Take hassle out of move to a new home

AT some stage in their lifetime, most people will experience moving from one home to another at least once.

While for some it might be a relatively easy process with few or no issues, for others, the experience could have them wanting to avoid moving again for the rest of their lives.

Adrian Goslett, the CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa, says regardless of whether it’s to another suburb or clear across the country, moving can be a stressful experience.

However, he notes that if movers avoid a few key mistakes, the process can be less daunting and a far smoother process.

Hiring an unreliable moving company may take some time, but using a less than upstanding moving company can be avoided by doing some research.

Goslett says ideally, the best way to select a moving company is through a referral from a friend or family member who has used them before.

“Although no two moving experiences are the same, using a moving company that has been referred by a trusted source ensures you know they do a good job,” says Goslett.

“If there is no one who can provide you with the details of a reliable service provider, there is a wealth of knowledge available through the internet and public information.

“Most companies will have websites that list their services, service history, areas they operate in and a rough estimate as to how much it will cost.”

He notes that the online searches are great for compiling information and making a list of possible choices. An additional advantage of looking at websites is that they should provide contact information, which allows you to ask questions and obtain a written response.

Beware of any companies who do not provide a local address or information about licensing or insurance.

“Another avenue to explore is social media, which provides an excellent platform to gain information about a credible, professional mover. Social media allows consumers to provide their honest opinions and share valuable knowledge, which points back to finding a referral from someone who has already used a moving company and been extremely happy with their service,” says Goslett.

Only getting one quote

As with most services and transactions, shopping around for more than one quote will provide you with a better idea of whether or not you are getting good value for money from your moving company. Contact several providers and get quotes in writing.

“During this process it is important to remember that it is very difficult for a moving company to provide an accurate estimate over the phone without conducting an on-site inventory of the goods.

“The moving company must be prepared to come to the home to provide a written quote,” advises Goslett.

“If they insist that a contract be signed or that a deposit must be paid before they are willing to provide a quote, rather keep on looking around.”

Packing too much stuff

Before or during the packing process, decide what you want to keep and what can be thrown away. “As a general rule, if you haven’t worn, seen or used the item during the past year, then you probably don’t need it.

“Think hard about whether you want to keep these possibly unnecessary items.

“Evaluating your possessions before you move will ensure only the items you want and need are moved to your new home,” says Goslett.

Failing to schedule your move well in advance

Preparation is the key to a smooth and hassle-free move, so ensure you have enough time to prepare, rather than leaving it to the last minute and rushing to get everything done.

“Make sure the move is scheduled weeks or even months in advance to give yourself some breathing room and allow yourself time to get everything packed, organised and ready to go,” says Goslett.

Not packing ahead of time

The best way to relieve some of the pressure is to start packing well before the moving date. Start by boxing items that are not used on a regular basis, which can be packed ahead of time and put out of the way.

“Anything that is not essential up until the day of the move should be packed and ready to go. This will give the homeowner a good indication as to how much more needs to be packed and it will save them a great deal of time. If the move is happening in the warmer months, pack away winter clothes and heavy jackets, and duplicate items can be pared down to only the bare essentials,” says Goslett.

He concludes by saying while moving can be a stressful exercise, avoiding the above mistakes and being prepared can make it a far more bearable event.

Knowing that you are as organised as possible to make the move as smooth as possible can make it an exciting experience to look forward to.