Common Moving Mistakes And How To Avoid Them

Common Moving Mistakes — And How to Avoid Them

Moving can be an exciting new chapter, but without the right planning, it can quickly become stressful. At RELOQ Moving Services, we’ve helped hundreds of Massachusetts residents move smoothly, and we’ve seen the same avoidable mistakes come up again and again. Below are four of the most common moving mistakes—and practical tips on how to avoid them for a safer, easier relocation.

1. Not Labeling Boxes Properly

One of the most frequent (and frustrating) mistakes during a move is skipping box labels or labeling them too generally. When boxes aren’t clearly marked, unloading becomes chaotic and finding essential items can take hours—or even days.

How to avoid it:
Label every box with both the room name and a brief description of the contents (for example, “Kitchen – Plates & Glassware”). Mark fragile boxes clearly and use directional arrows for items that must stay upright. This simple step saves time, prevents damage, and helps your movers place boxes exactly where they belong in your new home.

2. Hiring Movers Too Late

Waiting until the last minute to book a professional moving company is a common and costly mistake—especially in Massachusetts, where weekends, month-ends, and summer dates book up fast.

How to avoid it:
Start researching and booking movers 4–6 weeks in advance, or even earlier during peak moving season. Early booking gives you better availability, flexible scheduling, and peace of mind. Reliable movers like RELOQ Moving Services can also help you plan logistics and prepare properly when contacted early.

3. Packing Fragile Items Incorrectly

Improper packing is a major cause of broken dishes, damaged electronics, and scratched furniture. Using the wrong materials—or rushing through packing—often leads to unnecessary losses.

How to avoid it:
Use high-quality packing materials such as bubble wrap, packing paper, sturdy boxes, and protective padding. Wrap fragile items individually, fill empty spaces in boxes, and never overload them. For extra peace of mind, consider professional packing services, especially for valuable or delicate belongings.

4. Underestimating Packing Time

Many people assume packing will take “just a day or two,” only to find themselves overwhelmed and rushing the night before moving day. This often leads to poor packing decisions and added stress.

How to avoid it:
Begin packing at least 2–3 weeks before your move, starting with items you use least. Pack one room at a time and set daily goals. If time is limited, professional movers can help with partial or full packing services to keep everything on schedule.

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