Many people dread the process of moving—and there’s good reason why. If you’ve ever done a DIY move, you know how difficult it can be to round up a crew of friends, pack your life into dozens of boxes and load a rental truck you’ve never driven before. The process can take several weeks and even affect your mental and emotional well-being.
Whether you live in a studio apartment or a four-bedroom house, anyone contemplating DIY moving should know the potential pitfalls. After all, preparation is key.
Not Doing Proper Research
Unfortunately, moving isn’t a one-day, instant process. It’s easy to fall into the trap of imagining that moving companies are like ride-sharing companies. But unlike Uber or Lyft, you can’t request help at the push of a button and expect a full crew and clean moving van to show up in minutes. And the cost of a DIY move can be much higher than you expect.
A time and money-saving tip is to be patient and research companies that fit your needs and budget. To have the best moving experience, you should decide on a moving company as far in advance as possible. Take the time to browse reviews and read testimonials to secure a reputable moving company that won’t go rogue.
Wheaton, for example, has compassionate agents who help you make reservations for your moving date. We’ve handled hundreds of moves and use our resources to help you execute the job with peace of mind.
Skimping on Packing Supplies
Packing up your life into moving boxes is anything but easy. Before filling the first box, you’ll have to declutter, donate unused items and figure out what you’re taking to the new house. Even once you’ve inventoried, you might need some tips on the best way to pack for a move.
For starters, packing dishes and other fragile items in regular boxes is a quick way to arrive with shattered glass and broken ceramics. Worthwhile movers not only have experience packing up every kind of item in any kind of room, but they also provide the right materials if you do want to take on the job.
Wheaton stocks just about any kind of packing supplies, including boxes, protective materials, tape, pens, labels and more. They have your back, whether you’re moving yourself or letting professionals do all the packing and unloading.
Gambling on the Wrong Vehicle
Understandably, not everyone knows how to contract the necessary moving vehicle on their own. But without having expert assistance, you run the risk of renting the wrong truck size—and adding more problems to the day.
DIY movers might try to cut moving costs by renting a truck that’s too small to fit all of their home furnishings or for too little time, thinking the job will be quick. Others may rent a truck that’s too big, making it difficult to drive and park. They could also be unaware that a bigger truck requires more gas and toll charges.
If you’ve never managed DIY moving before or you don’t have experience with van or truck rentals, that’s OK. A qualified moving company like Wheaton won’t let you make these mistakes. They’ll take care of the truck coordination for you; no estimating necessary.
Assuming a Truck Driving Role
No matter how well you drive the family car, it’s tough to anticipate and navigate the constant highway challenges during a cross-country move. Even if you’ve made an interstate journey in a car or SUV, it’s not the same experience as driving a large truck and trailer.
Some rental trucks and trailers are noisy, not well-maintained or lacking air conditioning or radios. You must also remember that there are some bridges, train trestles and parking lots that a heavy truck can’t pass through.
Experienced movers know the ins and outs of cross-country travel. They communicate with other trucks and stay connected to keep current on highway conditions, construction and accidents. They know the safe routes that won’t involve moving violations and have more experience driving longer distances.
Is it better to use professional home movers? Well, flying to your new home or traveling in a separate, comfortable car is a good way to prevent the exhaustion of driving an unfamiliar moving truck. Wheaton’s moving crew has the expertise and experience to handle interstate and local moves, so you can save yourself the stress of moving yourself.
Relying Too Much on Friends
If you have a list of friends who are willing and ready to tackle your move, you’re lucky indeed. Pizza and brownies make a great thank you!
Then again, many people struggle to find friends who are available and strong enough to hoist furniture and boxes on moving day. It’s exhausting work that involves skills and tools that some people don’t have, including navigating sofas and large beds down stairs and around corners.
Using your friends on moving day also has risks. Someone could get seriously injured by all the heavy lifting. When you hire a reputable company, the moving crews are licensed, insured and bonded. You get professional, experienced movers who guarantee a quality job—and know how to get the sofa through the door.
Make Wheaton Your Moving Partner
If you’re still contemplating the cost of a DIY move, know that there are risks and challenges of moving by yourself that professional movers can solve. Contact Wheaton World Wide Moving and get a free estimate for a worry-free relocation, whether you’ve got a local or long-distance move. We’re happy to answer your questions about creating a pitfall- and hassle-free moving experience for you and your household or business.
