Moving to a new home is exciting, until you realize how much work it takes to get there. Between packing, planning, and coordinating, it’s easy to make mistakes that cost you time, money, and your sanity.
The good news? We’ve got the cheat sheet you need to win. Here are the top six moving mistakes to avoid and how to make your move a success.
1. Getting Vague Estimates
One of the biggest financial traps you can fall into when moving is accepting a vague estimate from a moving company. Some companies will give you a low quote over the phone just to get your business, then surprise you with hidden fees and extra charges on moving day. These could be costs for things like stairs, long carries from the truck to your door, or fuel surcharges that were never mentioned before.
How to avoid it: Always insist on a detailed, written quote. A trustworthy company will have no problem providing a transparent breakdown of all potential costs. At Go Mini's, we provide instant, upfront quotes with no hidden fees. You’ll know exactly what you’re paying for from the get-go, which lets you budget with confidence.
2. Not Getting a Head Start
Procrastination is the enemy of a successful move. Waiting until the last minute to pack, declutter, or plan turns everything into chaos. You might end up tossing things you wanted to keep, forgetting important tasks, or having to hire expensive help at the last second.
How to avoid it: Start planning at least four to six weeks before your moving day.
- Declutter first: Go through each room and decide what to keep, donate, or get rid of.
- Pack non-essentials: Begin packing things you don’t use daily, like out-of-season clothing, books, and decorative items.
- Label everything: Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it should go in. This will make unpacking so much easier.
3. Paying for Space You Don’t Need
Traditional moving trucks often come in standard sizes that might not be the right fit for your belongings. You could end up paying for a huge truck when you only have enough items for a small one. Or, you might find yourself needing more space than you rented, which means making extra trips and wasting time.
How to avoid it: Choose a flexible solution that matches what you actually have. Go Mini's offers portable storage containers in three different lengths: 12, 16, and 20 feet. This lets you pick the perfect size for your move, so you only pay for the space you really use. You get a solution made for your home, not a one-size-fits-all approach.
4. Using Cheap or Flimsy Packing Materials
Grabbing old boxes from the grocery store or skimping on packing supplies might seem like a money-saver, but it can cost you in the long run. Flimsy boxes can break, and poor padding puts fragile items at risk. The cost of replacing broken dishes, electronics, or family heirlooms will be much higher than what you would have spent on proper supplies.
How to avoid it: Invest in quality packing materials. Buy sturdy moving boxes in different sizes, strong packing tape, and plenty of packing paper or bubble wrap.
5. Having a Rigid Timeline
Many people rent a moving truck for just one day, turning moving day into a frantic race against the clock. This pressure leads to rushed packing, potential damage to your belongings, and a ton of stress. If you run out of time, you could face late fees or have to rent the truck for another day, adding yet another unplanned expense.
How to avoid it: Give yourself the gift of flexibility. Instead of trying to cram everything into one chaotic day, Go Mini's lets you work at your own pace. We deliver the container to your home, and you can take as much time as you need to load it. When you’re all set, we’ll pick it up and transport it to your new place. This takes the pressure off and puts you in control of your moving schedule.
6. Forgetting to Check on Parking Permits
No matter what vehicle you use for your move, you’ll need a place to park it. Many cities, apartment complexes, and HOAs have regulations about where and for how long a moving vehicle or container can be placed. Not checking these rules ahead of time could lead to fines or being told to move the truck or container unexpectedly.
How to avoid it: Before your moving day, reach out to your city or property manager to ask about any necessary permits. Getting permission ahead of time ensures you have a designated, approved spot ready to go.
Make Your Next Move Your Easiest One Yet with Go Mini's
Moving doesn't have to be a stressful and expensive nightmare. By sidestepping these common mistakes, you can save yourself time, money, and a lot of frustration. And with Go Mini's, you get transparent pricing, flexible sizing, and a timeline that works for you.
Ready to plan a smarter move? We offer the support you need to make your move simple, affordable, and stress-free. Get your free quote today and let’s make it happen!
