5 Costly Moving Mistakes That Can Make Your Move More Expensive

Moving to a new home should be exciting, but for many people, it turns into an unexpected headache and a much higher bill than planned. Most of the time, it’s not bad luck. It’s small, avoidable mistakes made before moving day.

If you’re planning a move in Ottawa or nearby areas, here are the five most common moving mistakes that cost people time, money, and nerves, and how you can avoid them.

Mistake #1: Choosing the Cheapest Quote Without Asking Questions

It’s tempting to go with the lowest price, but with moving services, cheap often becomes expensive later.

Many ultra-low quotes don’t include:

• Travel time
• Fuel charges
• Stairs or long-carry fees
• Packing or disassembly

These costs show up on moving day, when it’s too late to change movers.

How to avoid it:
Ask for a detailed quote and confirm exactly what is included. A transparent estimate upfront is usually cheaper in the long run.

Mistake #2: Underestimating the Size of Your Move

One of the most common issues movers see is clients underestimating how much they own. A move that looks like a “small one-bedroom” can quickly turn into:

• A second trip
• Extra hours
• A larger truck

All of which increase the final cost.

How to avoid it:
Get a professional volume estimate. Many moving companies offer this for free and it helps plan the right truck and crew size.

Mistake #3: Booking the Wrong Moving Day

Not all moving days cost the same. Prices and availability change depending on:

• End of the month
• Weekends
• Peak season (spring & summer)

Booking late for a high-demand day often means higher rates or limited availability.

How to avoid it:
If possible, choose a weekday or mid-month date and book early. You’ll often save money and get more flexible scheduling.

Mistake #4: Not Preparing Before Movers Arrive

When movers arrive and items aren’t ready, the clock keeps ticking. Delays like:

• Unpacked boxes
• Furniture not cleared
• No elevator reservation

can easily add extra hours to your move.

How to avoid it:
Have everything packed and labeled before moving day, and reserve elevators or parking in advance.

Mistake #5: Not Confirming Insurance and Experience

Accidents are rare, but they can happen. Hiring movers without proper insurance or experience can lead to damaged items and no coverage.

How to avoid it:
Always confirm that your movers are licensed, insured, and experienced with your type of move (apartment, house, long-distance, etc.).

How to Avoid All 5 Mistakes at Once

The easiest way to avoid these issues is to start with a free, professional moving estimate. A proper estimate helps you:

• Understand real costs upfront
• Choose the right truck and crew
• Avoid hidden fees and delays

If you’re planning a move in Ottawa or the surrounding area, getting an estimate early can save you hundreds of dollars and a lot of stress.

📞 Contact us today for a free, no-obligation estimate and move with confidence.

Planning your move? Read more tips on our blog to make your moving day smooth, affordable, and stress-free.

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