15 Common Mistakes When Moving Into a New House – Know These Now

• February 8, 2021
• Bill Chen

Last updated on October 30, 2023

Moving house is a stressful time, with a lot of things to remember. I’ve written many pieces on things to do, and now it’s time for one on what NOT to do. Whether you go solo or use a professional such as your Parramatta or Baulkham Hills removals company, there will be something in here for you.

1. Not hiring the professionals

Going your own way with removals, or enlisting the help of friends and family, may seem like a good budget option, at least in the short term. However, the risk of damage to your things, or injury to your body and that 2 pm on moving day fatigue is all too real. Whether you use the well-reputed removalists North Sydney or the Inner West has to offer, or simply someone you have found from gumtree or Airtasker, it’s a cheaper cost in the long run. 

2. Not taking the time to research the removalists well

Often, we think that all movers are the same. They rock up with 2 or 3 burly blokes who come in and pick up your stuff with slightly gruff tones, load a giant truck, and race to get to your new place and unload quickly. However, not all removal companies were created equal. Some have insurance, some provide packing materials, cleaning services, and more. Make sure to take your time to decide on who to use, not just big names, or the cheapest prices. 

3. Trying to save a buck in the short term

We get it, moving is an expensive exercise. Paying house deposits, or rental bonds, organising a thorough cleaning, etc. But the more you try to save a buck now, as mentioned above, the more expensive it can be for you in the long term. For example, enlisting friends might be cheaper but if they drop your fridge and break it, well that’s a few hundred to thousand dollars or so cost that you wouldn’t have otherwise had. 

4. Moving during peak times

Try not to get caught between 7-10 am and then 3-7 pm on weekdays, and if possible, avoid the summer altogether (everyone rushes to move in summer). 

5. Not decluttering before the move

Trust me – the less stuff you need to move, the smoother the move. 

6. Procrastinating in packing

Better to get in there and get packing in advance as much as possible – nothing is a greater stressor than to have a mad last-minute dash.

7. Bad packing techniques

This can lead to damaged goods or injured bodies. Check out how to pack your stuff to protect against both.

8. Packing non-movable items and liquids

Professional Removalists have items that they just can’t move for you – and often we can forget this or not be aware – leading to removalists declining to take certain boxes. The list of prohibited objects is quite long, and even includes nail polish!

9. Not making a ‘moving essentials’ kit or box

This is the quick access stuff you need on your first night with all the boxes unopened – have it handy so you can still make a quick dinner, set up a bin, or have your toiletries and bathroom essentials easily accessible. 

10. Not taking an inventory of your stuff

For various reasons, things often disappear during moves. Ensure you keep track of things with a list. 

11. Backing up your computer

You don’t have to do this if you take your computer with you, but if it’s going in the removals truck, you definitely want to back it up. 

12. Taking care of your pets

Not just getting them from an old to a new place, but tending to their needs along the way. Unless you get a dog/cat sitter for the day. 

13. Taking care of your plants

You can’t get a plant-sitter, so when you take them, consider the weather impact, and give them shade and water. 

14. Forgetting to change your address

Some address changes should be done ahead of time, others need to be done ASAP. Make sure to not forget. 

15. Keeping your receipts

There are some tax breaks you can get on some items during a move. Worth keeping all your receipts. 

Make sure you don’t fall into these traps whether you’re moving near a beach, the CBD, or moving out to the sticks and you’ll be sure to have a happy move!