Moving Home: What if Things go Wrong?

There are dozens of things that can go wrong on the day of your move – but forewarned is forearmed.

The internet is full of moving-day horror stories, and it is unusual to hear from someone who didn't have a stressful time when they moved house.

To minimise anxiety on the day, be sure to use a good-quality removal company that is a member of the British Association of Removers (BAR), as well as preparing yourself as best you can for any eventuality. These can include the following.

Damage to your goods

If your belongings are packaged poorly or not handled with care during the move, then there is a good chance you will find many badly damaged when you come to unpack.

Large items such as furniture can often get bashed, cracked or scratched if the removal company is not careful when removing from the van or maneuvering through doorways and stairwells.

Damage to property

A collision between a doorframe and a dining table will not only damage your furniture, it could also damage your new property, leading to extra expense for redecoration.

If the collision happens on the home you are leaving, there is a high chance you will have to compensate the new owner.

Wherever it happens, though, be sure to take photographs of any new damage for insurance purposes.

Not having enough room

If you or the removal company underestimated the number of goods you own, you could end up with your move being delayed, or having to go back on another day to pick up the extra.

Not having enough packing materials could also lead to unnecessary delays. The removal company might need to skimp on packaging, which could result in further damage to your belongings. Cushions and pillows make for good packing materials, however, and you can hang on to old newspapers in the run-up to your move so you can wrap delicate ornaments.

Losing items

Although moving goods from one home to another may seem simple enough, a lot of items can still go missing. Be sure to keep an eye on your possessions at all times, and do not leave anything unattended on the street, in the garden or in the removal van.

Arriving late

If your removal company doesn’t leave itself enough time to pack up or get to your new home, you could find yourself incurring extra costs and spending the night on the floor of your new property – or even in an hotel.

Make sure everyone has the correct address, and that mobile phone numbers are exchanged before you set off.