10 moving mistakes to avoid for a safe and productive moving day

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(BPT) - For millions of Americans, the turn of seasons means it's time to tackle the big move. Whether you've purchased a new home or are changing apartments, moving is a lot of work - both physically and mentally. By planning ahead, packing smart and moving safely, you can avoid some of the most notorious moving day mistakes.


"AAA shares a longstanding commitment to driver safety with Penske, which is especially important during the spring and summer moving season," says Scott Denman, AAA, vice president, Financial Services and Discounts & Rewards.


To streamline your moving day, avoid these top mistakes and feel great about entering your new home sweet home:


Mistake: Renting the wrong size truck
In general, allow 150 cubic feet of truck space for each fully furnished room. For example, a 12-foot truck offers 450 cubic feet while a 26-foot truck offers 1,400 cubic feet for your items.


Mistake: Packing items too early or too late
Begin with out-of-season and non-essential items several weeks prior to move day. Donate or sell anything you won't use at your new home. Pack essentials like personal necessities and basic cookware the day before or morning of moving day.


Mistake: Damaging breakable items
Poor packing can cause items to break during the move. Plan ahead and have plenty of paper and bubble wrap on hand. Towels, socks and other soft materials are great for packing breakables as well.
Mistake: Reserving a rental truck too late
Wait too long and you might not get the truck you need. Reserve a truck at least two weeks prior to the move. Access PenskeTruckRental.com from your smartphone and in a few clicks you'll reserve the perfect moving truck for your moving day, saving you time and headaches.


Mistake: Poorly labeled boxes
Where did you put those tools you now so desperately need? Always remember to label boxes clearly. Note the boxes' contents and what room it belongs in.


Mistake: Not having enough hands on deck
Now is the time to cash in some favors and elicit friends and family to help on moving day. This allows you to use your truck rental time efficiently while ensuring you're not too sore from doing it all yourself.


Mistake: Not utilizing truck space efficiently
Put the biggest items in the truck first followed by heavy boxes. Then stack with lighter boxes and other items to fill in the remaining space.


Mistake: Lifting incorrectly
When loading and unloading, be sure to bend your knees and lift with your legs, not your back. Work diligently, but be sure to take breaks and stay hydrated.


Mistake: Driving at peak times
Leave early in the morning. You'll run into less traffic and you'll leave yourself extra time to unload at your destination. Take turns driving and take breaks once every two to three hours.


Mistake: Unsafe driving practices
Driving a big truck is new for many people. Penske professionals will get you familiarized with your vehicle, verify the best driving directions to your new home, check the upcoming weather and give you any necessary driving advice.

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