10 Mistakes to Avoid When Moving

Moving can be stressful. Make your moving experience go smoothly with these 10 common tips.

1. Not knowing your movers

Make sure you research your moving company before signing any contracts. Are the movers licensed by the state’s Department of Transportation? Have you examined their record with the Better Business Bureau? Did you check their references? Simple information like this could really make a difference.

2. Wasting too much on packing

Don’t spend too much money on boxes. If you go to your local furniture store and ask if they have empty boxes they’ll most likely give them to you for free. Boxes and newspaper are easy to come by, and often free of charge. Spend a little extra time searching to save money on packaging.

3. Packing bulky items in huge boxes

To make things easier, the heaviest things should always go in the smallest possible boxes. Your back, shoulders, and legs will definitely thank you later.

4. Forgetting to take measurements

Before moving make sure you measure the door clearance. You don’t want to get to your new home only to find that your furniture won’t fit through the front door or go up the stairway.

5. Packing flammable, explosive or corrosive items

Be smart. Don’t violate the law and put yourself and your movers in danger.

6. Misplacing your “Bill of Lading”

This is one of the most common. The bill of lading is the contract between you and your movers. It is important to reference it if any problems arise along or during the way, so treat it with care.

7. Not labeling boxes properly

Make sure you label your boxes correctly. A good idea would be Include handling instructions, information on the box’s contents, and where it’s going to go to your new house.

8. Not taking taxes seriously

This is a big NO. 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 important receipts and documents.

9. Being rude to your movers

Be polite. 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.

10. Forgetting to change your address

Do research online like Google and make sure your address is up to date with the post office

Moving is not easy even if you are moving to a new place or because you can’t afford the rent anymore. Whatever the reason is moving to a new home is a hassle. Doing your homework early in the moving stages will help speed up the process. Hopefully with the tips that Local Records Office has for you will make things easier. Make sure you get some friends to help and tip them $40 for the work. If your friends are not available hire professional movers and not people you find in the parking lot of Home Depot to try to save money.