Moving locally can seem like a straightforward task compared to long-distance relocations. However, renters often make several mistakes that can complicate the process. While a local move might feel less intense, it still requires careful planning. According to Zillow, about 73% of renters who moved in 2024 stayed within the same metropolitan area, demonstrating that local moves are incredibly common. By understanding the mistakes that renters make and how to avoid them, you can ensure that your local move is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Underestimating the Time Required for a Local Move

Many renters assume that moving locally will be quick and easy, but they underestimate the time it takes to plan and execute the move. Local moves are still time-consuming, requiring careful organization. Renters often think they can simply pack up in a day and be ready to go, but without proper planning, this can lead to a rushed and stressful experience.

One of the most common issues renters face is not leaving enough time to properly pack. Local movers recommend starting the packing process well in advance. The last thing you want is to find yourself trying to pack everything into boxes the night before the move. A good rule of thumb is to start packing up non-essentials a few weeks before moving day. Make sure to create a timeline that includes packing, hiring movers, and taking care of utility transfers. That way, you won’t find yourself scrambling at the last minute.

Rnters often forget about the logistics of transportation, even for a local move. It’s crucial to arrange for the right vehicle or hire professional local movers ahead of time. Failing to secure a suitable truck can lead to delays or added stress on moving day. The key to avoiding transportation delays is planning ahead—make sure you’ve arranged for everything you need before moving day arrives.

Failing to Declutter Before Packing

A major mistake renters make when moving locally is failing to declutter before packing. Moving is the perfect opportunity to get rid of items that no longer serve you. If you don’t take the time to declutter, you’re only increasing the amount of stuff you have to pack, move, and unpack, which can add unnecessary costs and time to the process.

By decluttering before packing, you’ll not only save on moving expenses but also make the unpacking process smoother. Extra items mean larger trucks, more boxes, and more time spent moving. Instead of simply boxing up everything, take the time to evaluate what you really need and what can be donated, sold, or thrown away. This will make your move much more manageable and less expensive, especially if you’re working with local movers.

Effective decluttering involves sorting your belongings into categories: keep, donate, sell, and discard. Renters who approach decluttering systematically will find that it’s less overwhelming. Set aside a few days to go through each room in your home, making decisions about what should stay and what should go. If you’re feeling sentimental about certain items, take photos or create a memory box instead of keeping everything. This will help you minimize emotional attachments and prevent decision paralysis.

Overlooking the Importance of Insurance

Many renters overlook the importance of insurance when moving locally. While it might seem unnecessary, renter’s insurance provides protection for your belongings in case of damage or loss during the move. Insurance is especially important when you’re moving valuable items, such as electronics or heirlooms, as even local movers can encounter unexpected issues that result in damaged or lost items.

Having proper insurance coverage in place gives you peace of mind during the moving process. While standard renter’s insurance may cover your belongings, it’s important to verify that it includes coverage for your items while they’re in transit. If it doesn’t, consider looking into additional moving-specific coverage, either through your moving company or a separate policy. In the event that something goes wrong, having insurance can save you a significant amount of money and stress.

The risks of moving without insurance are clear: if your belongings are damaged, lost, or stolen, you could be left with significant financial losses. Many renters assume that their items will be safe just because they’re moving locally, but accidents can happen. That’s why it’s important to consider the value of your possessions and invest in insurance that covers them during the move.

Neglecting to Research Moving Companies or Options

Choosing the right moving company is one of the most important aspects of a successful local move. Failing to do your research can result in poor service, hidden fees, or even damage to your belongings. It's tempting to simply hire the first local movers you find, but this can be a costly mistake.

Take the time to read reviews, check references, and compare prices from multiple moving companies. Look for companies that are properly licensed and insured to ensure you're hiring reliable professionals. Also, consider whether the moving company offers additional services, such as packing or storage, which can be a valuable time-saver during your move.

Another common mistake is waiting until the last minute to book your moving company. If you wait too long, you may find that the company you want to hire is unavailable or that prices have gone up due to demand. Booking early ensures that you get the best rates and have more flexibility when scheduling your move. It also gives you time to ask the company any questions you may have about their services and policies.

Misunderstanding Lease Agreements and Responsibilities

Many renters make the mistake of not thoroughly reviewing their lease agreements before moving out. Whether you’re moving locally or long-distance, understanding your lease terms is essential to avoiding problems with your landlord or property manager.

The most common issue renters face is misunderstanding the notice requirements. Most leases require renters to give a 30- to 60-day notice before moving out, and failing to do so can result in penalties, including forfeiture of your security deposit. Make sure to review your lease and provide the necessary notice in writing to avoid any complications.

Another aspect to consider is the condition of the property when you move out. Many leases include clauses about cleaning and repairs that renters must complete before they leave. Failure to meet these expectations could result in deductions from your security deposit. Take the time to thoroughly clean the property and make any necessary repairs before you move out. This will increase the chances of getting your full deposit back.

Failing to Set Up and Transfer Utilities Properly

One of the most overlooked aspects of moving locally is coordinating utility transfers. Ensuring that your utilities are set up at the new place before you arrive is essential for a smooth transition. It’s important to contact your utility providers well in advance to schedule disconnection and new service setup. Poor planning can result in delays, leaving you without essential services like electricity, water, or internet when you move in.

To avoid this issue, set up your utilities at least two weeks before your move. This ensures that your new place is ready when you arrive. Additionally, be mindful of the timing to avoid overlaps in utility billing. You don’t want to pay for services you no longer need at your old place, nor do you want to arrive at your new home without essential services in place.

Moving locally still requires careful planning and attention to detail. By avoiding these common mistakes—underestimating time requirements, neglecting to declutter, overlooking insurance, and failing to research movers—you can ensure that your move is stress-free. Whether you’re moving across the street or to the next neighborhood, the right preparation and help from Burkhardt Brothers Moving & Storage will make all the difference.