Almost everyone makes at least one avoidable mistake during a move. A box labelled “misc.” goes in the wrong room, a lamp breaks because it was packed with books, or a booking is made only days before the date. These problems rarely feel dramatic on their own. Together, they can turn a manageable weekend into an exhausting one.
Here are ten of the most common errors and what to do instead.
1. Starting too late
The mistake: Waiting until the last week to begin packing and booking.
The fix: Start early. Begin with items you rarely use, such as seasonal decor, books and spare linens. Set a rough schedule: one room or area per day in the weeks before the move. Most people underestimate how much time packing actually takes.
2. Booking help at the last minute
How far ahead should you book? As soon as your move date is confirmed. Busy periods, including summer, weekends and month-end, can fill up quickly, and last-minute options may be limited.
If you do end up in a time crunch, some companies, including Magic Move, offer last-minute moving help. Ask what is possible rather than assuming it is not.
3. Not decluttering first
The mistake: Packing, moving and unpacking items you no longer use.
The fix: Sort belongings into keep, donate, sell and recycle before you pack. Every item you remove is one less box to buy, tape, lift and unpack. Check local donation options and municipal recycling guidelines for items such as electronics or hazardous materials.
4. Using poor packing materials
Reused grocery bags, flimsy boxes and old newspapers might look like savings, but they often cost more in breakage. Use sturdy boxes in appropriate sizes, packing paper, bubble wrap for fragile items, and strong tape.
A simple rule: heavy items go in small boxes, light items go in large boxes. A large box full of books becomes both a back injury and a collapsed bottom waiting to happen.
5. Skipping labels
Unlabelled boxes make unpacking slow and unpredictable. Label every box on at least two sides with the destination room and a short note on contents. Mark fragile boxes clearly. A colour-coded sticker system by room can help your crew place boxes in the correct spot without asking.
6. Forgetting an essentials bag
You will need something on the first night: pyjamas, toiletries, medication, chargers, a towel, a few kitchen basics, important documents, pet supplies and a basic toolkit. Pack them in a clearly marked bag or box that travels with you rather than on the truck.
7. Not measuring large furniture and doorways
Nothing deflates moving day like discovering that the sofa will not fit through the entry. Measure large pieces and the doors, hallways, stairwells and elevator at the destination. If something will not fit, you want to know before the truck is loaded.
Disassemble beds, tables and shelving when you can, and keep screws and hardware in labelled bags taped to the furniture.
8. Underestimating the job when choosing help
The mistake: Giving a vague description of your belongings and accepting a quote that does not match reality.
The fix: Describe your move accurately, including stairs, parking distance, heavy items and anything fragile. Accurate information leads to accurate estimates. A reliable crew will ask you questions rather than skip them.
Booking a professional moving service does not mean you have to hand over everything. Many people use a hybrid approach: they pack personally and have a professional moving service handle loading, transport and unloading. That can keep costs reasonable while taking care of the heaviest and riskiest part of the job.
9. Ignoring building and access rules
Condos and apartment buildings often have rules about move-in hours, elevator booking, floor protection and certificate-of-insurance requirements. Houses can have parking limits, narrow streets or steep driveways. Confirm details with your property manager or condo board in advance so your crew does not lose time at the door.
10. Not planning for protection and valuables
Furniture needs padding, wrapping and secure loading, not just a place on the truck. Check what protection your mover provides, and ask about insurance or coverage options in writing. Keep irreplaceable items, jewellery, passports, cash and important documents with you.
Photograph valuable pieces before the move. If a problem does arise, you will have a clear record of the condition.
A quick pre-move audit
A week before your date, run through this list:
- Is everything booked and confirmed in writing?
- Have utilities and address changes been arranged?
- Are fragile items properly packed and labelled?
- Do you know where parking and elevator access will be?
- Do you have cash, snacks and water for the crew and yourself?
- Is your essentials bag set aside?
What should you do if something goes wrong?
Document it, tell the crew lead right away if it happens on the day, and contact the company promptly in writing. Photographs, a short description and the date help a claim or resolution move faster. Delaying often makes it harder to establish what happened.
Conclusion
Most moving mistakes come down to timing, information and protection. Start earlier than you think you need to, describe the job honestly, pack properly, label clearly and keep essentials close. A move will never be completely stress-free, but avoiding these ten problems removes many of the most common ones.
FAQs
What is the biggest mistake people make when moving?
Starting late. It leads to rushed packing, limited booking options and more mistakes in nearly every other area.
How early should I start packing?
Two to four weeks before the move is typical for an average household, longer for large homes or if you have many fragile items.
Is it better to pack myself or hire packers?
Packing yourself saves money but takes time. Professional packing saves time and can improve protection, especially for fragile items.
Should I buy moving insurance?
Ask your mover what coverage is included and what options exist. Also check whether your home or tenant insurance extends to belongings in transit.
