Common Moving Mistakes to Avoid

Moving to a new home is an exhilarating yet stressful experience, no matter if you’re moving a few streets over or across the state. But a new home is a new opportunity to make memories with your loved ones, whether you’re downsizing or buying your dream home.

A smooth move is possible. Here are the most common mistakes people make while moving and how to avoid them.

Passing on Planning Ahead

Don’t wait till the last minute. If you’re not sure where to start, lean on a moving checklist to help you decide when to do what. Your checklist should include key dates, a packing schedule, and important contact information.

Choosing the Wrong Movers

Selecting the right company can make or (literally) break your move. Moving scams are becoming more common. The average victim reported losing $836 to a moving scam in 2023, according to Better Business Bureau and HireAHelper data. Keep an eye out for these potential red flags when booking a moving company:

• A suspiciously low quote. Some companies will give a low quote to retain customers but hold their belongings until more money is paid. Get and compare quotes from several companies before deciding.
• Lack of an online presence. Check the company’s website and read Google reviews from past customers. Even the most mom-and-pop moving company should have some online presence.
• No contract. A reputable company should provide you with a moving contract outlining the services they plan to provide as well as the cost for the services.
• No insurance. A legitimate, trustworthy company should have insurance coverage to protect your items. Interstate movers must offer two different liability options: full value protection and released value, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Full value protection pays an item’s current market replacement value, replacement with a comparable item, or repair. Released value coverage (or basic carrier liability) pays up to 60 cents per pound for an item. Talk to your Agent about your options if you’re looking for coverage outside of what the moving company offers. Options such as a floater policy and special perils contents coverage may help, according to the Insurance Information Institute.

Not Decluttering

The more you keep, the more there is to move. The more you move, the more expensive it can be. Take time to declutter your home before you start packing. Start small by going from room to room, creating four piles: keep, donate, sell, and discard. Your new space will thank you.

Haphazardly Packing

Take inventory of what you have to pack and what you may need. Don’t overload your boxes, and make sure that breakable items have the cushioning they need for a safe ride. Also, take time to label each box with an overview of its contents and what room it should go in.

Forgoing a Backup Plan

Even the best-laid plans need a plan B. Sometimes, factors out of our control, such as traffic delays and weather, can throw a wrench in your moving day schedule. Building extra time into your itinerary can give you a little breathing room.

Other Moving ‘Musts’

Moving can morph into a flurried hurry. Be prepared by adding these tasks to your moving checklist:

• Change your address with the post office; forward your mail to your new address.
• Manage your utilities. Set up electric and internet service at your new home and discontinue service at your old address.
• Transfer your family’s prescriptions to a new pharmacy if you’re moving further away from your current one.
• Organize your records (e.g., passports; licenses; medical, financial, and legal records). You’ll want to keep these items close on moving day.
• Pack a kit to keep with you. Include water, snacks, medications, phone and laptop chargers, flashlights, and a first-aid kit.

While it might seem like yet another thing to add to your checklist, moving is a great time to schedule a 360 Review with your Agent — once you’re settled, of course. Your Agent will go over your insurance policies, taking any new life events (such as moving) into consideration. It’s a great way to update your insurance information while filling any coverage gaps.

Moving is an exciting time with the promise of a fresh start. Know what questions to ask your real estate agent before closing on a new home.

Coverage and discounts are subject to qualifications and policy terms and may vary by situation.