Moving can be a stressful experience. From heavy lifting to an endless sea of boxes, there are good reasons many people don’t enjoy moving independently. However, paying someone can be costly, and you may worry about their treatment of your belongings.
Because of the cost of movers, many people opt to take on the task of moving rather than paying. But before doing so, there are some crucial factors you need to consider. From insurance coverage to packing supplies, here’s what you need to know if you’re DIY moving.
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The Do’s of DIY Moving
If you’re going to move, doing things in the easiest way possible can make the process smoother. Here are some tips for what you should do if you’re moving.
Consider Buying Insurance if You Rent a Truck
Likely, you don’t own a vehicle large enough to move all your belongings. This is why many people choose to rent trucks such as U-Hauls. You’ll likely consider the size you need and how much the total mileage may cost.
But have you thought about rental truck insurance? Having insurance coverage is essential if you plan to drive the truck yourself. Accidents can happen, no matter how careful you’re driving or how short a distance you’re traveling.
Though your car insurance may offer some coverage, it’s a good idea to look into more coverage options in case of an accident. Your standard coverage will likely only cover damages to other vehicles involved, so purchasing temporary coverage can save you from paying other expenses out of pocket.
While you’re checking with your car insurance company about rental truck insurance, it’s also a good idea to check on any changes to your car insurance because of your move, especially if you’re moving out of state.
Pack and Organize Ahead of Time
Scrambling to pack at the last minute can leave you feeling overwhelmed and stressed. Although it may be tempting to avoid packing up your belongings until you actually move, it isn’t the best choice.
When you begin packing early, you give yourself plenty of time to organize your belongings by their new location, making your unpacking process more manageable. While organizing, you can easily make an essentials box for your most essential belongings.
An essentials box allows you to avoid the headache of digging through multiple boxes trying to find one particular item. These boxes should contain things like dishes, silverware, bathroom essentials, and bedding to make your first night easier.
The Don’ts of DIY Moving
Some things may be easy to skip while moving. But there are some corners you shouldn’t cut. Here’s what not to do if you’re DIY moving.
Don’t Skimp on Packing Supplies
It may be tempting to purchase cheaper supplies to pack your belongings in. However, there’s a good chance you’re packing items that are priceless to you. Cheap supplies can offer little protection against the harsh movement your belongings will likely be subjected to.
Between picking up and setting down, bouncing around the back of a truck, and potential drops, your precious items should be as secure as possible to avoid breaking. Purchasing proper moving supplies such as bubble wrap, heavy-duty packing tape, and durable boxes can help you avoid anything getting ruined during your move.
Don’t Avoid Asking for Help
DIY moving doesn’t mean you have to do it all yourself. Asking family members or friends to assist you can make the process much smoother and easier for you. Many of the items you’re moving may be extremely heavy, making it difficult to lift them alone.
Enlisting the help of loved ones can ease some of the strain, not only on your body but your mind as well. Having assistance makes the process quicker, allowing you to settle into your new home sooner.
Tips for DIY Moving
While moving can be stressful, many people opt to do it themselves rather than pay a moving company. Paying others can be extremely costly and may result in less-than-perfect care of your belongings.
DIY moving allows you to keep tabs on all your items, move at your own pace, and save money. However, there are some things you shouldn’t do while moving, like purchasing cheap packing supplies or avoiding asking for help.
On the plus side, checking out insurance options and packing ahead of time can help make your moving process go much smoother.
Alexandra Arcand writes and researches for the insurance comparison site, TheTruthAboutInsurance.com. She is an insurance expert and experienced DIY mover who enjoys sharing her knowledge with others.
