To help your move go smoothly, we offer these 10 common pitfalls we hope you can avoid.
- Failing to research your mover: If you hire a moving company thoroughly research them by checking Better Business Bureau and ensure they are licensed by your States Department of Transportation.
- Avoid spending too much on packing: Boxes and newspaper are easy to come by, and often free of charge. Spend a little extra time prepping to save money on packaging. Ask friends and relatives for storage bins they are not using and return them when done.
- Packing heavy items in big boxes: Heavy items should be treated like large items and be packaged by themselves, your back will thank you later.
- Forgetting to take measurements: Know ahead of time if there will be any problems getting an item through the front door.
- Packing flammable, explosive or corrosive materials: You’ll be in violation of the law and put yourself and your movers in danger.
- Losing your Bill of Laden: Bill of Laden is a contract between you and your movers, this is essential if any problems arise so keep with care.
- Leaving boxes blank: Some people are uncomfortable writing items contained with in the box so they don’t record anything on them instead try numbering your boxes or bins and create a list that tells you what is inside each numbered box.
- Taking taxes too lightly: There are specific guidelines as to which move-related items are tax-deductible and which aren’t. Make sure to check out the IRS website in advance of your move, and keep all relevant receipts.
- Disrespect movers: Make sure to introduce yourself to everyone on your moving crew and have refreshments at the ready. Making a good impression could protect your belongings over the long haul.
- Forgetting to Change Address: Very important and in most cases be handled ahead of time, let your bills, company you work for, drivers license, voter ID, & post office know of your new address.