Even the most organised people make mistakes when moving house. From underestimating how long packing takes to forgetting who to notify about your new address, small errors can create big headaches on moving day.
Here are ten of the most common moving mistakes — and how to avoid them — whether you’re relocating across Manchester or to another part of the UK.
1. Leaving Packing Until the Last Minute
Packing always takes longer than you think. Leaving it too late leads to rushed decisions, poor organisation, and broken items.
Start early and tackle one room at a time. Begin with non-essentials like spare rooms or seasonal items, then move on to daily essentials closer to your moving date.
Avoid this mistake by:
- Packing at least 2–3 weeks before your move
- Using a checklist to track each room
- Ordering free packing boxes ahead of time
- Labelling boxes clearly with room and contents
If you need extra space to pack at your own pace, use temporary home storage to keep boxes out of the way.
2. Forgetting to Declutter First
Many people pack everything they own, only to realise half of it doesn’t fit or isn’t needed. Decluttering before you move saves money and time.
Work through your belongings methodically, separating items into keep, donate, sell, or store.
Avoid this mistake by:
- Starting early with our decluttering guide
- Donating unwanted items to local charities
- Using storage for sentimental or seasonal belongings
- Reducing clutter before hiring a removals company
3. Not Comparing Removals Quotes
Removals costs can vary widely depending on distance, volume, and timing. Booking the first company you find might leave you overpaying or underinsured.
Avoid this mistake by:
- Getting at least three written quotes
- Checking reviews and insurance coverage
- Asking about additional charges (stairs, parking, delays)
- Using free collections and removals if you’re storing items with us
Booking early also helps you secure your preferred date, especially during busy times like summer or the end of the month.
4. Underestimating How Much Space You’ll Need
Many movers misjudge how much space their belongings take up — both in the van and in storage. This can lead to multiple trips or last-minute unit upgrades.
Avoid this mistake by:
- Measuring large furniture before moving day
- Using online storage size guides
- Visiting your chosen storage site to check unit sizes
- Asking for advice before booking
You can also view our storage prices and get help choosing the right unit for your needs.
5. Forgetting to Notify Utilities and Services
It’s easy to forget who needs your new address — until you miss a bill or lose access to a service.
Avoid this mistake by:
- Contacting your energy, water, and broadband suppliers at least two weeks before moving
- Redirecting mail through Royal Mail
- Updating your address with banks, insurers, and GP
- Checking council tax details with your new local authority
Create a written checklist to track progress so nothing slips through the cracks.
6. Failing to Label Boxes Properly
Unlabelled boxes cause chaos when you arrive. You’ll end up opening everything just to find your kettle or bed sheets.
Avoid this mistake by:
- Writing the room name and key items on each box
- Colour-coding labels by room
- Writing on the side (not the top) of boxes
- Keeping an inventory of box numbers and contents
If you’re using self storage, clear labelling also makes it easier to find what you need quickly.
7. Forgetting Moving Day Essentials
When everything is packed away, it’s easy to overlook what you’ll actually need on moving day.
Avoid this mistake by:
- Keeping an “essentials box” with:
- Kettle, mugs, tea, and snacks
- Phone chargers
- Cleaning supplies
- Bedding for the first night
- Important documents
- Keeping it with you instead of loading it into the van
Delays can happen, so having these items ready ensures you’re comfortable even if you don’t finish unpacking.
8. Not Protecting Furniture Properly
Scratches, dents, and broken corners are common when moving large furniture. Using the right materials and techniques makes all the difference.
Avoid this mistake by:
- Wrapping furniture in blankets or stretch wrap
- Removing drawers and securing doors with tape
- Using furniture sliders to prevent floor damage
- Storing fragile or bulky furniture safely in secure storage units if needed
If you’re unsure how long furniture will stay packed, consider furniture storage to keep it protected.
9. Moving Everything at Once
Trying to move everything in a single day often leads to exhaustion, mistakes, and broken items.
If possible, move in stages — starting with non-essentials, then essentials closer to your completion date.
Avoid this mistake by:
- Using short-term storage for items you don’t need immediately
- Packing gradually instead of all at once
- Leaving large furniture for professionals
Spreading the move out over a few days can make the process far less stressful.
10. Forgetting About Insurance
Many movers assume their belongings are automatically covered during transit — but that’s not always the case.
Avoid this mistake by:
- Checking if your home insurance covers moving and storage
- Asking your removals company about coverage limits
- Considering separate insurance for valuable items
- Choosing a safe and secure storage provider with 24/7 monitoring
Peace of mind is worth the small extra cost when it comes to protecting your possessions.
Final Thoughts
Moving house doesn’t have to be stressful — most problems can be avoided with a little planning and organisation. By learning from these common mistakes, you can make your next move smoother, faster, and far more manageable.
If you’re planning a move in Manchester, Cheap Storage Manchester can help with home storage, free removals and collections, and 50% off your first 9 weeks.
Visit our contact page to get a quick quote or learn more about how we can make your move easier.
