The Most Common Mistakes People Make When They Move (And How to Avoid Them)

Moving to a new home can be exciting—a fresh start, a new neighborhood, maybe even a new city. But let’s face it: moving can also be one of the most stressful experiences if you’re not prepared. From packing chaos to unexpected costs, there are plenty of ways a move can go sideways.

Here are the most common moving mistakes—and how to avoid them for a smoother, more stress-free move.

1. Underestimating How Much Stuff You Have

Everyone thinks, “It’s not that much.” Until you start pulling things out of closets, drawers, and the garage. Suddenly, it’s like your stuff multiplied overnight.

How to avoid it: Start early and be realistic. Begin packing the things you don’t use daily at least 3–4 weeks in advance. In fact, if you’ve lived in your home for quite some time - start months in advance. Declutter as you go—there’s no point in moving items you don’t want or need.

2. Not Labeling Boxes Properly

A box marked “Misc” isn’t going to help you find your coffee maker on the first morning in your new home. You’ll waste time opening and digging through boxes trying to find essentials.

How to avoid it: Label every box clearly with the room it belongs in and a quick list of what’s inside (e.g., Kitchen – pots, cutting board, blender).

Level up tip: Keep a spreadsheet with each box and contents so you can search and find the items you’re looking for.

3. Forgetting to Pack an Essentials Box

The last thing you want to do after a full day of moving is dig through 20 boxes looking for a phone charger or toothpaste.

How to avoid it: Pack a “First Night Essentials” box or suitcase with everything you’ll need the first 24–48 hours—clothes, toiletries, chargers, toilet paper, a few basic kitchen items, and important documents.

4. Not Measuring Furniture or Doorways

That giant sectional might have looked great in your old living room—but will it fit through the front door of your new place?

How to avoid it: Measure large furniture and compare it to the dimensions of your new space. Take note of tight hallways, stairwells, and elevators. It’s better to know before moving day.

5. Procrastinating Booking Movers or Trucks

Moving companies and rental trucks book up fast—especially during peak times like weekends and the end of the month.

How to avoid it: Book your movers or truck as early as possible, ideally a month in advance. Don’t forget to confirm the reservation a week before your move.

6. Forgetting to Update Important Information

It’s easy to forget to update your address until your mail is still going to your old place—or worse, your bills.

How to avoid it: Change your address with the postal service, banks, subscriptions, employer, insurance, and driver’s license well before moving day. Make a checklist and knock it out early.

7. Not Having a Plan for Pets or Kids

Moving day is already chaotic. Add a curious dog or bored toddler, and it can get overwhelming quickly.

How to avoid it: Arrange for a friend, sitter, or family member to watch pets or kids during the move. It keeps them safe and gives you space to focus.

8. Overpacking Boxes

Sure, you want to use fewer boxes—but not at the expense of your back or broken dishes.

How to avoid it: Keep boxes under 50 lbs when possible. Heavy items (like books) go in smaller boxes. Use plenty of padding for fragile items and don’t skimp on tape.

9. Skipping the Cleaning Step

Moving out of a rental? You could lose your deposit. Selling a home? First impressions matter.

How to avoid it:  Schedule time to do a deep clean (or hire someone) once the place is empty. Don’t forget inside cabinets, baseboards, and appliances.

Final Thought: Moving Doesn’t Have to Be a Disaster

Moving is never completely stress-free, but avoiding these common mistakes can make the process much smoother. Stay organized, plan ahead, and remember: every box you unpack brings you one step closer to making your new place feel like home.

Need Help Preparing for a Move?

The Lighter Home offers expert decluttering, packing support, and new home organizing to make your move easier from start to finish. Whether you're downsizing, staging your home to sell, or settling into a new space, we’re here to help every step of the way. View our list of services here, including home sale services for both sellers and buyers.

Let’s lighten your move—so you can focus on your fresh start. Contact us today.

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