Moving home should be an exciting milestone — not a source of headaches and regrets. At SpaceItOut, we’ve helped countless families and businesses relocate smoothly across New Zealand. Over the years, we’ve seen the same moving mistakes trip people up again and again. Let’s uncover the most common pitfalls and how you can steer clear of them for a stress-free move.
1. Failing to Plan Ahead
One of the biggest moving mistakes to avoid is poor planning. Starting a move without setting a timeline often leads to last-minute chaos. According to industry experts, “failing to plan ahead” is one of the most common errors that result in stress and delays lunardimoving.comMoveAdvisor.
Tip: Create a moving timeline at least a month in advance. Break it down into weeks — packing, booking movers, organizing utilities — so you’re always a step ahead.
2. Skipping Decluttering
Moving is the perfect chance to evaluate what truly matters. Packing and moving everything you own — including unnecessary or unused items — adds cost, time, and clutter LivingetcSouthern Living.
Tip: Declutter early. Sell or donate items you don’t need. Your new home will feel lighter and more intentional.
3. Not Labeling Boxes
When boxes arrive unlabeled or packed haphazardly, unpacking becomes chaotic. Labels help both you and your movers know where items belong, which speeds up settling into your new space Better Homes & GardensThe Spruce.
Tip: Label each box clearly with the room and general contents (e.g., “Kitchen – Utensils”). For fragile items, add “FRAGILE” in bold.
4. Underestimating Packing Time
Packing often takes longer than anticipated. Starting late puts you on a tight schedule — increasing the risk of forgetting essentials or damaging items lunardimoving.comThe Spruce.
Tip: Begin packing non-essentials (like seasonal items) 3–4 weeks before the move. Save daily-use items for the final days.
5. Forgetting an Essentials Box
One top moving mistake? Not keeping essentials close during and right after the move. You don’t want to rifle through boxes just to find toothbrushes or bedding Noble Moving and StorageBetter Homes & Gardens.
Tip: Pack a “Day 1” box or suitcase with toiletries, a couple of outfits, phone chargers, key documents, snacks, and bedding.
6. Ignoring Utilities and Service Transfers
Arriving at your new home without gas, electricity, or internet is more than inconvenient — it can be unfortunate Consumer NZBetter Homes & Gardens.
Tip: Arrange transfers at least two weeks in advance. Also notify insurers and post offices of your address change.
7. Choosing Movers Without Research
Choosing movers based on price alone can backfire. Unlicensed or unvetted movers may underdeliver, damage your belongings, or end up costing more in the long run MoveAdvisorLivingetc.
Tip: Request quotes from multiple trusted movers. Check reviews, licenses, and insurance. Ask for an in-home estimate to avoid surprise costs MoveAdvisormovingle.co.nz.
8. Ignoring Pets & Kids on Move Day
Having pets or young kids amid the chaos of moving day can be risky — and stressful for everyone Conroy Removals NZ.
Tip: Arrange pet or childcare for moving day so family and movers can focus without distractions or accidents.
FAQs (at least 5)
- How far ahead should I plan my move?
Aim for 4–6 weeks ahead. This gives you time for packing, booking movers, and managing logistics. - What should go in my essentials box?
Include basics like toiletries, medication, clothes, chargers, snacks, and important documents — anything you’ll need first. - Should I switch utilities myself?
Yes — arranging utilities (internet, power, etc.) at least two weeks in advance prevents disruptions. - Are in-home quotes better than estimates over the phone?
Absolutely. A walkthrough helps movers give precise prices and avoid hidden costs later. - How do I choose a reliable moving company?
Look for licensed movers with good reviews. Also check insurance, ask for in-home quotes, and compare services.