Top 10 Moving Mistakes to Avoid
Learn from thousands of house moves. These are the most common mistakes people make — and exactly how to avoid them.
1. Leaving it Too Late to Book
Summer Saturdays and school holiday Fridays book up weeks in advance. If you have a confirmed completion date, book your removal company the same day. Last-minute availability often means higher prices and less choice.
2. Underestimating How Much You Have
People consistently underestimate the volume of their belongings. Walk through every room, loft, garage, and outbuilding when getting quotes. The number one cause of unexpected additional costs is 'we forgot about the garage'.
3. Not Getting Written Confirmation
Always get your quote, date, and service details confirmed in writing — email is fine. If anything is agreed verbally, follow up with 'Just to confirm our conversation...' This protects you and the company.
4. Not Defrosting the Freezer
Your removal team cannot transport a frost-filled freezer. Defrost it at least 24 hours before your move day and clean it out thoroughly. It's a small job that causes huge problems if forgotten.
5. Packing Everything in Boxes Too Heavy to Carry
Books especially — people pack huge boxes full of books that then can't be moved safely. Books should go in small boxes. Use larger boxes for light items like duvets, cushions, and lampshades.
6. Not Taking Meter Readings
Take gas, electricity, and water meter readings at both your old and new property on move day. Photograph them with your phone timestamp. This protects you from billing disputes.
7. Forgetting to Cancel or Transfer Services
Milk deliveries, subscription boxes, online grocery deliveries, and Amazon — they'll all be heading to your old address if you don't update them. Create a list and work through it systematically.
8. Packing Valuables in the Removal Van
Jewellery, important documents, passports, and valuable sentimental items should travel with you in your car, not in the van. Label a bag the night before and keep it separate.
9. Not Photographing Valuables Before the Move
For insurance purposes, photograph valuable items before your move — furniture, electronics, art. If anything is damaged in transit, you'll need evidence of its pre-move condition.
10. Not Tipping Your Removal Team
Moving is hard physical work. If your team has done a great job, a tip is genuinely appreciated. There's no set rule, but £10–£20 per person is generous and very much acknowledged.
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