Moving to a new home is an exciting milestone, but without proper planning, it can quickly become overwhelming. Edmonton’s unique climate, peak moving seasons, and logistical challenges add extra complexity to the process.
Many homeowners make common mistakes that lead to unnecessary stress, delays, and financial losses. To help you avoid these pitfalls, we’ve compiled a list of the top mistakes people make when moving to Edmonton—and how to prevent them.
1. Not Booking Movers Early
It’s easy to underestimate how quickly moving companies in Edmonton get booked, especially during busy times like summer or month-end. Waiting until the last minute can leave you with limited options and higher costs or even force you to settle for movers with questionable reputations.
How to Avoid It
- Book your movers at least 4-6 weeks to lock in your preferred date and avoid the last-minute scramble.
- Opt for a weekday move during peak season. You’ll have better availability and lower rates.
- Start comparing moving companies early to find the best service, reliability, and cost combination.
2. Underestimating Moving Costs
Focusing only on the base moving rate can lead to underestimating the actual moving cost in Edmonton. Additional expenses—like packing supplies, moving insurance, and labor fees for oversized or heavy items—often get overlooked but can quickly strain your budget.
How to Avoid It
- Request a detailed estimate from your moving company, covering all potential fees.
- Don’t forget to account for extra costs, such as packing materials, truck rental, and insurance.
- Set aside a contingency fund for unexpected expenses, like storage or additional labor.
3. Not Decluttering Before Packing
Skipping the decluttering process before moving and packing can lead to unnecessary work and higher moving costs. If you end up moving items you no longer need or use, you’ll increase the volume of your belongings, making the move more time-consuming and expensive.
How to Avoid It
- Take time to sort through your belongings—donate, sell, or discard things that no longer serve a purpose.
- Reduce the number of boxes you need to pack. Fewer boxes mean less packing time and lower moving expenses.
- Start decluttering at least a month before your move. This gives you ample time to make thoughtful decisions and avoid last-minute stress.
4. Using Low-Quality Packing Materials
Choosing cheap or weak packing supplies increases the risk of damaged belongings during the move. Packing Fragile items requires proper protection to withstand transit safely, especially when dealing with long-distance or high-volume moves.
How to Avoid It
- Invest in high-quality moving boxes, bubble wrap, and strong packing tape to secure items.
- Properly label boxes and add extra cushioning for fragile belongings to prevent breakage.
- Consider professional packing services for valuable or delicate items to ensure maximum protection.
5. Ignoring Weather Considerations
Edmonton’s weather can be unpredictable, especially during winter. Snow, ice, and rain can create hazardous conditions that make your move more complicated and unsafe.
How to Avoid It
- If you’re moving in winter, make sure to clear pathways of snow and ice to avoid accidents.
- Use plastic covers to protect your furniture from moisture during transit.
- Dress appropriately for the weather and wear slip-resistant shoes to stay safe during the move.
6. Not Measuring Doorways and Furniture
A typical moving mistake when planning a move in Edmonton is forgetting to measure your furniture and doorways. This can cause delays and damage items when trying to fit large pieces into tight spaces, making your move anything but stress-free.
How to Avoid It
- Measure doorways, hallways, and your largest furniture pieces well before moving day. This will save you time and prevent any last-minute headaches.
- Disassemble bulky items when necessary to make transportation easier and more efficient. Long-distance movers in Edmonton can assist with this if needed.
- Keep tools handy to quickly remove doors or detach furniture parts if required. Being prepared will ensure your move goes smoothly, with no unexpected hurdles.
7. Forgetting to Update Address & Utilities
Forgetting to update your address before moving to Edmonton is a common mistake that can lead to missed mail and service disruptions. Many overlook notifying essential service providers, which can cause unnecessary hassles during moving.
How to Avoid It
- Update your address with banks, government agencies, and utility companies well before your move. This ensures everything is sorted before the big day.
- Arrange for the transfer or setup of essential services like internet, electricity, and water before your move-in date to avoid delays.
- Use Canada Post’s address change service to forward your mail to your new address, ensuring you don’t miss any critical communications during your move.
8. Not Having a Moving Day Essentials Bag
A typical moving mistake when planning a move in Edmonton is packing essential items away with the rest of your belongings. This makes them hard to find when you need them most on moving days, creating unnecessary stress.
How to Avoid It
- Pack a bag with toiletries, medications, chargers, snacks, and essential documents. Keep this bag separate from your other boxes to ensure it’s easily accessible.
- Keep the essentials bag with you instead of loading it onto the moving truck. This way, you’ll have everything you need right at hand.
- If you have pets or children, include their essentials in the bag to ensure a smooth transition into your new home.
9. Choosing the Cheapest Movers Without Research
Choosing the cheapest moving service without researching the company can lead to poor service, hidden fees, or scams. People make a common mistake when moving to Edmonton, which can quickly derail your stress-free move.
How to Avoid It
- Always verify the moving company’s license and insurance, and check customer reviews to ensure you’re working with reputable movers in Edmonton.
- Get a written contract that clearly outlines all costs and the services included in your move, which helps you avoid unexpected charges.
- Be wary of movers in Edmonton who ask for large upfront payments or have vague pricing structures. Research the best movers in Edmonton to find a trustworthy option that fits your budget.
The Importance of Hiring a Professional Moving Company
Hiring a professional moving company ensures your move is smooth, efficient, and stress-free. With the complexity of planning, packing, and transporting your belongings, professionals bring the expertise to handle these tasks carefully and precisely.
Why It Matters:
- Expertise & Efficiency: Professional movers have the skills to manage all aspects of the move, including packing delicate items, organizing the logistics, and avoiding common mistakes. Their experience ensures everything runs on time, making your transition less stressful.
- Proper Equipment & Tools: A professional moving company is equipped with the right materials—like sturdy boxes, blankets, and dollies—making it easier and safer to transport your belongings, especially heavy or bulky items.
- Time-Saving: A team of experts can complete a move in a fraction of the time it would take to handle it yourself. They efficiently load and unload your items, giving you more time to focus on settling into your new home.
- Reduced Risk of Damage: Professional movers know how to handle fragile or valuable items, minimizing the risk of breakage or damage during the move. Their training ensures your belongings are securely packed and transported.
While there are many moving companies, choosing a professional team that prioritizes your needs and provides personalized care is key. At ASR Moving, we specialize in family-oriented moves, offering comprehensive moving services, from packing to unpacking, to ensure your experience is as stress-free and seamless as possible.
Make Your Move Easy and Stress-Free with ASR Moving
Moving doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By avoiding these common moving mistakes and partnering with professionals, you can enjoy a seamless and stress-free transition. If you’re looking for trusted, efficient movers in Edmonton, ASR Moving is here to make your move easy and hassle-free. Contact us today for a free quote and let our experienced team handle the details so you can focus on settling into your new home!
FAQ’s
What are the best times of year to move in Edmonton?
The best times to move to Edmonton are typically spring and fall when the weather is milder. Moving during these seasons can help you avoid extreme temperatures, whether it’s the cold of winter or the intense heat of summer. Additionally, moving outside peak season may offer more availability and lower rates from moving companies.
Should I tip my moving company?
Yes, tipping your movers is a thoughtful way to show appreciation for their hard work. The amount typically depends on the complexity of the move, the number of movers, and the overall satisfaction with the service. On average, 10-15% of the total cost of the move is a fair amount, or a flat tip of $20-$50 per mover.
What happens if my moving company damages my belongings during the move?
Most professional moving companies, including ASR Moving, provide moving insurance that covers damages to your belongings. Discuss the insurance policy terms with your moving company beforehand and understand what is covered. If an item is damaged, report it immediately to the company for proper claims handling.
