Last-Minute Packing

Beginning to pack 2-3 days before your move? No. Packing several weeks before the big move? YES. Packing is something you don't want to do at the very last minute. You can end up being disorganized, lose your possessions, and have a hard time unpacking when you get to your new home. Be realistic and allow enough time for packing. If you give yourself a short amount, this will result in stress and pressure that could have been avoided if you were to pack early.

Not Being Able to Declutter

Packing and unpacking will be so much easier if you declutter things you don't use. Decluttering is one of the most effective ways to keep moving stress-free and helps the process become quick and easy. It also helps you focus on the possessions you value the most, reducing the feeling of being overwhelmed. One of the rules of decluttering is sorting your valuables into three different boxes: (1) Donate, (2) Sell, (3) Throw, and (4) Keep. Donate items that are still usable but don't suit you or your lifestyle anymore, sell your items online, and get to earn extra cash that will help you as you move. Throw items that cannot be used anymore and donate items that aren't worth selling are still in good condition that can be used.

Organizing Without a Checklist

Creating a moving checklist is often forgotten or not thought about by most people. A checklist will help you pack efficiently and effectively. Create a schedule; the time and days where you'll work on either packing your valuables or calling a mover to help you out will greatly affect your moving process in a good way. Follow a well-planned checklist that will keep you on track throughout your journey.

Moving Things It Would Be Cheaper to Rebuy

If the family couch has seen better days or your mattress is due for replacement, consider donating or throwing them away before you go. Large, bulky furniture can often be replaced for not too much more than the cost of moving it. Many mattress companies ship now, meaning your new mattress can be conveniently delivered when you arrive.

The cost advantage of repurchasing items becomes even more apparent if homeowners will store items between the old house and the new. Other candidates for replacement during a move include particle-board shelves and entertainment centers, older TVs, and canned foods. 

Packing Without a Plan

Packing is surely a time and energy-consuming task, especially if you are doing it all on your own. As mentioned in our previous tip, a checklist will tremendously help when it comes to planning. Aside from that, customized specific planning needs will guide you in the process. You can either begin working on areas you don't visit or use the most or begin within the hardest, populated areas in your home. Pack in advance everything you won't use until the moving day, such as seasonal outfits, holiday decorations, collectibles, and anything alike.

Not Exploring Ways to Cut Costs

Survive moving without going broke. It all goes back to creating a plan, a budget, and sticking to it. This is very much ideal if you've recently purchased a home where there could be more extra costs after you move in. The process of moving can get expensive as it gets. Take into account that moving costs can increase, which is why some moving companies only give estimates. Buying boxes used for storing your items for moving is also a heavy packing expense, but it doesn't have to be. There are cardboard boxes that you can find for free! Start your search from your friends, colleagues, neighbors, or take a look at small local shops, retail stores, and supermarkets. If boxes from these places aren't free, you can get them for a much lower price instead!

Not Checking on Insurance

You've decided to hire movers to help you with your move. Now one of them dropped the boxes of your most precious valuables, causing it to break! Ever thought about who'll be paying for it? If your mover doesn't have insurance, no one will pay for it. Before hiring movers, check on their insurance. Discuss insurance coverage options with your chosen moving company. Don't forget to check in with your home insurance provider to see what is covered.

Preparing Your Household

Moving with kids or a large household can be challenging, and there may be physical and emotional exhaustion during the moving process. A helpful tip to reduce stress is talking to your household members and planning along with them. Organizing will also significantly reduce stress among everyone in the household. Children can easily be attached to their home, friends, and memories in the area, making moving difficult. Manage this emotional process by taking the time to talk to help which can also be helpful for them to understand opportunities in every move.

Have too many belongings, but don't want to get rid of them all? Check out this list of the top storage unit facilities in Austin.

We hope these moving tips help you move to Austin or relocate to a different state. If you're planning to relocate within the city of Austin, speak to one of our consultants by starting a live chat or fill out the form below! We'll get in touch with you as soon as possible. For the ultimate guide to relocating to Austin, check out our comprehensive Moving to Austin Checklist.