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Top 10 Packing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Alan Stephenson • June 12, 2024

Packing doesn’t have to be a nightmare

A person is writing fragile on a cardboard box with a marker.

Moving can be a stressful time, but avoiding common packing mistakes can make the process much smoother. At AJ Stephenson Removals & Storage, we’ve seen it all and are here to share our expertise to help you avoid these pitfalls. 


Here are the top 10 packing mistakes and how to avoid them:


1. Procrastination


Mistake: Leaving packing until the last minute.


How to Avoid: Start early and pack a little each day. Create a packing schedule and stick to it to avoid the rush and stress.


2. Overpacking Boxes


Mistake: Filling boxes until they are too heavy to lift.


How to Avoid: Keep boxes under 22kg (50lbs) to prevent damage and injury. Use smaller boxes for heavier items like books.

3. Ignoring Labeling


Mistake: Not labelling boxes properly.


How to Avoid: Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. This will make unpacking much easier.


4. Skipping the Declutter


Mistake: Packing items you no longer need or use.


How to Avoid: Take the opportunity to declutter. Donate, sell, or dispose of items you don’t need before packing.

moving boxes labelled up for moving day

5. Not Using Proper Packing Materials


Mistake: Using low-quality or inappropriate packing materials.


How to Avoid: Invest in quality boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, and sturdy tape to protect your belongings during the move.


6. Forgetting an Essentials Box


Mistake: Packing away all essentials and struggling to find them upon arrival.


How to Avoid: Pack a separate box with essentials such as toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, and basic kitchen items.


7. Packing Hazardous Materials


Mistake: Including items that are unsafe to move.


How to Avoid: Familiarise yourself with the list of items that movers won’t transport and dispose of hazardous materials properly.

A woman is peeking out from behind a cardboard box

8. Not Wrapping Breakables


Mistake: Failing to wrap fragile items adequately.


How to Avoid: Wrap each fragile item individually with bubble wrap or packing paper and label the box as fragile.


9. Ignoring Weight Distribution


Mistake: Unevenly packing boxes, causing them to tip over.


How to Avoid: Distribute weight evenly by placing heavier items at the bottom and lighter items on top.

10. Overfilling Wardrobe Boxes


Mistake: Stuffing wardrobe boxes too full, leading to damaged clothes and boxes.


How to Avoid: Only fill wardrobe boxes to a manageable level. Use smaller boxes for shoes and accessories.


Final Thoughts


Packing doesn’t have to be a nightmare. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure a smoother, more efficient move. At AJ Stephenson Removals & Storage, we’re here to help every step of the way. Whether you need packing materials, tips, or professional packing services, we’ve got you covered.


Let’s make your moving day a breeze!

Alan Stephenson of AJ Stephenson Removals Billericay
Alan Stephenson

If you have a question about this or any of our blogs, or services then please do not hesitate to get in touch. 

We will always try and answer your question quickly and professionally. 
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