When a DIY Move is a Bad Idea

Considering a DIY move? While taking on your relocation yourself can same you some money, it also requires a lot more time, hard work, and planning.  Some circumstances are not ideal candidates for a DIY move--read on to find out if it will be the right move for you.

You have a large home

If you have a four or five-bedroom home, you will have significantly more items and furniture to pack and load. If you are handling all of the moving tasks yourself, you will have to dedicate a large portion of your time to your move. Full-service movers can pack up and load the entire contents of a large home in one day--a process that could take you months to complete.

You have a lot of difficult items
If your moving inventory consists of many fragile breakables, delicate glassware, china, artwork, antiques or other difficult items, professional assistance is important to avoid damage. Professional movers have the highest quality supplies and are trained in the most efficient packing methods to protect these belongings. Specialty items like pool tables, grandfather clocks, and pianos require proper disassembly and extra care for transport to ensure their delicate inner workings and mechanisms are not disturbed. Attempting to relocate these items on your own could cause costly damage exceeding any money you saved with a DIY move.

You're moving cross-country
If you are moving long-distance, a DIY move is less economical and more inconvenient. It may be more affordable than hiring movers, but the savings are less worthwhile when you consider the inconvenience. Rental truck agencies charge per mile traveled (usually about $1 a mile), and you are responsible for fuel costs. Savings are not as significant for a long distance DIY move, and may not be worth the hassle of driving a cumbersome moving truck for days on end.

You have minimal free time
When you're moving, there are many items on your to-do list--a DIY move only increases your tasks. You will have to pack all of your belongings, but load all of the boxes, lug your heavy furniture and appliances to the truck, and possibly take time off work to drive the truck to your new home. If you are a full-time professional, have kids, or various outside commitments, a DIY move may not be suited to your busy schedule.

You have no one to help
Do you live alone with a lack of available friends and family nearby? While it is known as a "do-it-yourself" move, handling the process all by yourself can be difficult. Carrying heavy items often requires at least one helper, especially when going down stairs or lifting them into the truck. Improper lifting, carrying and loading techniques can result in severe injury and serious damage to your items.

You are not comfortable maneuvering a large vehicle
Are you accustomed to driving a sports car or compact vehicle? Have you ever been behind the wheel of a large truck? Driving a rental truck is not a easy, and if you are not comfortable, it can be dangerous. The truck will also be weighed down with the contents of your home, making steering and handling the vehicle even more difficult. Improper maneuvering of the truck can create a safety hazard and cause damage to your goods during transit.

So--when is a DIY move a good idea?

• Your move is local. If you are moving within the same city or to a nearby region, renting a truck is an affordable option. Your move can easily be completed in one day, and your mileage charges will be low. 
• You have a small home. If you live in a small house, condo or apartment, you will have a manageable load to transport. It will take less time to pack up and load the truck, so you can complete the job quickly without taking time off work.
• You have a lot of helpers. Do you have a lot of strong friends that owe you a favour? A big family to pitch in? A DIY move can be a cinch with a large group of people lending a hand.

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