Should You Pack It Yourself or Entrust It To Movers?
Obviously, most of us can pack up a box and fill it with various types of content, but when relocating, it’s not a matter of whether we can DIY, but rather should DIY be an option when professional movers are available to take care of this job instead? Relocating is a big job for even a small household. It is an event that oftentimes includes many unexpected nuisances that further add to the complications of moving. So that leaves many to ponder the thought of leaving the packing to the pros, along with the rest of their moving job. Should you follow in their footsteps?
Weigh the Pros & Cons
A myriad of pros and cons exist with both DIY and professional packing services. Some people are more comfortable packing their own belongings while others prefer the expertise that professionals offer them. It really comes down to personal preferences. Consider carefully the pros and the cons of DIY versus hiring someone else to do the job to determine which option is best for your situation. You may discover a few things along the way as you compare the pros and the cons of your decision.
DIY pros include:
- Control the pace of the move
- Know exactly where your items are located
- Save money
- Save time
DIY cons
DIY disadvantages include a much longer list than the advantages, as many people who are relocating have learned throughout the years. Among the disadvantages of DIY packing include:
- Overload boxes
- Injure yourself moving boxes
- Choose weak boxes that break or crumble
- Accidents
- No inventory
- Waste time
- Insufficiently pack/more boxes
- Run out of boxes and/or packing supplies
Hiring a mover
Many professional packers are specially trained to pack boxes the right way. They can pack a little or they can pack a lot. With their expertise on the job, you feel assured that things are done the right way. Advantages of hiring a professional packer include:
Pros:
- Professionally packed boxes are never overloaded
- Quality boxes
- Get an inventory list of your items
- Safety and no risk of injuring yourself
- Save time/ tend to other tasks
- Get your items packed and stored at a self-storage facility
- Professionals know the proper packing techniques to prevent property damage
Cons:
- You won’t see the items being put into boxes
- There are costs involved with hiring a professional
Storage Units as Alternatives
Moving can be a challenging and overwhelming task for many reasons. Apart from the usual hassles of packing and stuff, you may find that the home or apartment you’re moving to is not big enough to accommodate your current possessions. Additionally, there are those possessions that you don’t want to keep moving with, or they’re too sensitive or delicate to be subjected to the hassles involved in relocating. If you ever find yourself in such a situation, storage units could be the best solution for you.
The good thing about storage units is that they’re available in different sizes and configurations from which you can choose according to your preferences. For instance, Ryan Campbell from Moishe’s Self Storage says that a 4 x 4 storage unit is the ideal size for storing sentimental keepsakes or seasonal items. If you opt to rent a storage unit for your household items, do keep this information in mind. Also, self-storage units basically give you a room to put your stuff and you get to keep the keys, meaning that you can walk in and check your stuff out anytime. The other good thing is that security is provided full-time, meaning that you don’t have to worry about losing your dear belongings.
To Hire or Not to Hire: That is the Question
Most people agree that professional packers are worth the small expense, since the benefits they offer considerably outweigh the disadvantages. However, this varies for every person and every situation, so it is important to take the time to do your homework to learn if it is beneficial for your needs. Relocating is certainly a big job. When professionals are there to ease some of the work, you’ll certainly appreciate life in your new home a whole lot more.