Moving is hard. And sometimes, things happen. Couches are big, and doorways are tight. Sometimes, bookshelves are heavy, and stairways are steep. It might seem like the best option is to try, and hope for the best. And sometimes, it works out. Some couches sent flying over deck railings live to sit another day. But some couches don’t.

Some couches are just wide, or just tall enough that it seems impossible to think you’ll ever get them inside. Some bookshelves are just too much for one person to handle. It was for these circumstances precisely that some northern Virginia moving company — *ahem* Craig Van Lines — was founded so many decades ago.

Take a lesson from the experts: Don’t move this way.

He’s okay! But the bookshelf might not be.

Joanna can’t help you. But Craig Van Lines can!

You get the picture. But you’ll have to pay for it.

Save yourself, your time, and your furniture.

Moving to a new home is exciting but can be full of potential pitfalls. Here are some other common mistakes to avoid:

1. Underestimating Time and Effort Needed

Mistake: Many people underestimate the time it takes to pack, clean, and organize a move.
Solution: Start early, ideally a few months before the move, and follow a schedule.

2. Not Decluttering Before Packing

Mistake: Packing everything without purging unnecessary items leads to more work and higher moving costs.
Solution: Sort and declutter each room before packing; donate, sell, or discard what you no longer need.

3. Choosing the Wrong Moving Company

Mistake: Picking movers based solely on cost can lead to damaged items, delays, or even scams.
Solution: Research and read reviews to ensure the company is reputable, insured, and fits your needs. (Read our Guild Quality Reviews)

4. Forgetting to Label Boxes

Mistake: Unlabeled boxes make unpacking chaotic and frustrating.
Solution: Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to, and mark fragile items.

5. Not Packing an Essentials Box

Mistake: Forgetting to set aside necessities can make the first night difficult.
Solution: Pack a box or bag with essentials like toiletries, bedding, medications, basic kitchen items, and important documents.

6. Ignoring Measurements and Layout

Mistake: Assuming all furniture will fit can result in frustration if items don’t fit through doors or in rooms.
Solution: Measure doorways, stairways, and rooms to ensure furniture and appliances will fit.

7. Forgetting to Change Your Address in Time

Mistake: Missing mail, packages, or bills due to not updating your address.
Solution: Update your address with the postal service, banks, subscriptions, and other relevant parties.

8. Overlooking Utility Set-Up

Mistake: Moving in without heat, water, or internet can be inconvenient or even stressful.
Solution: Arrange for utility connections and transfers to be completed by your move-in date.

9. Neglecting Home Security and Safety Checks

Mistake: Moving in without checking or updating locks, alarms, and smoke detectors.
Solution: Change locks, test smoke alarms, and consider adding security measures before moving in.

10. Not Budgeting for Extra Costs

Mistake: Assuming the move will only cost the moving company fee.
Solution: Budget for hidden costs like packing materials, tips, meals, gas, and any extra services (cleaning, handyman help, etc.).

11. Rushing to Set Up Everything Immediately

Mistake: Feeling pressured to fully decorate and set up on the first day.
Solution: Take your time unpacking and settling in to avoid unnecessary stress and overspending.

By planning carefully and staying organized, you can avoid these common mistakes and make the move as smooth as possible!

Leave the moving to the experienced professionals.

Through four generations, the Craig family has provided quality moving and storage services. Whether you’re looking for a mover in Alexandria, VA or anywhere throughout Northern Virginia, DC and Maryland, we can help. We are recognized as one of the leading moving companies in the metropolitan area. From local to long distance, our commitment to personalized moving services for residential and commercial relocation is unmatched in the industry.

A Few Lessons In… How Not to Move