We all know that moving comes with its fair share of challenges. To make sure your move and the unpacking process goes smoothly, there are a few common pitfalls that it’s essential to avoid. Here’s a guide to the top moving mistakes and tips on how you can prevent them:

1. Failing to Plan Ahead

Common mistake: Rushing into the move without a clear plan can lead to disorganization and last-minute chaos.

Prevention: Start planning well in advance if you can. Create a moving timeline that includes packing, scheduling, and organizing. Use a moving checklist to ensure you don’t miss any critical tasks.

2. Overlooking Inventory Management

Common mistake: Not keeping track of what you’re moving can result in lost or misplaced items.

Prevention: Make a detailed inventory of your belongings. Consider using a moving app or a simple spreadsheet to list everything you’re taking with you. This will also help with unpacking and organizing in your new home.

3. Not Purging/Decluttering Before the Move

Common mistake: Moving items you don’t need or use adds unnecessary weight and clutter.

Prevention: Take the opportunity to declutter before you start packing. Donate, sell, or discard items you no longer need. This will not only reduce moving costs but also simplify the unpacking process.

4. Inadequate Packing

Common mistake: Improper packing can lead to damaged items and inefficient use of space.

Prevention: Invest in quality packing materials and pack items carefully. Use bubble wrap, packing peanuts, and sturdy boxes. Label boxes with their contents and the room they belong to for easier unpacking.

5. Forgetting to Label Boxes

Common mistake: Unlabeled boxes make it hard to find essential items and can slow down the unpacking process.

Prevention: Clearly label each box with its contents and destination room. Consider color-coding or using a numbering system to keep track of your boxes and their priority.

6. Ignoring Moving Regulations

Common mistake: Failing to understand moving regulations in your new neighborhood can result in fines or delays.

Prevention: Check local regulations regarding moving trucks, parking, and permits. If you’re moving into a condo or apartment, review any specific rules or restrictions. 

7. Not Considering Insurance

Common mistake: Neglecting to insure your belongings can be risky if items are damaged or lost during the move.

Prevention: Review your current insurance policy to see if it covers moving. If not, consider purchasing additional moving insurance to protect your belongings.

8. Underestimating the Time Required

Common mistake: Assuming that packing and moving will take less time than it actually does can lead to rushed, disorganized efforts.

Prevention: Allocate more time than you think you’ll need for preparations and the actual move. Plan for unexpected delays and adjust your timeline accordingly.

9. Neglecting to Inform Important Parties

Common mistake: Forgetting to notify key parties about your move can lead to missed communications and important documents.

Prevention: Update your address with relevant parties such as banks, utilities, the postal service, and subscription services. Inform friends, family, and employers of your new address as well.

10. Overloading Boxes

Common mistake: Packing too much into a single box can make it difficult to lift and increase the risk of items getting damaged. We often see people overload large boxes and stuff them to the top, making it much more difficult to move and increasing the chance that the box will break open during the move.

Prevention: Distribute weight evenly across boxes and avoid overloading. Pack heavier items in smaller boxes and lighter items in larger boxes.

11. Neglecting to Prepare for Moving Day

Common mistake: Being unprepared on moving day can lead to confusion and delays.

Prevention: Prepare a moving day kit with essentials like snacks, water, basic tools, and important documents. Ensure that everything is packed and ready to go before the movers arrive or you start loading the truck if you are not utilizing a moving service.

12. Not Measuring Doorways and Furniture

Common mistake: Failing to measure your furniture and doorways can result in difficulties during loading and unloading.

Prevention: Measure your furniture and the dimensions of your new home’s doorways and staircases if you can. Ensure that large items can fit through and plan accordingly. This will help avoid delays and issues on move day.

By being aware of these common moving mistakes and taking steps to prevent them, you can make your move as smooth and stress-free as possible. Partnering with an experienced moving company like Eyring Movers can alleviate stress on moving day and beyond. Our team has the knowledge and experience needed to help guide you through the process of moving and we have heard a time or two that we actually make the moving process FUN! Contact us today for a moving quote. Happy moving!