Moving into a new home can be chaotic, stressful, and is often attended by emotional implications. You might be moving out of your parents’ house, starting a new job, or seeking a fresh start after going through a rough patch in your life.
During such an emotional time, making rational decisions might not come as easily to you. Still, it’s essential to remain grounded during the moving process. Be sure to stay on top of planning, budgeting, packing, and various housekeeping tasks.
One thing that makes this entire planning process even more challenging is the myriad of myths surrounding packing and moving. This article will discuss and debunk some of these myths while giving you better moving tips to make this process as stress-free as possible!
Myth #1: You Will Save Money by Moving on Your Own
We’ve all romanticized the notion of grabbing a couple of buddies to help us pack and move in exchange for a few boxes of pizza and a 12-pack. This might look cool in sitcoms, but it’s hardly practical in real life.
While you might be enticed by the idea of not paying upfront costs to moving companies, there are a lot of hidden costs to moving all by yourself:
- Gas costs
- Lodging costs (if moving cross-country)
- Truck/van rental fees
- Miscellaneous moving items (dollys, straps, pads, etc.)
- Extra insurance on the rental vehicle and for items in transit
- Packing materials (boxes, tape, labelling material)
You’ll also have to reimburse your good-natured friends and family members who agreed to help you move. After all, your hardworking movers will also require water and snacks throughout the day since moving is not easy work!
When these costs add up, you might find yourself paying as much or even more than you would have had you paid for professional moving services, except you don’t get to enjoy the extra security and expertise that moving companies provide.
Myth #2: All Moving Companies Are the Same
Moving companies are not all created equal.
Some will be licensed and insured, while others have yet to take that extra step to protect themselves and their customers. Some will offer varying rates, special packages, packing services, while some won’t. Some will have been in the business for years and have glowing reviews, and some will be considered newbies in the industry.
Due diligence is important when searching for a moving company. Read reviews (not just on the company site, either!), and ask friends for personal recommendations. When you’ve shortlisted your top choices, be sure to ask for quotes and onsite visits from each company. This will give you a sense of how they interact with their prospective customers and how knowledgeable they are about the services they offer.
Myth #3: The Cheapest Moving Company Is the Best
If you get a quote that seems too good to be true, it likely is. Reputable moving companies will provide a rate that they feel is fair for the quality service they provide. Any company willing to sell themselves short just to get a job often brings trouble for you and your belongings.
Some unscrupulous companies may offer attractive rates only to spring last-minute fees on you while deploying troublesome or lazy employees or showing poor business practices, poor planning skills, and carelessness towards your prized belongings.
Honest moving companies will provide a quote that covers all moving costs without any hidden fees or surprises. You may pay more, but at least you will get quality service and can rest assured that your belongings are safe, which is priceless!
Moving Soon? Call Our Experts at Simple Moves Today!
Our Vancouver-based team at Simple Moves knows that the vast number of myths surrounding moving can make the process that much more overwhelming.
We’re here to make it easy. We offer long-distance moving, local moving, cleaning, and storage services, all for your convenience.
Are you planning a big move soon? Give us a call at (604) 210-4117 or fill out our convenient contact form so we can get in touch with you.
