Published: May 15, 2025

13 Common Moving Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Moving to a new home can be an exciting yet stressful experience. Whether you’re relocating across town or to a different state, a successful move requires careful planning and organization. Many people make costly mistakes during the moving process, leading to unnecessary stress, wasted time, and unexpected expenses. To ensure a smooth transition, here are the top 13 moving mistakes you should avoid.

1. Not Decluttering Before Packing

One major mistake is packing everything without decluttering first. Bringing unnecessary items adds weight, cost, and extra work.

• Go through each room and decide what to keep, donate, or discard.
• Sell items in good condition that you no longer need to make extra cash.
• Reduce the number of items you transport to save time and money.

2. Failing to Research Moving Companies

Hiring the wrong moving company can lead to damage, hidden fees, or scams. Research ahead of time to find a reliable company.

• Read online reviews and ask for recommendations from friends or family.
• Check for licensing and insurance to ensure the companies are legitimate.
• Get multiple quotes and compare services to find the best deal.
• Avoid companies that demand large upfront payments.

3. Waiting Until the Last Minute to Pack

Procrastinating on packing can lead to a disorganized move, increasing stress and the risk of items being left behind or broken.

• Start packing non-essential items weeks before moving day.
• Use a labeling system to keep track of what’s in each box.
• Set a packing schedule and stick to it to avoid last-minute chaos.

4. Not Taking Inventory of Your Belongings

An inventory helps keep track of your items and makes unpacking more efficient. It also provides a reference in case anything goes missing.

• Create a checklist of everything you’re moving.
• Take photos of valuable items for insurance purposes.
• Use an app or spreadsheet to track boxes and their contents.

5. Forgetting to Change Your Address

Not updating your address in a timely manner can result in missed bills, delayed mail, and important documents being sent to your old home.

• Notify the post office to forward your mail to your new address.
• Update your address with banks, credit card companies, and subscriptions.
• Inform utility providers to ensure services are transferred on time.

6. Underestimating Moving Costs

Many people fail to budget properly for their move, leading to unexpected expenses that can strain their finances.

• Factor in costs for packing supplies, moving services, fuel, and temporary housing if needed.
• Get an estimate from your moving company and account for potential extra fees.
• Have an emergency fund in case of unexpected costs.

7. Ignoring Insurance for Your Belongings

Accidents can happen during a move, and without proper insurance, you may not be compensated for lost or damaged items.

• Check if your homeowners or renters’ insurance covers moving-related damage.
• Consider purchasing moving insurance for added protection.
• Ask your moving company about their liability coverage options.

8. Not Packing an Essentials Box

When you arrive, your essentials might be buried in boxes. Packing a separate box keeps key items easy to find.

• Include toiletries, medications, chargers, important documents, and a change of clothes.
• Pack snacks, bottled water, and basic kitchen items for convenience.
• Keep this box in your car or label it clearly for easy access.

9. Forgetting to Measure Doorways and Furniture

Nothing is more frustrating than realizing your furniture won’t fit through the door of your new home.

• Measure large furniture and doorways before moving day.
• Plan for disassembling and reassembling furniture if necessary.
• Consider hiring professionals for bulky or fragile items.

10. Overpacking Boxes

Filling boxes to the brim may seem efficient, but it can lead to broken items and injuries from lifting heavy loads.

• Use sturdy boxes and distribute weight evenly.
• Pack heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones on top.
• Avoid exceeding 50 pounds per box to make them manageable.

11. Not Scheduling Utilities in Advance

Arriving at your new home without electricity, water, or internet can be a major inconvenience.

• Contact utility companies before your move to set up service transfers.
• Schedule internet and cable installation appointments ahead of time.
• Confirm disconnection dates for your old home to avoid unnecessary charges.

12. Failing to Plan for Pets and Kids

Moving can be overwhelming for pets and young children, so planning ahead is essential for their safety and comfort.

• Arrange for a sitter or pet daycare on a moving day.
• Pack a separate bag with essentials for children and pets.
• Keep pets in a quiet, secure area to reduce stress during the move.

13. Not Having a Backup Plan

Unexpected issues, such as bad weather, can disrupt your move. Having a backup plan minimizes last-minute stress.

• Monitor the weather forecast and adjust plans if needed.
• Have an alternative moving date or storage solution in case of delays.
• Keep a list of nearby hotels in case you need temporary accommodations.

Avoiding these 13 common moving mistakes can help make your relocation smooth and hassle-free. Proper planning, organization, and preparation are key to ensuring everything goes according to plan. Take the time to research your options, budget accordingly, and create a moving timeline to stay on track. With the right approach, you can transition to your new home with minimal stress and maximum efficiency.

Need reliable moving services? Visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Northeast Kansas or (785) 706-4242 for a free quote today!