Moving to a new home should be exciting. But let’s be real—it can also be a bit of a mess if you’re not careful. Packing boxes, hiring movers, changing addresses, and making sure nothing gets left behind is a big job, especially during a new state move.
That’s why it’s important to avoid the most common moving mistakes before they cost you time, money, and peace of mind.
Planning ahead and making smart choices (like getting discounts when packaging services together) can save you a ton of stress. Here are five mistakes to steer clear of if you want a smooth move.
1. Not Decluttering Before the Move
One of the biggest mistakes people make is packing everything—even the stuff they don’t use. Why waste time and money moving items you’ll never need?
Before you start boxing things up, go room by room and sort your items. Ask yourself: Do I use this? Do I love this? Will I need it in the new place? If not, donate, sell, or toss it.
Fewer items mean fewer boxes, less work, and possibly a cheaper move. It also gives your new home a fresh start—clutter-free.
2. Waiting Until the Last Minute to Pack
It might seem like you have plenty of time, but packing always takes longer than expected. Waiting until the last minute can lead to chaos, broken items, and forgotten essentials.
Start early by packing the things you don’t use every day—like off-season clothes, books, or decor. Label your boxes clearly and keep a list of what’s in each one. That way, unpacking is a breeze, and you won’t be stuck hunting for your toothbrush at midnight.
3. Not Hiring the Right Movers
Choosing the cheapest movers might sound like a win, but it can cost you more in the long run. Damaged furniture, late arrivals, or hidden fees can turn your moving day into a nightmare.
Do your homework. Look up reviews, ask for recommendations, and get at least three quotes. Ask what’s included in the price and check if they offer insurance. Some companies even give discounts when packaging services together, like packing and moving as a bundle.
The right moving team makes all the difference.
4. Ignoring the Essentials Box
Once everything’s on the moving truck, you’ll still need certain things on that first night in your new home. Don’t make the mistake of packing everything without setting aside an “essentials box.”
This box should have the must-haves for your first 24 hours:
- Toilet paper
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Phone charger
- Clean clothes
- Important papers
- Snacks and water
- Basic tools (like a screwdriver and scissors)
Think of it like a survival kit. It saves you from having to dig through dozens of boxes just to find your pajamas.
5. Forgetting to Update Your Address and Utilities
It’s easy to forget to tell people you’re moving. But skipping this step can cause missed bills, missed medical and consultant appointments, delayed mail, or service issues in your new place.
Make a list of who needs your new address:
- Post office (use their mail forwarding service)
- Banks and credit cards
- Utility companies (gas, water, electricity, internet)
- Employer and school
- Friends and family
Set reminders or create a checklist so nothing falls through the cracks. Updating ahead of time means everything is ready the day you arrive.
Final Thoughts
Moving doesn’t have to be a stressful disaster. By avoiding these five common mistakes, you can make the process smoother, faster, and even more affordable. A little planning goes a long way—and your future self will thank you for it.
Would you like help creating a checklist or printable guide to go along with this blog?
