Moving can be one of the most stressful events in life, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you are relocating across town or to a new city, avoiding common moving mistakes can make the process smoother and less overwhelming.

Here are the top 10 moving mistakes to avoid and how to fix them.

1. Last Minute

Mistake: Waiting until the last minute to start packing can lead to unnecessary stress and chaos.

Fix: Begin packing at least a month in advance. Create a packing schedule that breaks down tasks into manageable chunks. Start with items you use least frequently and work your way towards everyday essentials.

2. Not Decluttering Before the Move

Mistake: Moving items you no longer need or want can increase the cost and effort of your move.

Fix: Take the time to declutter before you start packing. Donate, sell, or dispose of items that you don’t need. This not only reduces the load but also makes unpacking easier in your new home.

3. Failing to Label Boxes

Mistake: Not labelling boxes can make unpacking a nightmare and slow down the moving process.

Fix: Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. Consider colour-coding boxes by room to make unloading and unpacking more efficient.

4. Not Packing an Essentials Box

Mistake: Forgetting to pack a box of essentials can leave you scrambling for necessary items on the first day in your new home.

Fix: Pack a box with essential items such as toiletries, medications, a change of clothes, basic kitchen supplies, and important documents. Keep this box easily accessible during the move.

5. Ignoring Proper Packing Techniques

Mistake: Improper packing can lead to damaged items and increased stress during the move.

Fix: Use sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, and packing paper. Wrap fragile items carefully and fill any empty spaces in boxes with packing materials to prevent shifting. Label boxes containing fragile items as “FRAGILE.”

6. Underestimating the Time Needed

Mistake: Underestimating how long it will take to pack and move can lead to rushed, last-minute packing and increased stress.

Fix: Plan ahead and allocate more time than you think you need for each stage of the move. Use a moving checklist to stay organized and on schedule.

7. Forgetting to Measure Furniture and Doorways

Mistake: Not measuring furniture and doorways can lead to frustration if items don’t fit through doors or into the new space.

Fix: Measure your furniture and the doorways in both your current and new home. This will help you plan the best way to move large items and avoid surprises on moving day.

8. Not Booking Moving Services in Advance

Mistake: Waiting too long to book moving services can result in limited availability and higher costs.

Fix: Book your moving services well in advance, especially during peak moving seasons. This ensures you get the date and time you want and can help you avoid last-minute complications.

9. Skipping Insurance

Mistake: Not insuring your belongings can be costly if items are damaged or lost during the move.

Fix: Check if your moving company offers insurance and what it covers. Consider purchasing additional insurance if needed to protect valuable or irreplaceable items.

10. Not Preparing for the First Night in Your New Home

Mistake: Not having what you need for the first night in your new home can make for a stressful and uncomfortable experience.

Fix: Pack a first-night box with bedding, toiletries, pyjamas, and other essentials. This will help you settle in quickly and comfortably after a long day of moving.

Let Us Make Your Move Stress-Free!

Avoid these common moving mistakes by letting our professional removal services handle the heavy lifting. With our experienced team, packing materials, and comprehensive moving plans, we ensure a smooth and stress-free move. Contact us today for a free quote and let us take the hassle out of your next move.