Moving Soon? Here’s What Most People Mess Up

Moving can be exciting — a fresh start, a new home, maybe even a new city. However, it’s important to avoid common moving mistakes that can make the transition more challenging. But let’s be honest: while discovering better places is great, moving itself isn’t usually anyone’s favorite activity.

Between packing, scheduling, lifting, and paperwork, it’s easy for things to go wrong, especially if you haven’t moved often. Missing a small detail can turn what should be a smooth process into a stressful one.

To help you avoid common pitfalls, we’ve rounded up the most frequent moving mistakes people make — and how to avoid them. Whether you’re hiring movers or going DIY, these tips will save you time, money, and headaches.

1. Not Labeling Boxes Clearly and Consistently

At the start of packing, most people are organized — boxes neatly labeled by room, items sorted carefully. But as the move goes on and fatigue sets in, those labels tend to get… let’s say, less specific.

When you’re faced with 15 unmarked boxes at your new place, finding your coffee maker or toothbrush can feel impossible.

✅ How to avoid it:

• Label every box with its room destination and a short list of key items (e.g., “Kitchen – Coffee Maker, Mugs”).
• Use colored stickers or tape to identify rooms quickly.
• Write handling instructions (e.g., “Fragile,” “This Side Up”).

Pro Tip: Use a moving app or spreadsheet to create a simple inventory list. Snap a quick photo of each box and note what’s inside — it’ll make unpacking much easier.

Also Read: Get Free Boxes for Your Interstate Move

2. Overpacking or Making Boxes Too Heavy

This is a classic mistake. When you’re in a rush, it’s tempting to cram as much as possible into each box to “save space.” But oversized, heavy boxes can easily break — or worse, cause injuries when lifted.

✅ How to avoid it:

• Pack heavy items (like books, plates, or tools) in small boxes.
• Use larger boxes for lightweight items such as bedding or clothes.
• Test each box by lifting a corner — if it feels unmanageable, repack it.

💡 Tip: Balance each box by mixing heavy and light items. Fill empty space with towels or bubble wrap to prevent shifting.

3. Buying Supplies You Could Get for Free

New boxes, bubble wrap, and specialty packing materials can add up quickly. But there are many ways to get sturdy, reliable materials without breaking the bank.

✅ How to avoid it:

• Ask local grocery, liquor, or electronics stores for spare boxes — they often have extras from deliveries.
• Check community groups on Facebook Marketplace, Nextdoor, or Craigslist for free or lightly used boxes.
• Use towels, blankets, or clothes as padding instead of buying extra packing paper.

Bonus: Bottle boxes are perfect for glassware since they already have built-in dividers!

Also Read: What to Pack First Before the Moving Day

4. Forgetting About Dangerous or Restricted Materials

Not everything can safely go on a moving truck. Professional movers are legally restricted from transporting flammable, corrosive, or explosive items.

✅ Common restricted items include:

• Paint, solvents, and cleaning chemicals
• Lighter fluid, propane tanks, and fuel
• Fireworks or ammunition
• Perishable foods and plants
• Full fish tanks or aquariums

If you’re unsure whether something is allowed, ask your moving company in advance. You may need to dispose of, empty, or transport those items yourself.

🔥 Safety Tip: Always drain gas-powered equipment (like lawnmowers) before moving them.

5. Not Measuring Doorways or Furniture

Imagine arriving at your new home, only to discover your couch doesn’t fit through the front door. It’s a frustrating — and common — mistake.

✅ How to avoid it:

• Measure large furniture and door frames ahead of time.
• Check hallways, staircases, and elevators for clearance.
• If necessary, disassemble large items like bed frames or desks before moving day.
• Keep the right tools (screwdriver, Allen wrench, tape measure) handy for quick adjustments.

A few minutes of measuring can save hours of frustration later.

6. Forgetting to Update Your Address

It’s easy to overlook, but missing bills, packages, or important documents can become a real headache after your move.

✅ How to avoid it:

• Visit USPS.com to file a Change of Address form — it only takes a few minutes.
• Update your address with:
  • Banks and credit cards
  • Utility companies
  • Insurance providers
  • Subscriptions and online shopping accounts (Amazon, etc.)
• Don’t forget to update your driver’s license and voter registration if you’ve moved to a new state.

7. Losing Important Moving Documents

During a move, it’s easy for papers to get misplaced — but some are too important to lose.

Your Bill of Lading (the contract between you and your movers) outlines your costs, responsibilities, and claims process if anything is damaged or delayed.

✅ How to avoid it:

• Keep all moving-related paperwork — contracts, inventory lists, receipts — in a clearly labeled folder.
• Store digital copies in your phone or cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox, etc.) for backup.

If an issue arises, you’ll have everything you need to reference and resolve it quickly.

8. Choosing the Wrong Moving Company

Unfortunately, moving scams are still common — from hidden fees to companies that hold belongings hostage.

Choosing the wrong movers can turn your relocation nightmare into a financial one.

✅ How to avoid it:

• Verify your mover’s license and DOT number with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
• Check online reviews and Better Business Bureau (BBB) ratings.
• Get at least three written estimates and be cautious of prices that seem too good to be true.
• Ensure movers use background-checked staff and have insurance coverage.

Also Read: Hiring Movers: 6 Qualities of a Good Moving Company

9. Not Giving Yourself Enough Time

Packing always takes longer than you think — especially if you’re juggling work, kids, and everyday life. Procrastination can lead to rushed packing, lost items, and higher stress.

✅ How to avoid it:

• Start packing at least 2–4 weeks before your move (more if you have a large home).
• Begin with non-essential items — seasonal clothes, decor, books — and save daily necessities for last.
• Use a moving checklist to stay on track.

🕒 Pro Tip: Create a “Moving Week” plan that includes when to clean, defrost the fridge, and confirm logistics with your movers.

10. Ignoring the Emotional Side of Moving

Moving isn’t just a physical process — it’s an emotional one.
Leaving familiar spaces, routines, or even cities can feel overwhelming for both adults and kids.

✅ How to avoid emotional burnout:

• Take time to say goodbye to your old home and neighborhood.
• Involve your family in packing and decision-making.
• Keep daily routines (like meals or bedtime) consistent during the transition.
• Treat yourself to something comforting — your favorite meal or a night off unpacking.

If you’re moving far away, plan a video call or visit with friends to stay connected. Emotional preparation makes settling in much easier.

11. Forgetting Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Options

Sustainability matters more than ever. Moving often involves a lot of waste — cardboard, tape, and plastic wrap. The good news? Eco-friendly options are growing fast.

✅ Simple ways to make your move greener:

• Rent reusable plastic moving bins instead of buying boxes.
• Donate or recycle old belongings before packing.
• Use biodegradable packing peanuts or paper instead of plastic bubble wrap.
• Donate gently used supplies after your move to local shelters or schools.

A cleaner move helps both your community and the planet.

Final Thoughts

Moving doesn’t have to be chaos. With a little preparation, smart planning, and the right mindset, you can make your move smooth, efficient, and even enjoyable.

Remember:

• Label every box clearly.
• Pack smart — not heavy.
• Vet your movers.
• Keep track of your documents and your sanity.

Moving is more than just changing homes — it’s opening the door to a new chapter. So take a deep breath, stay organized, and enjoy the fresh start ahead.