What Not to Do When Moving a House: Common Mistakes to Avoid

Moving house is a big step — one that brings excitement, change, and fresh opportunities. But it’s also a process filled with potential pitfalls. From underestimating how long packing will take to forgetting essential tasks, mistakes made during a house move can lead to stress, wasted money, and unnecessary chaos.

Understanding what not to do when moving a house is just as important as knowing the steps you should take. By avoiding common errors, you’ll make the process smoother, more affordable, and far less stressful.

1. Don’t Leave Packing Until the Last Minute

One of the biggest mistakes people make is underestimating how long packing will take. You might think it’s just a matter of throwing things into boxes, but in reality, careful packing requires time, organisation, and the right materials.

• Why it’s a problem: Rushed packing often leads to broken items, poorly labelled boxes, and extra stress on moving day.

  
  

• What to do instead: Start packing non-essential items six to eight weeks before your move. Work through your home room by room, and clearly label every box.

  
  

2. Don’t Forget to Declutter

Moving everything you own might seem easier, but it only adds unnecessary time, cost, and effort.

• Why it’s a problem: You’ll pay to transport items you don’t really need or use, only to clutter your new home.

  
  

• What to do instead: Use your move as an opportunity to declutter. Donate, sell, or recycle anything you no longer want. The fewer boxes you have, the cheaper and quicker your move will be.

  
  

3. Don’t Book a Removal Company Too Late

Many people wait until the last possible moment to secure movers. This is one of the most common and costly mistakes.

• Why it’s a problem: Removal companies book up quickly, especially on Fridays, weekends, and during summer. Leaving it too late may mean higher prices or limited availability.

  
  

• What to do instead: Book your removal service at least four to six weeks in advance, and even earlier if moving during peak seasons. If you’re arranging home removals Coventry, booking ahead ensures you’ll get the date and time that suits you best.

  
  

4. Don’t Forget to Notify Key Organisations

Amidst the chaos of moving, it’s easy to forget to update your address with important services.

• Why it’s a problem: Failure to update your details can lead to missed bills, lost mail, or even problems with banks and insurance.

  
  

• What to do instead: Make a checklist of everyone who needs your new address — from your employer and GP to your utility providers and the DVLA.

  
  

5. Don’t Underestimate Moving Costs

It’s tempting to assume your only expense will be the removal service itself, but many hidden costs often creep in.

• Why it’s a problem: Packing materials, storage fees, childcare, and cleaning costs all add up and can throw your budget off track.

  
  

• What to do instead: Create a moving budget that includes everything from bubble wrap to takeaway meals for moving day.

  
  

6. Don’t Overpack Boxes

It may feel efficient to cram as much as possible into each box, but overpacking is a recipe for disaster.

• Why it’s a problem: Boxes become too heavy to carry safely, and fragile items inside are more likely to break.

  
  

• What to do instead: Keep boxes at a manageable weight, and pack heavier items (like books) in smaller boxes. Always cushion fragile items with plenty of protective material.

  
  

7. Don’t Neglect Insurance

Accidents can happen, even with the most careful planning.

• Why it’s a problem: If something valuable breaks or gets damaged, you could be left out of pocket without proper insurance.

  
  

• What to do instead: Check whether your removal company provides insurance or if your home insurance covers moving. For valuable items, consider additional cover.

  
  

8. Don’t Forget to Prepare for Moving Day Itself

Many people spend so much time packing and organising that they forget about the practicalities of the big day.

• Why it’s a problem: Lack of preparation can lead to delays, frustration, and a stressful start to your new home.

  
  

• What to do instead: Pack a moving day essentials bag with toiletries, chargers, snacks, paperwork, and a change of clothes. Make sure children or pets are looked after, and confirm parking arrangements for the moving van.

  
  

9. Don’t Try to Do It All Alone

It might be tempting to save money by attempting the move yourself, but this often leads to exhaustion and unexpected problems.

• Why it’s a problem: Heavy lifting without the right equipment can cause injury. Without a van, you’ll need multiple trips. Plus, moving day takes far longer without professional help.

  
  

• What to do instead: Hiring professionals makes the process faster, safer, and less stressful. A trusted removal firm Coventry can handle everything from lifting furniture to navigating tricky access points, leaving you free to focus on settling in.

  
  

10. Don’t Forget to Take Care of Yourself

Amid the chaos of moving, many people forget the basics — eating, hydrating, and resting.

• Why it’s a problem: Exhaustion makes you less efficient and more likely to make mistakes.

  
  

• What to do instead: Take regular breaks, stay hydrated, and make sure you eat proper meals, even if they’re simple.

  
  

Quick Recap: The Top Things Not to Do

To make your move as smooth as possible, avoid these mistakes:

1. Don’t leave packing until the last minute.

   
   

2. Don’t move without decluttering first.

   
   

3. Don’t delay booking your removal company.

   
   

4. Don’t forget to update your address.

   
   

5. Don’t underestimate moving costs.

   
   

6. Don’t overpack boxes.

   
   

7. Don’t ignore insurance.

   
   

8. Don’t forget moving day essentials.

   
   

9. Don’t try to move everything alone.

   
   

10. Don’t neglect your own wellbeing.

    
    

Final Thoughts

Moving house doesn’t have to be stressful, but it does require careful planning and awareness of common mistakes. By knowing what not to do, you’ll avoid unnecessary headaches and ensure your move goes as smoothly as possible.

Start preparing early, budget realistically, and don’t be afraid to seek professional help. If you’re moving locally, working with experts in removals Coventry can take a huge weight off your shoulders. A reliable removal company Coventry will not only save you time and effort but also give you peace of mind that your belongings are in safe hands.

Avoid the pitfalls, plan ahead, and you’ll be free to enjoy the excitement of settling into your new home.