Moving is a big adventure, even if you feel relatively prepared. But it’s possible you’re making one of these major mistakes. They’re actually fairly common, but they can add a lot of stress to a time when you’re already drowning in it.
1. Keeping Kids and Pets Around
Kids and pets are wonderful, but let’s face it when it comes to moving house, the last thing you need to be doing is running after a toddler who is determined to reopen all your boxes. Pets can be just as bad, particularly since they’ll already be anxious from all the changes occurring.
Your best option is to have someone else look after your pets and children at their home. This gives you time to finish up the last minute details and ensure the removals company gets off. Then you can unpack the basics and get things set up at your new home before you bring more chaos in.
If you’re moving long-distance, it can be a good idea to have grandparents or a sitter keep the kids and pets until you’re ready to move. Then take them directly to the new house. Another option is for parents to split up and one parent stays behind with the kids while the other heads to the new home to get things set up a bit first.
2. Leaving Everything Until the Last Minute
Packing can be done gradually over months, as can decluttering and cleaning. Unfortunately, many people leave all of this until the last minute, which makes for panicked packing and haphazard clearing of the house.
To avoid this chaotic end to your stay in the house, make a checklist a few months prior to moving. This should include getting the supplies you need and packing a certain amount each month so you just have the absolute necessities to pack in the last few days. This makes it much simpler to finish packing and moving.
3. Not creating a Budget
Moving can get quite expensive if you don’t plan ahead. Make sure you know how much you can budget for your move and then determine what your priorities are. It’s not just the removals company you have to budget for. You need to consider:
- Eating takeaway for a couple of nights while things are packed
- Boxes and other packing supplies
- Cleaning supplies or a cleaning service
- Extra rubbish fees (depending on your area)
- Babysitting or pet-sitting fees
- Insurance
By planning for these things several months ahead, you can set aside the money to make your move easier.
A good plan for a move is the best way to ensure it all goes smoothly. If you need some help with your move, contact Essex Removals for a quote on our removals services.
