Top 10 Mistakes Everyone Makes When Moving Locally

Moving to a new home—even if it’s just across town—is undeniably stressful. Even though a local move may seem easier than a long-distance one, there are still ways to make it more stressful than it needs to be. Whether you're moving a few blocks away or to a neighboring city, avoiding these pitfalls will save you time, money, and frustration. Here are the top 10 mistakes everyone makes when moving locally.

1. Underestimating the Time Required

Many people assume that because they’re moving locally, they don’t need much time to pack and prepare. However, moving involves more than just loading and unloading a truck. You need time to declutter, pack properly, change your address, and coordinate logistics. Start preparing at least a few weeks in advance to avoid last-minute chaos. This underestimation may apply to move day itself! Things like elevators, stairs, long walk from curb/driveway to front door, large or bulky items can extend the time of a move.

2. Not Decluttering Before Packing

One of the biggest moving mistakes is bringing everything you own without sorting through it first. Moving is the perfect time to declutter and get rid of items you no longer need. Donate, sell, or recycle anything you haven’t used in the past year. This will make packing easier and reduce moving costs.

3. Failing to Label Boxes Properly

A common oversight is packing everything into boxes without labeling them clearly. When you arrive at your new home, you’ll waste time opening random boxes looking for essentials. Use a labeling system that includes the room name and a brief description of the contents, making unpacking much more manageable. If you’re using a moving company, properly labeled boxes with the room clearly marked means the movers will take less time placing items at destination.

4. Not Packing an Essentials Box

On moving day, you’ll need immediate access to essentials like toiletries, medications, chargers, snacks, and a change of clothes. Many people forget to set these items aside, leading to unnecessary stress. Pack an essentials box and keep it with you rather than in the moving truck. Moving with kids and/or pets? Make sure you’ve set aside their must-haves too!

5. Choosing the Wrong Moving Company

Even for a local move, hiring a reputable moving company is crucial. Some people book the first company they find without checking reviews or verifying their credentials. This can lead to unreliable service, damaged belongings, or hidden fees. Always research multiple companies, read customer reviews, and get a written estimate before committing. Obtaining three estimates is recommended prior to making a choice.

6. Not Reserving a Moving Truck in Advance

If you're handling the move yourself, don’t wait until the last minute to rent a truck. Many people assume trucks are always available, but they can be in high demand, especially on weekends and the end of the month. Reserve your truck well in advance to secure the right size and avoid last-minute scrambling. (If you’re hiring a mover - be sure to get your estimates and book your mover well in advance to avoid missing out on the date you need service.)

7. Forgetting to Notify Important Parties About the Move

Moving locally doesn’t mean you can skip updating your address. Many people forget to notify their bank, employer, utility companies, and postal service, leading to missed bills and delayed mail. Make a checklist and update your address with all necessary organizations before moving day.

8. Packing Heavy Items in Large Boxes

It’s tempting to use big boxes for everything, but heavy items like books, dishes, and electronics should go in smaller boxes to prevent strain and breakage. Overpacked boxes can also break under their weight, making the move more difficult. Distribute weight evenly to make boxes easier to carry. (Pro tip - use sturdy boxes or totes for your local move - don’t pack items in garbage bags or laundry baskets.)

9. Not Measuring Doorways and Furniture

Nothing is more frustrating than realizing your couch or bed frame won’t fit through your new home's doorway. Before moving day, measure your furniture and doorways to avoid unexpected problems. If necessary, disassemble large pieces in advance to make the process smoother.

10. Skipping the Walkthrough

Whether you’re moving yourself or hiring movers, a walkthrough of your home prior to loading things out to the truck and after the loading has been completed is an essential step. Skipping either walkthrough can result in miscommunication, missed or forgotten items, and delays. A walkthrough in advance clarifies your plan - especially key if you’re bringing movers in, this is the time to provide direction; a walkthrough afterwards ensures all items to be moved have been collected, identifies any damage that may have occurred, and can be a good time to remind your movers about the plan for destination.

Wrapping Up

Moving may seem straightforward, but avoiding these common local moving mistakes will make the process far easier and less stressful. Plan ahead, stay organized, and take the time to declutter before packing. With a little preparation, your local move can be smooth, efficient, and hassle-free!

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