Published: August 01, 2023

Most Common Packing Mistakes for Moving: How to Avoid Them

Moving to a new home can be an exciting adventure, but it can also be a stressful and overwhelming process. One crucial aspect of moving is packing your belongings efficiently and securely. However, many people make common packing mistakes that can lead to damaged items, wasted time, and unnecessary stress. In this blog, we will discuss the most common packing mistakes people make when moving and provide practical tips on how to avoid them.

Procrastinating Packing: One of the biggest mistakes that people make is waiting until the last minute to start the packing process. Packing takes time, and underestimating the amount of work involved can lead to rushed packing and haphazard organization. Start packing well in advance, ideally a few weeks before your move, and tackle one room at a time. This approach will help you stay organized and reduce stress as moving day approaches.

Insufficient Supplies: Another common mistake that is made is underestimating the amount of packing supplies that are needed. Running out of boxes, tape, or bubble wrap in the middle of packing can be frustrating and delay the process. Before you start packing, gather an ample supply of sturdy moving boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, and markers. It’s better to have extra supplies than to run out when you need them the most.

Poor Organization: Lack of organization is a common packing mistake that can make unpacking a nightmare. Avoid randomly packing items from different rooms together, as it can create confusion and make it difficult to find things later. Instead, pack room by room and clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. Creating an inventory list can also help you keep track of your belongings.

Overpacking Boxes: While it may be tempting to stuff as many items as possible into a single box, overpacking can lead to damaged belongings and boxes that are too heavy to lift safely. Ensure that boxes are not too heavy to carry comfortably, and use appropriate-sized boxes for different items. Fragile items should be wrapped individually and placed securely with packing material to prevent breakage.

Ignoring Essential Packing Techniques: Certain items require special attention when packing. For example, delicate glassware should be wrapped in packing paper or bubble wrap, and clothing should be packed in suitcases or wardrobe boxes to avoid wrinkles. Disassembling furniture and properly securing its components is crucial to prevent damage. Take the time to learn about proper packing techniques and apply them accordingly.

Failing to Purge Unnecessary Items: Moving is an opportunity to declutter and get rid of items you no longer need or use. Failing to purge unnecessary belongings before packing will result in wasting time, energy, and money moving things you don’t want. Sort through your belongings and donate, sell, or discard what no longer serves a purpose. The less you have to pack, the smoother your moving process will be.

Avoiding common packing mistakes is crucial to ensuring a smooth and stress-free move. By starting early, organizing correctly, using the right supplies, and packing strategically, you can protect your belongings and make the unpacking process much more manageable. Remember, planning and attention to detail are essential when packing for a move. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to a successful and efficient move to your new home. For more information, visit UNITS Moving and Portable Storage of Madison or call (608) 623-6219.