Moving to another state can be a fresh start filled with opportunity, but it’s also a complex process that requires careful planning. Between organising transport, packing, and setting up a new home, there’s plenty of room for errors that can burn a hole in your pocket.
Understanding the most common interstate removalist mistakes to avoid will save you time, money, and unnecessary stress. Here are ten of the biggest pitfalls people face during an interstate relocation and how to avoid them.
1. Choosing a Removalist Without Proper Research
Booking the first removalist you come across especially based on the lowest quote can be a risky move. Interstate relocations require skilled handling, reliable logistics, and proper insurance.
Look for companies with proven interstate experience, check online reviews, confirm they’re licensed, and make sure they’re transparent about pricing and services. Choosing the wrong provider can result in delays, damaged goods, or even lost belongings.
2. Accepting an Estimate Without an Assessment
A quick price given over the phone might sound convenient, but without seeing what needs to be moved, it’s likely to be inaccurate. This can lead to extra charges when the truck is loaded.
Arrange for an in-home or video assessment before accepting a quote. That way, the removalist can evaluate volume, access points, and any special requirements, giving you a fair, realistic price upfront.
3. Moving Without a Solid Plan
Relocating across state lines involves a lot more than packing boxes. Without a clear timeline and checklist, it’s easy to forget essential tasks like redirecting mail, arranging utility connections, or updating registrations.
Mapping out each stage of the move keeps you in control. Lock in booking dates for the removalist, deadlines for packing, and key administrative tasks to ensure nothing is overlooked.
4. Leaving Preparations Too Late
One of the most avoidable mistakes is putting off preparation until the last few days. Interstate relocations often require booking several weeks or even months in advance, especially during busy seasons.
Packing in a rush increases the risk of breakages, overlooked items, and misplaced paperwork. Starting early allows you to be methodical and organised, avoiding that last-minute panic.
5. Underestimating the Effort of Packing
Packing is more than just filling boxes, it’s about protecting your possessions for a long journey. Poorly packed items are more likely to arrive damaged, and insurance claims can be harder to make if packing wasn’t done properly.
Use sturdy cartons, quality tape, and appropriate wrapping materials. Delicate items should be cushioned and clearly marked. For valuable or fragile belongings, consider having the removalist pack them for you.
6. Using Boxes Incorrectly
Heavy items in oversized boxes make lifting unsafe and can cause the boxes to split during transport. Moreover, half-filled boxes allow contents to shift, increasing the risk of breakage.
Keep heavy loads, like books or crockery, in small cartons, and use large ones for lighter items such as linens. Fill empty spaces with padding to keep everything secure in transit.
7. Taking Unnecessary Items With You
Transporting belongings you no longer need is one of the easiest ways to waste money during a move. Every extra box takes up space and increases costs.
Before packing, go through your home and decide what to keep, sell, donate, or discard. This not only reduces moving expenses but also makes setting up your new home much easier.
8. Forgetting to Separate Essentials
Once the truck leaves, you won’t have access to your belongings until delivery. Many people overlook setting aside the items they’ll need immediately in their new home.
Pack a separate bag with essentials such as important documents, chargers, medications, a change of clothes, and basic toiletries. Keep this with you so you’re not caught short on arrival.
9. Arriving at a Home That’s Not Ready
Turning up to find no electricity, water, or internet and a home that hasn’t been cleaned can put a major roadblock on your move.
Arrange for utilities to be connected before you arrive. If possible, have the property cleaned and inspected for any issues, like leaks or pest problems, before moving day.
10. Failing to Check Items on Delivery
After a long move, it’s tempting to sign off on the delivery as soon as the truck is unloaded. But skipping a thorough inspection can leave you in a dilemma if something is missing or damaged.
Check each box and large item as it’s brought in. Report any problems to the removalist immediately and note them on the delivery paperwork.
Conclusion:
Making Interstate Relocation Smoother
A successful interstate move comes down to preparation, organisation, and choosing the right professionals. A few extra considerations can help you avoid common headaches:
- Label clearly so boxes go to the correct rooms.
- Prepare an “open first” carton with items you’ll want right away.
- Check state transport rules for plants, pets, or restricted goods.
- Review insurance cover to ensure it matches the value of your belongings.
- Plan for possible delays from weather, traffic, or border checks.
By steering clear of these interstate removalist mistakes to avoid and approaching the process with a clear plan, you’ll not only protect your belongings but also make the move less stressful for everyone involved.
With careful planning, an interstate relocation can be an exciting and positive step, setting you up for a fresh chapter without the common moving-day dramas.
