Moving doesn't have to be a disaster story. Yet every day, people make the same preventable mistakes that turn what should be an exciting transition into a nightmare of broken dishes, lost deposits, and unexpected expenses. At SOS Moving, we've seen it all—and we're here to help you avoid these pitfalls. Learn from others' mistakes so your move can be smooth, efficient, and even enjoyable.
Mistake #1: Not Decluttering Before You Pack
The Problem: Many people pack everything they own, thinking they'll sort it out later. This means paying to move items you don't want, need, or have room for in your new place.
The Cost: Moving companies charge by weight for long-distance moves and by time for local moves. Those old college textbooks and clothes that don't fit anymore? You're literally paying to move trash.
The Solution: Start decluttering at least 6 weeks before your move. Use the "one-year rule"—if you haven't used it in a year, you probably don't need it. Donate, sell, or trash items before you start packing. Your wallet (and your back) will thank you.
Mistake #2: Choosing a Mover Based on Price Alone
The Problem: That incredibly low quote might seem like a great deal until your belongings are held hostage for additional fees, or worse, damaged by uninsured movers.
The Real Story: Rogue movers often give lowball estimates to secure your business, then demand more money on moving day when your belongings are already on the truck.
The Solution: Get at least three quotes from licensed, insured movers. Check reviews on multiple platforms. Verify their USDOT number for interstate moves. Remember, legitimate movers like SOS Moving provide detailed, written estimates and never drastically undercut the competition.
Mistake #3: Not Labeling Boxes Properly
The Problem: Boxes marked simply "Stuff" or "Miscellaneous" turn unpacking into a treasure hunt. You'll open twenty boxes looking for your coffee maker on your first morning.
The Chaos Factor: Poor labeling means movers don't know which boxes need special care or which room they belong in, leading to damaged items and chaos in your new home.
The Solution: Label each box with its contents AND destination room. Use a numbering system with a master list. Mark "FRAGILE" and "THIS SIDE UP" clearly. Consider color-coding by room with colored tape or markers.
Mistake #4: Packing Hazardous Materials
The Problem: Moving companies cannot legally transport hazardous materials, including paint, propane, chemicals, and even nail polish remover. Packing these items can result in your entire shipment being refused.
The Danger: Beyond legal issues, these materials can leak, explode, or cause fires during transport, potentially destroying all your belongings.
The Solution: Dispose of hazardous materials properly before moving. Check with your local waste management about hazardous waste disposal days. Transport allowed items like cleaning supplies in your personal vehicle, properly sealed and upright.
Mistake #5: Forgetting to Update Important Documents
The Problem: Failing to update your address means missing important mail, including tax documents, jury summons, and bills. This can lead to late fees, legal issues, and credit problems.
The Domino Effect: One missed bill can snowball into late fees, service interruptions, and credit score damage.
The Solution: Start updating your address 3 weeks before moving. Create a checklist including: USPS mail forwarding, driver's license, voter registration, insurance policies, employers, banks, credit cards, subscriptions, and medical providers.
Mistake #6: Not Preparing an Essentials Box
The Problem: Everything you need immediately is buried in boxes. You're exhausted, hungry, and can't find toilet paper, phone chargers, or a shower curtain.
The First Night Horror: Imagine arriving at your new home at 8 PM, tired and hungry, only to realize all your toiletries and bedding are somewhere in a mountain of unmarked boxes.
The Solution: Pack 2-3 clearly marked "ESSENTIALS" boxes that travel with you. Include: toiletries, medications, phone chargers, basic tools, toilet paper, towels, change of clothes, important documents, snacks, and first-night bedding.
Mistake #7: Underestimating Packing Time
The Problem: People consistently think packing will take "a weekend." In reality, packing a two-bedroom apartment properly takes 20-30 hours.
The Last-Minute Scramble: Rushed packing leads to broken items, lost belongings, and the dreaded "throw everything in garbage bags" approach.
The Solution: Start packing non-essentials 4-6 weeks before moving. Dedicate specific time blocks to packing. Consider professional packing services—it's often worth the investment.
Mistake #8: Not Taking Photos
The Problem: No proof of pre-existing damage to your old apartment, no documentation of valuable items' condition, and no reference for how to reconnect your entertainment system.
The Lost Deposit: Without photos, landlords can claim any damage was your fault, keeping your security deposit.
The Solution: Photograph everything: your old place's condition, valuable items before packing, electronic setups before disconnecting, and the moving truck's interior if you're DIY moving. Store photos in the cloud for easy access.
Mistake #9: Moving During Peak Times
The Problem: Moving on summer weekends or at month-end means higher prices, less availability, and stressed-out everyone.
The Premium Price: Moving companies charge 20-30% more during peak times. You're competing with everyone else for trucks, movers, and even elevator reservations.
The Solution: If possible, move mid-month and mid-week. October through April typically offers better rates. If you must move during peak times, book at least 6 weeks in advance.
Mistake #10: Not Reading the Fine Print
The Problem: Signing contracts without reading them leads to surprise fees, inadequate insurance coverage, and no recourse when things go wrong.
The Expensive Surprise: Hidden fees for stairs, long carries, or shuttle services can add hundreds to your bill.
The Solution: Read every document carefully. Ask questions about anything unclear. Understand what's included and what costs extra. Know your insurance coverage and consider additional protection for valuable items. Get everything in writing.
The Professional Advantage
While these mistakes are common, they're entirely preventable with proper planning and the right moving partner. Professional movers like SOS Moving help you avoid these pitfalls through experience, proper equipment, and clear communication. We've seen every mistake in the book, which means we know how to prevent them.
Your Moving Success Checklist
To avoid these mistakes, use this quick checklist:
- ✓ Start planning 6-8 weeks before moving
- ✓ Get multiple quotes from licensed movers
- ✓ Declutter before packing
- ✓ Label boxes clearly and in detail
- ✓ Update all important documents
- ✓ Pack essentials separately
- ✓ Document everything with photos
- ✓ Read all contracts thoroughly
- ✓ Book movers early, especially for peak times
- ✓ Prepare for the unexpected with backup plans
Conclusion
Moving doesn't have to be a series of disasters and regrets. By avoiding these common mistakes, you're already ahead of 90% of people who move. Take the time to plan properly, ask questions when uncertain, and don't hesitate to invest in professional help when needed. Your future self—the one relaxing in your perfectly set-up new home—will thank you for the extra effort.
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