Sometimes in life, we discover that our expectations don’t match up to the reality, and moving is no different. If you are reading this article, you are probably thinking about moving or are in the process of moving. We want to be sure that your move is smooth and stress-free. So, we have listened to our customers and pulled together this list of moving expectations and the actual reality that some of them have faced. Here’s how to avoid making moving mistakes.
Planning
Expectation: “I’m an organized person. I will be packed and done labeling my boxes a week before the move.”
Reality: “Uh oh! The movers arrive soon, and I’m not done packing and labeling.”
We all like to think of ourselves as being 100% organized and on top of everything. However, after a busy day at work, who gets excited about going home to start packing? That is precisely why we recommend that you have at least a two- month moving plan. Eliminate the uncertainty in your move by preparing a detailed list of things to do before the move.
Budgeting
Expectation: “I will keep track of my moving expenses so that I don’t overspend.”
Reality: “Yikes! Why has my move cost three times the amount I predicted?”
It is essential to create and keep a detailed moving budget. This budget should include everything from storage costs to packing tape. Overspending is one of the main pitfalls when it comes to moving. There are many online budget templates to help your account for all your moving day costs.
Coordinating
Expectation: “I’m sure my friends will help me on moving day.”
Reality: “Oh no! The friends I thought were going to help me on moving day have all backed out.”
There is an old saying that ‘more hands make light work,’ and that is definitely true when it comes to moving. As part of your planning process, you need to coordinate with people to help with the move.
If you plan to count on friends to help with the move, make sure that you have them solidly locked in for move day. If your friends are not dependable for this enormous task, hire professional movers for peace of mind.
Settling In
Expectation: “I’ll be unpacked and settled in a day.”
Reality: “I’ve been here a month, and I’m still living out of boxes.”
While it is unlikely it will take only a day to settle into your new home, your pre-move preparation and organization will go a long way once moved. Hopefully, you culled through your clutter and brought only the things you need in the new house. In addition, you have labeled everything so that the boxes have all ended up in the proper rooms.
Try to focus on unpacking one room at a time. Avoid getting distracted by television or electronics until you have everything unpacked. Allow yourself to enjoy the unpacking process.
Enjoy Your New Home
Hopefully these suggestions about planning, budgeting, and coordinating help you prepare for your move. It also helps to chat with friends and family that have experience with moving so that you can set realistic expectations for yourself with your own move.
Remember, we’re here to help make sure that your move is quick, easy and efficient. Contact Browning Moving & Storage for help with your upcoming move.