Welcome to Nashville, Tennessee, a city with a lively spirit, a rich culinary scene, and a laid-back charm that's hard to resist. It's no wonder that everyone seems to be moving here! Whether you're planning a local move within Middle Tennessee or eyeing the Nashville area for your next journey, the road ahead is sure to be filled with excitement. But let's face it... when it comes to the move itself, that excitement can quickly turn into stress! We encounter a lot of folks who try to move themselves, which means we also see many of the mistakes people make. We get it; opting for a moving company might seem like an extra expense for a local move. While it's possible to move on a budget, let's delve into the most frequent mistakes we come across!
Procrastination
Imagine this: the moving date is looming, and you find yourself in a frenzy, hastily packing items into poorly prepared boxes, inevitably leading to forgotten essentials and utter chaos. The culprit? Procrastination. Avoid this pitfall by planning your move at least 2-4 weeks in advance, creating a task list, and setting deadlines. If you're feeling overwhelmed, consider professional packers and movers (like us) to ease the burden.
Forgetting to Declutter
One man's trash is another man's treasure, but during a move, unnecessary items can be a burden. Failure to declutter means packing and storing items you no longer need, resulting in additional expenses for more boxes and supplies. To dodge this bullet, take the time to sort through your belongings before packing. Create a 'donate,' 'sell,' or 'discard' pile to lighten your load. Trust us; it's a win-win—you save money, and someone else finds a treasure.
Not Packing a "Survival Kit"
Moving is exhausting, and the last thing you want to do after a long day is to hunt for basic necessities in a sea of boxes. Packing a "survival kit" for your first days in your new home can make all the difference. Include essentials like a change of clothes, toiletries, medications, water, snacks, important documents, and basic cleaning supplies. You'll thank yourself when you're sipping a well-deserved coffee while others rummage through boxes.
Shortage of Packing Supplies
Underestimating the number of boxes and packing supplies required is a recipe for disaster. To ensure your belongings remain safe during transit, it's crucial to have an adequate supply of bubble wrap, tape, packing paper, and various-sized boxes. Overstuffing boxes is a no-no, as it can lead to damaged items and unnecessarily heavy loads.
Not Labeling Boxes
Labeling boxes by room or category may seem like an extra step, but it can save you countless hours during unpacking. Invest in a few Sharpie markers and ensure each box is clearly labeled, making the transition to your new home smoother and more organized. Your movers will appreciate this too!
Forgetting to Prepare Your Refrigerator
It's a common oversight. Failing to prepare your refrigerator can lead to unwanted spills and damage during the move. Take these steps to ensure a hassle-free transition:
Empty and clean the refrigerator thoroughly.
Remove shelves and pack them separately.
Unplug and defrost the fridge at least 24 hours before moving.
Clear the water tray and leave the door open to prevent odors.
Choosing the Wrong-Sized Truck
Picking the wrong-sized truck can lead to unnecessary delays. A truck that's too small results in multiple trips, while an overly large one wastes both space and money. Accurately estimate your space requirements, and consider hiring professionals like Moving Van who can recommend the ideal truck size.
Improperly Loading the Truck
One of the most common mistakes we see is the improper loading of a moving truck. This can lead to serious issues - most notably damage to your furniture and belongings, but also the risk of injury during the unloading process. If you're not confident that you can safely and properly load the truck yourself, consider hiring a professional mover to ease the burden.
Lifting Heavy Items
Proper lifting techniques are extremely important when it comes to avoiding personal injury or damage to your belongings. Don't bite off more than you can chew! Invest in lifting aids like hand carts and dollies, or better yet, hire professionals who are trained to handle heavy items safely.
Forgetting About Utilities
Maybe it’s not directly related to packing and moving, but if you forget to transfer your utilities, you may end up paying a ton more for unused electricity and water at your old home. And if you forget to have the utilities connected at the new place, you’ll likely be sitting in the dark. Set a reminder to handle these issues at the appropriate times during your transition!
While tackling a DIY move might feel like you're pushing a boulder up a hill, it's not impossible to accomplish. But, if you’re still overwhelmed by the idea of moving yourself, give Moving Van a call! We know how to pack, carry, and load your belongings so they remain safe. Whether you’re planning for a local move or transition long-distance, we’re here to help. Call (615) 537-9580 to get started!
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