There’s no place on Earth like New York is, so there’s no wonder why plenty of things go wrong when people move here. Many of those are on them, such as poor judgment calls and bad preparation. But, the city knows how to prepare a good battle for you too. Luckily for you, we have collected all the common mistakes people make when moving in NYC and put it in this 2020 guide. Dive in and learn what you should, and what you shouldn’t do.
Thinking you need to live in the middle of Manhattan
What we often hear is that people that are moving into the city for the first time choose Manhattan because they want the full NYC experience. Well, let us help you. There’s no such thing. New York is a big place and every neighborhood brings something special with it. So, you don’t have to pursue anything. Additionally, the reasons why local moves in New York City are more challenging than those in other major cities are the most prominent in Manhattan. Don’t let us even get started on the rent prices. Trust us, you don’t need to live in Midtown to get the experience you’re searching for.
Moving in above the bar
If you watched a few TV sitcoms about the city before moving here you may think that moving above a bar is an amazing idea. However, you need to understand that it’s nothing like on the TV. Music is often very loud and it goes well into the night so sleep is a tough thing to get. Even if you really love this idea, don’t test your tolerance right from the beginning. Choose a peaceful place to start your New York adventure.
Moving above a bar may seem like a fun experience, but trust us. It won’t be one.
Bringing too much stuff
When you finally find the right place to move to, and if you’re able to meet the requirements to qualify for the apartment and pay all the deposits, the excitement gets high. However, you need to stay calm and remember not to overpack. Know that the average NYC apartment is much smaller than the average apartment in pretty much any other town. So, pack lightly and explore smart small space storage solutions ahead of time.
Picking an inexperienced mover
As we already mentioned, moving in NYC is tough. This is why you really shouldn’t experiment with movers that you found on Craigslist, or test your skills with a rented truck. Just decide on a moving budget and hire a reliable and experienced moving company. Try to source locally and find a mover that is familiar with the city and the surrounding areas. Also, think about green relocation!
Trying to move on their own is one of the most common mistakes people make when moving in NYC.
Moving in winter months
If you’re moving on a tight budget, it may be tempting to move during the winter months. The waiting lists are much shorter and you can really get a great deal. And, in fact, it is one of the most common mistakes people make when moving in NYC. You mustn’t forget one thing. Winters in the Big Apple are brutal. So try to avoid doing this at any cost. It’s better to have a pleasant moving experience than a stressful cheap mess of relocation.