When moving house, hiring a professional mover can ease a significant amount of the burden. However, packing properly is still critical to ensure a smooth, damage-free transition. Even with expert assistance, poor packing can lead to delays, broken items and added stress. By being mindful of common packing pitfalls, you can save time, protect your belongings and make the most of your removalist’s services. Here are the top packing mistakes to avoid when planning your next move.
1. Procrastinating the Packing Process
One of the most common mistakes people make is leaving packing until the last minute. It’s easy to underestimate how long it takes to pack an entire household. Scrambling to box everything the night before the move can lead to chaos and confusion.
Start packing as early as possible—ideally, a few weeks in advance. Begin with non-essential items such as out-of-season clothing, decorative pieces and books. This staged approach not only helps reduce stress but also gives you time to label everything accurately and discard items you no longer need.
2. Failing to Label Boxes Clearly
It might seem like a minor detail, but clear labelling is essential. Many people skip it, thinking they’ll remember what’s inside each box, only to find themselves rummaging through everything later.
Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to—using large, legible writing or colour-coded stickers. If you’re using a moving business, this step also helps the team place boxes in the correct rooms at your new home, speeding up the unpacking process.
3. Using the Wrong Packing Materials
Another frequent error is using inappropriate or poor-quality materials. Boxes that are too small, too large or not sturdy enough can collapse or be difficult to stack. Newspapers used for wrapping can leave ink marks and unpadded boxes can lead to breakages.
Invest in proper moving supplies such as double-walled boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper and packing tape. If you’re unsure what materials are best, your removalist can often supply or recommend reliable options.
4. Overpacking Boxes
While it may seem efficient to cram as much as possible into each box, overpacking can cause several problems. Heavy boxes are harder to lift and more likely to break open. Fragile items packed tightly without protection are also at greater risk of damage.
Stick to a weight limit of 20 kilograms per box. Use smaller boxes for heavy items like books and larger boxes for lighter belongings such as linens or pillows. This approach makes handling easier for both you and your mover, reducing the chance of injury or damage.
5. Not Taking Inventory
Without an inventory list, it’s easy to lose track of your belongings. This becomes especially problematic if something goes missing or gets damaged during transit.
Take the time to document the contents of each box—either digitally or with a written checklist. Some people photograph box contents for quick visual reference. If your moving business offers an inventory service, take advantage of it to add an extra layer of organisation and security.
6. Packing Hazardous or Prohibited Items
Certain items should never be packed into moving boxes, particularly if you’re using a professional mover. These can include flammable liquids, explosives, perishable food and chemicals. Not only can these items pose a risk, but they may also void any insurance coverage you have.
Check with your mover for a list of restricted items. If in doubt, transport hazardous items yourself or dispose of them safely before moving day.
7. Ignoring Fragile Item Protection
It’s not enough to simply label a box as “fragile.” Delicate items like glassware, ceramics and electronics require careful wrapping and strategic packing. Using clothing or towels for padding might seem clever, but they often don’t provide adequate shock absorption.
Wrap each fragile item individually in bubble wrap or foam and cushion the box with extra padding to prevent movement. Place heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones on top. Your moving expert will appreciate the effort and can stack boxes more safely.
8. Forgetting to Communicate with Your Moving Company
Lastly, a lack of communication with your mover can lead to misunderstandings or delays. Whether it’s changes to your schedule, special handling instructions for fragile items or access issues at the new property, keeping your moving company informed is vital.
Good communication allows your mover to plan properly and ensure your move is as efficient and stress-free as possible. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or share specific concerns—they’re there to help.
Packing may seem straightforward, but avoiding these common mistakes can significantly improve your moving experience. Preparation, clear labelling, using the right materials and communicating with your removalist are all essential to a successful move. With a little foresight and care, you’ll protect your possessions and make settling into your new home a whole lot easier.