An upsize move refers to the process of moving from a smaller home to a larger one. This could mean more square footage, additional rooms, or even a bigger yard. It’s an exciting step, but it comes with its own set of challenges. While you may have more space to fill, the complexity of the move can also increase. If you don’t take the time to plan carefully, it can quickly become overwhelming. From organizing your belongings to hiring the right movers, every decision can impact the success of your move. This article outlines common mistakes and provides tips to help you avoid them, ensuring a stress-free move to a new home.
Common Moving Mistakes During an Upsize Move
Lack of Proper Planning
One of the most common mistakes people make during any move is failing to plan appropriately. When it comes to upsizing, the temptation to assume everything will fall into place is easy to succumb to. However, without a detailed plan, you may find yourself scrambling to complete everything on time.
To avoid this mistake, create a moving checklist and timeline that covers all your tasks. Start early, ideally weeks before the move. Break down the tasks into manageable sections, from packing and hiring movers to organizing utilities and changing your address. The earlier you begin, the more time you’ll have to address any unforeseen issues that may arise.
Not Decluttering Before the Move
Even though you’re upsizing, there’s no need to bring unnecessary clutter along for the ride. A larger space can quickly become overrun with items you no longer need or use. Plus, the more you have to move, the higher your costs will be – from hiring a larger moving truck to paying for more packing materials.
Before packing, take time to declutter. Sort through your belongings and decide what you can sell, donate, or toss. Not only will this make your move more organized, but it will also save you time and money in the long run.
Hiring the Wrong Moving Company
Choosing the right moving company is crucial for a smooth upsize move. Many people overlook the importance of vetting movers and end up hiring an unreliable or unprofessional team. This mistake can lead to delays, property damage, or even loss of personal belongings.
To avoid hiring the wrong movers, do your research. Look for licensed and insured moving companies with positive reviews. A reputable moving company like Mayflower, known for its professionalism and reliability, can help ensure a stress-free experience. Ask for recommendations from friends or family and compare quotes. Ensure that you choose a company specializing in significant moves and experienced in upsizing, as they will be better equipped to handle larger volumes of furniture and boxes.
Failing to Take Accurate Measurements
One of the most frustrating moving mistakes is failing to measure the spaces in your new home. Just because your furniture fits perfectly in your old house doesn’t mean it will work in your new one. Measure doorways, staircases, and rooms to ensure your furniture fits. Failing to do so can lead to last-minute changes or, worse, furniture that doesn’t fit at all.
Before the move, please take detailed measurements of your furniture and compare them to the dimensions listed below. If you’re unsure, consider consulting with a professional to assess whether your items will fit comfortably in the new space.
Improper Packing Techniques
Packing may seem straightforward, but there’s an art to it. Using improper packing techniques can lead to damaged items, frustration, and unnecessary stress.
To pack effectively, use high-quality materials like sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, and packing tape. Avoid overpacking boxes, as this can cause them to break or become too heavy to move safely. Disassemble large furniture pieces and securely wrap them for protection. Label each box with its contents and the room to which it belongs, ensuring your movers know where to place everything.
Not Labeling Boxes Clearly
Unlabeled or poorly labeled boxes are a recipe for chaos during an upsize move. The unpacking process can become incredibly time-consuming if you have to search through multiple boxes to find your essentials.
Label all boxes clearly and consistently. Please include a description of the contents, the room it’s intended for, and any special handling instructions (e.g., fragile, heavy). You may also want to consider color-coding the boxes to differentiate between rooms easily. This makes unpacking much smoother and saves time when you need something specific.
Neglecting to Update Address and Utilities
Many people forget to update their address and utilities ahead of the move. This can lead to missed mail, late bills, or even the inconvenience of not having electricity or water in your new home on the day of your move-in.
Be sure to change your address with the post office, banks, and any other essential services before your move. Also, notify your utility providers (electric, water, gas, internet, etc.) well in advance. This will ensure everything is ready for you when you arrive at your new home.
Ignoring Moving Insurance Options
Accidents can occur during a move, and your belongings may be damaged or lost. It’s essential to consider moving insurance to cover any potential losses. While most moving companies offer basic liability coverage, it may not be enough to replace high-value items.
Ask your moving company about their insurance options, and consider purchasing additional coverage for expensive or fragile items. Even though insurance can be an extra expense, it’s worth the peace of mind knowing your belongings are protected.
Underestimating the Scale of an Upsize Move
It’s easy to underestimate the volume of belongings you need to move when upsizing. More space means more stuff, and it can quickly become overwhelming if you haven’t fully accounted for it. Misjudging the scale of your move could lead to logistical problems, additional costs, or unnecessary stress.
Take time to assess everything you’re moving and calculate how much time and effort it will take. Consider whether you need extra help, whether it’s through professional movers, friends, or family.
Attempting to Do Everything Without Help
Ultimately, attempting to handle everything yourself can be a significant mistake. Moving is a considerable undertaking, especially when downsizing or upsizing one’s living space. Relying on friends and family or trying to manage it all alone can be a recipe for burnout.
Recognize when it’s time to hire help. Professional movers, especially those with experience in upsizing moves, can help ensure a smoother, more efficient transition. If you need help with tasks like cleaning or packing, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance.
Conclusion
An upsize move is a big step, and it’s easy to make mistakes along the way. However, with careful planning and attention to detail, you can avoid common pitfalls and have a much smoother moving experience. Start early, declutter, and hire the right professionals to help. With the right approach, you can make your upsize move a success and settle into your new home with less stress.
Mariah