3 Things to Learn About Moving from ‘The Money Pit’

October 12th, 2010 by Autumnn Darden| Posted in Tips & Tricks | 1 Comment »

By MyNewPlace Guest Blogger, Autumnn Darden

Call me crazy, but I can remember practically any line from any movie I’ve ever seen.  (I’ve been told this is a strange gift, but I’ll take it as a compliment.) I recently re-watched the Tom Hanks classic ‘The Money Pit’, and realized that a person could really draw some useful moving advice from it. The plot’s resemblance to the process of researching moving companies is uncanny! So here I am, introducing the 3 things you can learn about moving from ‘The Money Pit’.

The film revolves around Walter and Anna, a couple moving into a massive mansion they’ve just purchased—unfortunately, it’s also a massive hovel.  The couple proceeds to pour money into renovations, things go wrong, and hilarity ensues. (Despite my ‘gift’, thanks to the Internet Movie Database for helping me confirm the movie info and quotes.)

The first thing you can learn about moving from ‘The Money Pit’ is this: when trying to choose a moving company, do your research. Take Walter’s quote in reference to his renovation crew as a case in point:

Walter: “Just because they showed up to collect the money, is no guarantee that they’ll show up to do the work!”

When you’re speaking with various moving companies, find out if they require a deposit and what the payment terms are.  Be cautious if they require payment in full before you’re even packed up—this could help you avoid a potential scam.  It’s also a good idea to check with the Better Business Bureau to confirm the authenticity of any company you’re thinking of moving with.

Another line from the movie brings me to my next moving tip: keep in mind the transit time when choosing a moving company.

Walter: “How long will the job take?”
Construction worker: “Two weeks.”
Walter: “Two weeks? Two weeks?”
Construction worker: “You sound like a parakeet. ‘Two weeks! Two weeks!’”
Walter: “Well, two weeks…it’s amazing.”
Construction worker: “Amazing nothing. It’ll be a regular miracle.”

Be sure to ask the moving company what kind of timeline you can expect when they’re moving your belongings to your new place.  Some moving companies give large windows of time (2 to 4 weeks), which is pretty vague and can make getting settled in a difficult task.

The last lesson to learn from ‘The Money Pit’ is that moving doesn’t have to be stressful.

Walter: Here lies Walter Fielding. He bought a house, and it killed him.

With a little planning and the right moving company, you can make a move without breaking the bank or losing your sanity.

More moving tips to come—in the meantime, let me know if you have questions!