Moving into a new house–whether it’s just down the street or in another state–is always an ordeal. There’s a lot to keep track of, and one oversight could cost you a lot of time and money. One of the worst parts about moving is how long it can take. Anything that drags out the process can seem like a massive hurdle. If you want to make your move as easy as possible, watch out for some of these common causes of delays when moving.

Procrastination

Sometimes, we really are our own worst enemies. There’s no doubt about it; the moving process is rarely a fun time. If you end up leaving everything until later, you’ll eventually have to scramble around trying to finish everything before the day arrives. That’s why it’s so important to have a solid moving plan in place. Create a reasonable schedule of tasks with the days by which you need to complete each one. You can avoid the worst of this problem with a little bit of forethought.

Unreliable Movers

The chances are high that you won’t be able to move everything you own in one or two cars. That’s why hiring movers is often the best option. However, you must choose your movers carefully, as not all of them offer the same quality of service. You don’t just want someone to haul your furniture away quickly; you want them to do it in a way that is safe and doesn’t cause damage along the way. More reliable movers will also deliver your items on time more frequently.

Bad Weather

The weather plays a significant role in how successful your move will be, making it one of the most common causes of moving delays. If you know there will be unpleasant weather on your move-in day, come ready for whatever mother nature will throw at you. Consider taking a few extra precautions to save yourself from the weather:

  • Pack a tarp or two to protect items from rain
  • Always have an emergency kit in case you get stuck in the mud or snow
  • Wear the right clothing to protect yourself
  • Put down a tarp or towels in the new place to protect floors from water and mud

Car Trouble

If you’ve managed to prepare for all these things, the last thing you want is for your car to give out on the way over. You’ll likely be moving quite a few things in your vehicle as well, so it’s worth it to have a professional check over your car before the move. Ensure that the tires are at the correct inflation level and that you have enough oil—generally, just be sure that your car can make the journey in one piece. Simple automotive problems can make an already stressful moving day even worse.