Relocating to a new home can be a thrilling adventure, but it’s also packed with potential challenges. A smooth move comes down to careful planning, smart decisions, and steering clear of common mistakes. To help you avoid unnecessary stress, here are the top ten mistakes people make when moving and how to sidestep them.
1. Neglecting Proper Storage Planning
One of the biggest pitfalls when relocating is failing to plan for storage needs. Whether you’re downsizing or simply in a transition phase, having the right storage solution can save you from clutter and chaos. A critical step is understanding how much space you’ll need to store your belongings. Use a storage unit size guide to assess what works best for you. Overestimating or underestimating your needs could lead to wasted money or a lack of space, so it’s worth doing this right.
Key mistakes to avoid:
- Failing to assess storage needs – Leads to wasted space or insufficient storage.
- Skipping a storage unit size guide – Causes overpaying for space or struggling with overcrowding.
- Ignoring temporary storage options – Results in clutter during the transition period.
- Not organizing stored items – Makes it harder to locate belongings later
2. Skipping the Decluttering Phase
Packing everything you own without sorting through it first is a recipe for frustration. Moving offers the perfect opportunity to get rid of items you no longer need. Skipping this step means paying to move things you won’t use again, not to mention dealing with unnecessary clutter in your new home. Go room by room, deciding what to keep, donate, or toss.
3. Waiting Too Long to Pack
Procrastination is your worst enemy during a move. Packing always takes longer than expected, so leaving it until the last minute can create panic. Start early, even if it’s just a few boxes a day. Focus on non-essential items first, and work your way toward daily necessities as the move approaches.
4. Forgetting to Label Boxes
Imagine hunting for your coffee maker in a sea of identical boxes after an exhausting moving day. It’s an unnecessary headache. Labeling each box clearly with its contents and the room it belongs to will make unpacking far easier. You can even use color-coded stickers for quick visual sorting.
5. Choosing the Wrong Moving Company
Not all moving companies are created equal. Hiring movers without doing proper research could result in delays, damaged items, or unexpected costs. Take the time to compare quotes, read reviews, and ensure the company is insured. Personal recommendations are a great way to find reliable movers.
6. Overlooking the Importance of an Essentials Box
Packing up your entire home often means losing access to the things you’ll need immediately. Forgetting an essentials box—containing items like toiletries, chargers, snacks, and important documents—can turn your first day in a new home into a hassle. Set aside a clearly marked box or bag with everything you’ll need for the first 24-48 hours.
7. Mismanaging Utilities and Address Changes
A smooth transition requires careful attention to logistics. Forgetting to set up utilities at your new home—or canceling them at your old one—can leave you in the dark, literally. Similarly, failing to update your address with banks, subscriptions, and other services can lead to lost mail and missed bills. Make a checklist to stay organized.
Common errors:
- Forgetting to set up utilities in advance – Could leave you without electricity, water, or internet.
- Not canceling utilities at the old home – Leads to unnecessary charges.
- Failing to update your address – Risks lost mail and service interruptions.
- Overlooking service transfers – Such as cable or home security, which could cause delays in setup.
8. Ignoring Measurements in Your New Space
Your beloved furniture might not fit through the door—or even in the room—of your new home. Before the move, take measurements of your new space and compare them to your current furniture. This step saves you from the frustration of realizing too late that something doesn’t fit.
9. Packing Fragile Items Incorrectly
It’s heartbreaking to unpack broken dishes or damaged heirlooms. Fragile items need special attention, so invest in quality packing materials like bubble wrap, packing paper, and sturdy boxes. Label these boxes “fragile” and ensure they’re placed securely in the moving vehicle.
10. Not Giving Yourself Enough Time to Settle
Many people dive straight into unpacking and organizing the moment they arrive. While this seems productive, it can quickly lead to burnout. Give yourself time to settle into your new surroundings at a reasonable pace. Focus on unpacking essentials first, and tackle other rooms gradually.
Embrace Your Fresh Start with Confidence
Moving to a new home is a big deal, but avoiding these mistakes can make it an exciting and manageable experience. With thoughtful planning, a clear timeline, and a bit of patience, you’ll settle into your new space with ease. Treat this as an opportunity to start fresh, create new memories, and make your new house truly feel like home.
