Published: January 01, 2025

Top Moving Mistakes to Avoid in the New Year 

The New Year is a time for fresh starts, and for many, it’s also the perfect time to embark on a big move. However, as exciting as moving can be, it often brings unexpected challenges. From missed deadlines to damaged belongings, moving mistakes can quickly turn a hopeful beginning into a stressful experience. Here are the top moving mistakes and how to avoid them to ensure your transition is as smooth as possible.

1. Waiting Until the Last Minute

Procrastination is one of the biggest mistakes people make when preparing for a move. Waiting until the last few days to pack, schedule moving services, or organize logistics can lead to higher costs, missed opportunities, and increased stress. Start planning your move at least a month in advance by creating a timeline that includes key steps like decluttering, packing, notifying utility providers, and arranging transportation. Create a detailed moving checklist, breaking down all moving tasks into weekly goals to help you stay on track. 

2. Not Decluttering Before Packing

Packing every single item in your home can be a huge waste of time and money. Many people regret bringing items they no longer need, especially if it costs more to move them. This mistake can result in overcrowded boxes, unnecessary clutter in your new space, and added moving expenses. Decluttering beforehand helps you start fresh in your new home. Before packing, go room by room and sort items into “keep,” “donate,” and “discard” piles. This not only makes packing easier but also reduces the overall cost and hassle of the move.

3. Forgetting to Label Moving Boxes Properly

A common moving mistake is skipping labeling boxes or writing vague descriptions. Without clear labels, unpacking can become a nightmare as you try to figure out where each box should go. Mislabeling also increases the risk of mishandling fragile items, leading to damage during transport. Proper labels save time and reduce stress. Label each box with the room it belongs to and list its contents. For fragile items, add “fragile” on all sides of the box for added protection. Using color-coded labels or tape for each room can also streamline unpacking.

4. Ignoring Packing Supplies

While cutting costs on packing supplies is tempting, using the wrong materials can result in damaged items. Overloading boxes or using poor-quality supplies increases the risk of breakage. For instance, packing fragile items without bubble wrap or protective padding can lead to irreparable damage. Invest in quality packing supplies such as sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, and durable tape. For electronics and valuable items, consider specialized boxes for added security. Spending a little more on supplies is worth it to keep your belongings safe.

5. Failing to Measure Doorways and Spaces

It’s easy to assume that all furniture will fit through doorways or hallways at your new place, but many people often find themselves stuck with oversized items that don’t fit. This can lead to frustration, damage to property, and even the need to disassemble furniture. Measure the dimensions of large items and compare them with doorways, elevators, and hallways in both your old and new home. A little preparation can save you a lot of hassle on moving day. Planning ahead ensures a smoother move-in process and reduces the risk of property damage.

Avoiding these common moving mistakes can make all the difference as you embark on a new chapter. With thoughtful planning and careful packing, you can turn what might have been a stressful moving experience into an organized and positive transition. Start your New Year off right by making your move as seamless as possible. Remember, the New Year is about fresh starts—don’t let moving mistakes hold you back!

Looking for reliable moving services? Visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Bucks & Mercer County or call (609) 245-6226.