Moving Tips & Resources

Common Myths About Moving

Whether you are moving across town, across the country, or across the ocean, who you trust to pack, unpack and transport your personal belongings matters.

It matters a lot!

And there are many misconceptions out there that can be very confusing when you are in the throes of planning your move.

Not only can moving be overwhelming and stressful, but with so much information available online, it can be difficult to know what to do and where to turn for the best advice and the most useful information.

That’s why we have created this handy guide on the most common myths (and realities) about moving. We hope it will demystify the process for you, and provide the answers that you need to help you in planning your move.

Let’s get started…

Myth #1:  It’s Much Cheaper and Easier to Move Yourself

Moving yourself isn’t necessarily cheaper, and it can be much more of a headache than you bargained for. First of all, there is much more that goes into moving than just getting some boxes, bubble wrap, tape, gathering a stack of old newspapers, renting a truck, and asking friends and family to help you.

This is a huge chore, and you know what they say: You get what you pay for!

Understanding Moving Company Estimates

When it comes to moving, you want to hire a moving company that you can trust to handle your belongings with care, and take the physical and emotional strain away from you and your family.

Myth #2:  All Moving Companies are Created Equal; Just Pick One

Simply put, all moving companies are NOT created equal. Using a reputable, professional moving company can make all the difference, so be sure and do your research.

One of the best ways to check out moving companies and compare apples to apples is by reading online reviews from past customers, and asking for referrals from people you know.

We also recommend interviewing two or three moving companies for the job. This will make it easier for you to compare pricing and services.

Not all moving companies cost the same or provide the same services, so be sure and ask plenty of questions to find the right fit for your move.

Click on the following link for our useful interview guide: Interview Guide

Myth #3:  Some Things Will Probably Get Broken or Go Missing

Many people think that having something get broken or go missing is just par for the course when moving, but this should not be accepted as a normal part of moving.

A reputable, professional moving company is one that mitigates the risk of damage and loss of all of your personal items while in their care.

So, be sure that you ask specific questions as to the professional training and safety education that a moving company requires for the people who will be handling each aspect of your move.

This includes the people who will be packing up your:

  • Belongings
  • Carrying Your Furniture
  • Driving the Truck
  • and Everything In Between

Myth #4:  No Need to Organize; Just Box Everything Up

The truth is, organization is very important, especially on the front end. The more organized and methodical you are about packing and labeling your boxes, the easier it will be for you to find and organize everything when you get ready to unload and unpack in your new location.

So, don’t underestimate the power of good organization. Be sure that you properly label all boxes to indicate what the contents are, and the room where it should be placed.

And, if there are breakable items in a box, be sure that it is clearly marked as “FRAGILE,” and “HANDLE WITH CARE.”

Myth #5:  The Most Expensive Moving Company is the Best

We think it’s fair to say that the most expensive anything isn’t necessarily the best, so why would the most expensive moving company be the best?

Again, the best way to evaluate the quality and professionalism of a moving company is through reading online reviews or by asking for recommendations.

5 Money Saving Tips

It’s true that not all moving companies will provide you with the same exact moving cost estimate, so educate yourself and make sure you know what you are paying for.

By getting quotes from two or three different moving companies, you will have a better idea as to the typical cost for your move.

But, remember to always ask a lot of questions to make sure that their prices include all of the services that you need, and that you are not paying for services that you don’t.

Myth #6:  Any Old Box Will Do

When packing and protecting your personal items, you want to make sure that you always have the proper tools and supplies.

The last thing you want to use is a flimsy box that puts your most valuable or important items at risk of damage.

moving boxes

Always use quality moving boxes, which you can get from your moving company. Using boxes specifically designed for moving will ensure that all of your items are securely packed and prepared for the move.

And when packing your boxes, make sure that you are doing so based on moving industry best practices. This will further protect your items and prepare them for transit.

For more information, including helpful moving videos, please check out our helpful moving tips and resources.

At Daryl Flood, we are always here to help, so please contact us anytime for more information!