There’s a lot that goes into ensuring your move is successful. You have to coordinate logistics, say goodbye to your old home and trying to imagine life in your new one. When you finally decide to bite the bullet and hire professionals for house removals, you’re hoping to ease the burden, not add to it. The idea is to hand over the heavy lifting (literally) and let the experts do their thing.
Unfortunately, even with pros on board, you can accidentally make a few blunders that may turn a smooth transition into a bumpy ride. Want to avoid those common pitfalls and ensure your moving day goes off without a hitch? Keep reading.
1. Not Being Properly Prepared
A recent industry report found that almost 38% of moving delays are caused by customer-related issues, mostly lack of preparation, unclear instructions, and last-minute scrambling.
Many people assume that once movers arrive, the hard work is over. Unfortunately, that belief often leads to:
- Higher hourly charges
- Delays during loading
- Misplaced or damaged items
- Frustrated movers (and a frustrated you)
Even the most efficient house movers in Sydney can’t work quickly if they’re dealing with half-packed boxes and cluttered rooms.
What Proper Preparation Should Look Like
- Pack everything fully: No open boxes. No loose items.
- Label clearly: Use room names and “fragile” tags where needed.
- Disassemble what you can: Beds, frames, modular shelves, etc.
- Create a “Do Not Move” zone: Medicines, documents, laptops, kids’ essentials.
- Clear pathways: Make sure movers can access everything easily.
2. Underestimating the Power of Communication
Movers are professionals: not mind-readers. Poor communication can cause:
- Items going to the wrong rooms
- Fragile belongings handled incorrectly
- Unnecessary loading delays
- Extra charges from misdirection
How to Communicate Effectively With Your Movers
Here’s a simple guide to make moving-day communication smoother:
- Nominate one decision-maker
Avoid conflicting instructions by having one person handle all communication. - Walk-through briefing
Before loading begins, take the foreman through your home and highlight: - delicate items
- awkward furniture
- boxes destined for storage
- Use room markers or a floor plan
A4 sheets labelled “Master Bedroom”, “Study”, “Kids’ Room”, etc. will help movers place boxes correctly and eliminate guesswork. - Discuss access and parking beforehand
It may seem minor, but it can save 20–40 minutes of downtime.
3. Failing to Document Your Belongings
Skipping documentation is risky and can cost you dearly.
A Simple Inventory Checklist
Focus on items that matter most:
- TVs, computers, and other electronics
- Artwork and decorative pieces
- Antique furniture
- Jewellery or high-value items (these should travel with you)
Use Photos and Videos
A quick video walk-through of your furniture and valuables takes less than 10 minutes and provides:
- Proof of condition
- Proof of ownership
- Clarity when filing an insurance claim
How to Set Yourself Up for a Smooth Moving Day
- 48 Hours Before
- Finish all packing
- Confirm arrival time with the moving company
- Prepare your “first night essentials” box
- 24 Hours Before
- Do a final room sweep
- Charge all devices
- Prepare snacks, water, and kids’ essentials
- Moving Day
- Clear entryways
- Keep pets and kids safely out of the way
- Guide movers as needed, but don’t micromanage
Summing Up
Setting up your new home to receive your belongings smoothly is just as important as getting them out of the old one. A little preparation will ensure you avoid these common mistakes that many people make when moving.
