When it comes to moving, preparation is key. The more organized and informed you are, the less likely you are to fall into these common moving traps. Here’s a breakdown of the top 10 common moving mistakes and how to steer clear of them:
1. Procrastinating on Packing
Packing at the last minute is one of the most frequent moving mistakes people make. It may seem manageable at first, but it can quickly become overwhelming, especially when you're rushing to pack up an entire home in a short amount of time.
How to Avoid It: Start packing early. Aim to pack non-essential items at least 2-3 weeks before the move. Leave the essentials for last, such as toiletries, clothes, and important documents.

2. Underestimating the Amount of Stuff You Have
Many people forget to factor in how much stuff they have until it’s time to pack it all up. This often leads to overstuffed boxes or forgotten items left behind.
How to Avoid It: Before packing, go through your belongings and declutter. Donate, sell, or throw away things you don’t need. This will not only reduce the amount you have to pack but will also save you time and money.
3. Failing to Label Boxes Properly
When you’re in a rush, it’s easy to overlook labeling your boxes. This leads to confusion when you unpack, and you might end up opening several boxes to find what you need.
How to Avoid It: Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs in. Use different colors or symbols to make the labels even more noticeable. This will help you unpack more efficiently and save time in the long run.
4. Not Hiring Professional Movers (or Hiring the Wrong Ones)
One of the top 10 common moving mistakes is assuming you can handle everything yourself. While DIY moves are cost-effective, they can also be incredibly stressful and physically demanding.
How to Avoid It: If your move involves heavy furniture, fragile items, or a long-distance relocation, consider hiring professional movers. Be sure to choose a reputable moving company with positive reviews, proper licensing, and insurance to avoid any headaches.
5. Not Measuring Furniture and Doorways
A common oversight is forgetting to measure furniture and doorways before the move. Many people discover too late that their large sofa or dining table won’t fit through the new home's doors or hallways.
How to Avoid It: Measure your furniture and all the doorways, hallways, and staircases at both your current and new home. This way, you can plan accordingly or even disassemble large furniture ahead of time.
6. Forgetting to Pack an Essentials Box
Another frequent moving mistake is neglecting to pack an essentials box with things you’ll need immediately upon arrival, like toiletries, snacks, a change of clothes, and your phone charger.
How to Avoid It: Create an essentials box with everything you'll need for the first 24-48 hours after you move. Include things like personal hygiene items, medications, important documents, and basic tools for setting up.
7. Overpacking Boxes
Overpacking boxes is a recipe for disaster. Not only can this cause boxes to break, but it also makes them difficult to carry.
How to Avoid It: Pack boxes with manageable weight in mind. Don’t fill them to the brim. If an item is heavy, like books or dishes, use smaller boxes, and keep heavier items on the bottom.
8. Ignoring the Weather Forecast
Weather can have a huge impact on your move, especially if you're moving long-distance or during the winter months. Snow, rain, or extreme heat can make moving dangerous and frustrating.
How to Avoid It: Check the weather forecast leading up to your move day. Prepare by dressing accordingly, protecting your items, and making necessary adjustments to your moving plans if needed. Have a backup plan in case of bad weather, such as renting an indoor loading area.
9. Not Notifying Utility Providers in Time
Failing to schedule utility disconnections at your old home and connections at your new home can lead to days without basic services like electricity, water, or internet.
How to Avoid It: Notify your utility providers about your move at least 2-3 weeks in advance. Schedule disconnections for after you leave and connections for the day you arrive at your new home. Don’t forget about cable, internet, and other services.
10. Overlooking Insurance Coverage
When you hire professional movers, insurance is often overlooked or misunderstood. If your items get damaged or lost during the move, you could be left with the financial burden if you haven’t taken the right precautions.
How to Avoid It: Make sure you understand your moving company's insurance options and consider purchasing additional coverage if necessary. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your valuables.
Final Thoughts on Common Moving Mistakes
By avoiding these top 10 common moving mistakes, you can make your move smoother, safer, and more enjoyable. Preparation is everything, and the more time and effort you put into planning, the less stress you’ll face on the big day. Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, a little organization goes a long way in ensuring a successful move.
For more information on DIY moving or to move with Dos Manos Moving, click below!
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