10 Common Moving Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

Moving home is exciting, but let’s be honest, it can also be one of the most stressful experiences life throws at us. From packing chaos to last-minute panics, there’s a lot that can go wrong if things aren’t planned properly, but it doesn’t have to be that way. 

At On The Dot Removals, we’ve helped countless people move house across Bristol and beyond. Along the way, we’ve seen plenty of easily avoidable pitfalls. Whether you’re moving for the first time or it’s your fifth go, here are ten common moving mistakes we see time and again and how you can steer clear of them.

1. Underestimating How Much Time It’ll Take

One of the biggest mistakes people make is thinking they can pack up their entire home in just a few days. In reality, moving takes longer than you might expect, especially since life doesn’t stop just because you’re moving house. The best approach? Start early. Give yourself at least six weeks to get ready. That allows you to organise, sort through your possessions gradually, and handle any surprises. We help our clients create realistic timelines so nothing is left until the last minute. Trust us, your future self will thank you.

2. Skipping the Declutter

It’s amazing how much stuff we accumulate over time and a move is the perfect opportunity to be a bit ruthless. Too often, people pack absolutely everything, only to unpack it at the other end and wonder why they bothered. Instead of boxing up every single item you own, take time to declutter before you begin packing. It’ll save you money on packing materials and moving costs, plus you’ll start fresh in your new space. If you’re not sure where to start, we can assist with house clearances and even point you towards local charities or recycling centres.

3. Forgetting to Update Your Address

When you’re knee-deep in boxes, it’s easy to forget to let people know you’re moving. However, missing a post or delayed bills can be more than a hassle; it can cause serious disruption. A couple of weeks before you move, put together a list of everywhere your address needs to be updated: your bank, GP, workplace, utility providers and so on. If you’re working with us, we’ll even send you a checklist to keep things simple.

4. Poor Packing Practices

Packing might seem straightforward, but it’s easy to get it wrong. Overfilled boxes that split open, unlabeled boxes that get lost in the shuffle, it all adds unnecessary stress.

The key is to pack room by room, label everything clearly, and keep similar items together. Use smaller boxes for heavier items and leave sufficient space for padding to prevent damage in transit. If it all feels like too much, we offer a professional packing service using sustainable, high-quality removal boxes, all done with care by our experienced team.

5. Not Measuring Furniture or Doorways

There’s nothing worse than arriving at your new home only to realise your sofa won’t fit through the door. It’s more common than you think, and it’s completely avoidable.

Before the big day, take measurements of your larger furniture and the entry points in your new property. This simple step can save a lot of swearing, stress and scratched paintwork. When you book with us, we’ll help you work out what fits where and offer solutions if anything needs disassembling or reconfiguring.

6. Leaving Utilities and Internet Set-Up Too Late

Imagine moving in and realising there’s no Wi-Fi, no hot water, and no way to charge your phone. It’s a surprisingly common hiccup. Avoid the scramble by arranging utility transfers and broadband installation a couple of weeks before you move. You’ll be glad you sorted it when you’re relaxing with a cuppa in your new kitchen, rather than calling providers from your mobile while sitting on a box.

7. Ignoring Moving Insurance

Many people assume their home insurance covers their belongings during a move, but that’s not always the case. If something breaks or goes missing, you could be out of pocket.

It’s worth checking with your insurer well ahead of time and considering additional cover if needed. At On The Dot Removals, we offer insurance options for peace of mind, so your prized possessions are protected from start to finish.

8. Booking a Removals Company Too Late (or Choosing on Price Alone)

Leaving it too late to book your removal team can limit your options and leave you with a service that’s less than reliable. While we all love a good deal, the cheapest option isn’t always the best one.

Choose a local, experienced company that knows the area and understands the challenges of moving in and around Bristol. We pride ourselves on our reputation for reliability, flexibility and brilliant customer service and we always recommend booking early to secure your ideal date for your removal day.

9. Forgetting the Essentials Box

After a long day of moving, the last thing you want to do is dig through dozens of boxes just to find your toothbrush or the kettle.

That’s why packing a move-in essentials box is a lifesaver. Include things like snacks, chargers, toiletries, a change of clothes, and anything you’ll want to have immediately. It’s a small step that makes a big difference and we always remind our customers to set one aside before move day.

10. Not Checking Parking or Access Restrictions

This one catches people out all the time, especially if you’re moving to a busy street or into a flat. Without proper access, your removal team might not be able to park, leading to delays and frustration.

Check with your local council ahead of time to see if you need a permit or space reservation. We know the ins and outs of Bristol’s parking zones and can advise you on what needs arranging, so nothing slows you down on the day.

Make Your Move with Confidence

Moving doesn’t have to be stressful. By avoiding these common mistakes and with a little help from a friendly, experienced removal team, you can look forward to a smooth, stress-free transition to your new home.

At On The Dot Removals, we go beyond just lifting boxes. We offer expert packing services, eco-conscious materials, detailed planning support and a warm, reliable team that’s helped hundreds of Bristolians move with ease.

Planning your move? Let’s make it simple. Get in touch today to book your move or request a free quote.