether you are relocating to a different residence in the same area or to a different city or province altogether, moving is both an exciting and arduous process. There are literally thousands of meticulous steps that can be taken to ensure the smoothest possible transition. However, taking each step is overkill and it is best to take a more subtle approach and prioritize. Due to the deluge of moving information, tips, blogs, YouTube videos etc, sometimes it’s best to know what not to do in preparation for a move.

Nine Weeks Before

1. Failing to do adequate research.

By this time you should really be sifting through the web and all of its valuable information regarding any queries you may have about moving. 

2. Hoarding.

Use it or lose it! There is no need to keep old stuff that you will no longer have use for. Old possessions can be easily replaced. If you are overloaded with trash, there are multiple junk removal services that can help you get rid of your trash fast!

3. Not making copies of important records.

Due to the chaos that can be moving homes. It’s highly recommended that you make copies of any important archives that you may have such as medical records, financial statements, birth certificates, and school records.  

Six Weeks Before

4. Not ordering supplies in advance.

By ordering all the bubble wrap and boxes in advance you will be able to cross one more task off your list making things just a little less stressful as moving day approaches.

5. Wasting food.

Limit the groceries. There are exceedingly high chances that your freezer holds a lot of food that you may not have been aware about. Try to clean out the pantry and freezer one meal at a time.

6. Not keeping a detailed expense record.

Moving is expensive! Some employers will provide relocation packages that may help cover the cost of moving. Whether it be a flat rate or percentage, make sure to pay extra close attention to your expenditures. 

Three Weeks Before

7. Not booking a high quality moving company in advance.

Moving companies tend to be the busiest during the beginning and end of the month so if your moving day is planned around one of these time frames make sure to book well in advance!

8. Failing to notify important parties.

Obviously you may want to let your utility, cable, and water provider know that you will be relocating and/or no longer needing their services. In addition, it is important to notify banks, schools, and any emergency contact of your upcoming move.

9. Not separating the “valuables.”

Any type of valuable that is easily transported and has significant value should be accounted for and transported personally with you. 

One Week Before

10. Not refiling important medications.

Better be safe than sorry on this one. 

11. Not packing a personal suitcase.

Sometimes your belongings will become shuffled in the fray of moving. Thus, having a personal suitcase is absolutely essential to the process. 

12. Not confirming with the moving company.

For a high quality moving company it would be rather unlikely for them to either forget or omit your reservation, save an unforeseen emergency. Therefore it would be best to double check just to be safe. 

One Day Before

13. Not defrosting the freezer.

This is one of the more common mistakes that can be made during any move and it can be a time delaying, therefore costly nuisance as movers are typically hired by the hour. 

14. Being unprepared for the movers.

It’s considered kosher to provide at least 10% tip and as they are lifting heavy objects around it would be nice to have some refreshments for them. 

15. Not taking inventory again.

Channel your inner accountant. The more meticulous you are, the greater the probability that you will be able to have a successful move and not leave anything behind!

Good Luck!