{"id":5099,"date":"2025-05-15T00:00:13","date_gmt":"2025-05-15T00:00:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/unitsstorage.com\/northeast-kansas\/?p=5099"},"modified":"2025-05-20T12:57:22","modified_gmt":"2025-05-20T12:57:22","slug":"common-moving-mistakes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/unitsstorage.com\/northeast-kansas\/common-moving-mistakes\/","title":{"rendered":"13 Common Moving Mistakes to Avoid"},"content":{"rendered":"<h1>13 Common Moving Mistakes and How to Avoid Them<\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Moving to a new home can be an exciting yet stressful experience. Whether you\u2019re 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.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>1. Not Decluttering Before Packing<\/b><\/h2>\n<p>One major mistake is packing everything without decluttering first. Bringing unnecessary items adds weight, cost, and extra work.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Go through each room and decide what to keep, donate, or discard.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sell items in good condition that you no longer need to make extra cash.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Reduce the number of items you transport to save time and money.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>2. Failing to Research Moving Companies<\/b><\/h2>\n<p>Hiring the wrong moving company can lead to damage, hidden fees, or scams. Research ahead of time to find a reliable company.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Read online reviews and ask for recommendations from friends or family.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Check for licensing and insurance to ensure the companies are legitimate.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Get multiple quotes and compare services to find the best deal.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Avoid companies that demand large upfront payments.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>3. Waiting Until the Last Minute to Pack<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Procrastinating on packing can lead to a disorganized move, increasing stress and the risk of items being left behind or broken.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Start packing non-essential items weeks before moving day.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Use a labeling system to keep track of what\u2019s in each box.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Set a packing schedule and stick to it to avoid last-minute chaos.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>4. Not Taking Inventory of Your Belongings<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An inventory helps keep track of your items and makes unpacking more efficient. It also provides a reference in case anything goes missing.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Create a checklist of everything you\u2019re moving.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Take photos of valuable items for insurance purposes.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Use an app or spreadsheet to track boxes and their contents.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>5. Forgetting to Change Your Address<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Not updating your address in a timely manner can result in missed bills, delayed mail, and important documents being sent to your old home.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Notify the post office to forward your mail to your new address.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Update your address with banks, credit card companies, and subscriptions.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Inform utility providers to ensure services are transferred on time.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>6. Underestimating Moving Costs<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many people fail to budget properly for their move, leading to unexpected expenses that can strain their finances.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Factor in costs for packing supplies, moving services, fuel, and temporary housing if needed.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Get an estimate from your moving company and account for potential extra fees.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Have an emergency fund in case of unexpected costs.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>7. Ignoring Insurance for Your Belongings<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Accidents can happen during a move, and without proper insurance, you may not be compensated for lost or damaged items.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Check if your homeowners or renters&#8217; insurance covers moving-related damage.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Consider purchasing moving insurance for added protection.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ask your moving company about their liability coverage options.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>8. Not Packing an Essentials Box<\/b><\/h2>\n<p>When you arrive, your essentials might be buried in boxes. Packing a separate box keeps key items easy to find.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Include toiletries, medications, chargers, important documents, and a change of clothes.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pack snacks, bottled water, and basic kitchen items for convenience.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Keep this box in your car or label it clearly for easy access.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>9. Forgetting to Measure Doorways and Furniture<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nothing is more frustrating than realizing your furniture won\u2019t fit through the door of your new home.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Measure large furniture and doorways before moving day.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Plan for disassembling and reassembling furniture if necessary.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Consider hiring professionals for bulky or fragile items.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>10. Overpacking Boxes<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Filling boxes to the brim may seem efficient, but it can lead to broken items and injuries from lifting heavy loads.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Use sturdy boxes and distribute weight evenly.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pack heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones on top.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Avoid exceeding 50 pounds per box to make them manageable.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>11. Not Scheduling Utilities in Advance<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Arriving at your new home without electricity, water, or internet can be a major inconvenience.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Contact utility companies before your move to set up service transfers.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Schedule internet and cable installation appointments ahead of time.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Confirm disconnection dates for your old home to avoid unnecessary charges.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>12. Failing to Plan for Pets and Kids<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Moving can be overwhelming for pets and young children, so planning ahead is essential for their safety and comfort.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Arrange for a sitter or pet daycare on a moving day.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pack a separate bag with essentials for children and pets.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Keep pets in a quiet, secure area to reduce stress during the move.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>13. Not Having a Backup Plan<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unexpected issues, such as bad weather, can disrupt your move. Having a backup plan minimizes last-minute stress.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Monitor the weather forecast and adjust plans if needed.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Have an alternative moving date or storage solution in case of delays.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Keep a list of nearby hotels in case you need temporary accommodations.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">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.<\/span><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Need reliable moving services? Visit <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/unitsstorage.com\/northeast-kansas\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">UNITS\u00ae Moving and Portable Storage of Northeast Kansas<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or (785) 706-4242 for a free quote today!<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>13 Common Moving Mistakes and How to Avoid Them Moving to a new home can be an exciting yet stressful experience. Whether you\u2019re 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 [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":5100,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[26],"tags":[45,118],"class_list":["post-5099","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-moving-and-storage-advice","tag-moving","tag-moving-mistakes"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/unitsstorage.com\/northeast-kansas\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5099","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/unitsstorage.com\/northeast-kansas\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/unitsstorage.com\/northeast-kansas\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/unitsstorage.com\/northeast-kansas\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/unitsstorage.com\/northeast-kansas\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5099"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/unitsstorage.com\/northeast-kansas\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5099\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/unitsstorage.com\/northeast-kansas\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5100"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/unitsstorage.com\/northeast-kansas\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5099"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/unitsstorage.com\/northeast-kansas\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5099"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/unitsstorage.com\/northeast-kansas\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5099"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}