Packing may seem like the easiest part of moving, but it's often where people make the biggest mistakes. From broken valuables to last-minute scrambling, poor packing can add unnecessary stress, increase moving costs, and even delay your move.
At TWO MEN AND A TRUCK®, we've helped thousands of families move successfully, and we've seen firsthand what works—and what doesn't. Avoid these common packing mistakes to save yourself time, money, and headaches on moving day.
1. Waiting Until The Last Minute
One of the biggest mistakes people make is underestimating how long packing takes. Packing an entire home isn't something that can usually be completed in a single weekend.
Pro Tip: Start packing non-essential items at least 3-4 weeks before your move. Pack a little each day to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
2. Using the Wrong Boxes
Not all boxes are created equal. Grocery store boxes or worn-out cardboard boxes may collapse under the weight of your belongings, leading to damaged items.
Instead, use sturdy moving boxes designed for:
Books
Kitchen items
Clothing
Electronics
Dish ware
Using the correct box sizes also makes stacking safer inside the moving truck.
3. Overpacking Boxes
It's tempting to fill every box to the top, but heavy boxes are difficult to lift and more likely to break.
For example:
Books belong in small boxes.
Linens and pillows should go in large boxes.
If a box is too heavy for you to lift comfortably, it's probably too heavy!
4. Forgetting to Label Everything
Imagine arriving at your new home and having 40 identical boxes with no labels.
Clearly label each box with:
The room it belongs in
A brief description of the contents
Whether it's fragile
Taking a few extra seconds now will save hours during unpacking.
5. Not Protecting Fragile Items
Wrapping dishes in newspaper alone usually isn't enough.
Use packing paper, bubble wrap, or towels to cushion fragile belongings. Fill empty space inside boxes so items can't shift during transportation.
Remember: If items can move inside the box, they can break.
6. Packing Items Movers Can't Transport
Many people don't realize professional movers cannot transport certain hazardous or perishable items.
These often include:
Paint
Gasoline
Propane tanks
Aerosol cans
Fireworks
Cleaning chemicals
Perishable food
Ask your moving company ahead of time for a list of non-allowable items.
7. Mixing Heavy and Fragile Items
Putting heavy objects on top of delicate items is a recipe for broken belongings.
Pack similar items together and always place heavier boxes on the bottom during loading.
8. Forgetting an Essentials Box
The first night in your new home is much easier when you have the necessities within reach.
Pack one clearly marked box or suitcase containing:
Toiletries
Phone chargers
Medications
Important documents
Basic tools
Snacks
Coffee maker or kettle
A change of clothes
Keep this box with you rather than loading it onto the moving truck.
9. Not Taking Furniture Apart Ahead of Time
Waiting until moving day to disassemble beds, tables, or shelving can slow down the entire move.
If possible:
Remove table legs
Take apart bed frames
Empty dressers and cabinets when necessary
Place screws and hardware in labeled plastic bags
Pro Tip: Tape the bags securely to the corresponding piece of furniture so nothing gets lost.
10. Trying to Do Everything Yourself
Packing and moving are physically demanding. Many people believe they'll save money by handling everything alone, but damaged belongings, injuries, truck rentals, and extra time off work can quickly outweigh those savings.
Professional movers have the experience, equipment, and packing materials needed to move your belongings efficiently and safely.
Make your Move Easier
A little preparation goes a long way toward making moving day less stressful. Avoiding these common packing mistakes can protect your belongings, save valuable time, and help your move stay on schedule.
If packing feels overwhelming, remember—you don't have to do it alone. At TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® Milford/Waterbury, our professionally trained team can assist with packing, unpacking, loading, transportation, and even storage solutions. Whether you're moving across town or across the state, we're here to make your move as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Ready to get moving? Contact TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® Milford/Waterbury today for a free estimate and let our Movers Who Care® handle the heavy lifting.
