10 Packing Mistakes to Avoid on Moving Day

May 27, 2025

10 Packing Mistakes to Avoid on Moving Day

Ten simple errors that lead to broken items, back pain and extra stress.

Introduction

Most moving disasters don’t happen in the truck — they start with poor packing. Overloaded boxes, random labelling, last-minute panic… all avoidable. Whether you’re packing a small apartment or a large family home, avoiding these common mistakes can make the difference between a smooth move and a stressful one.

Here are the top packing mistakes to watch out for — and how to do it right from the start.

1. Overpacking Boxes

Yes, you want to make the most of each box. No, you shouldn’t pack 30kg of books into one. Overfilled boxes are hard to lift, more likely to split, and risk damaging the items inside.

Solution:

Use small boxes for heavy items like books, bottles and kitchenware. Small 40L Moving Box

2. Not Labelling Clearly

A box labelled “misc” tells you nothing. And opening every box just to find a kettle gets old fast.

Solution - Label each box with:

Room
Contents
“Fragile” or “Heavy” where needed

Need help? Read our full guide on How to label moving boxes properly

3. Packing Random Items Together

Mixing kitchen mugs with bathroom towels and random stationery leads to a chaotic unpack.

Solution:

Pack by room and category. It keeps items organised and easier to unpack.

4. Leaving It Too Late

Packing always takes longer than you think. Last-minute packing is rushed, messy, and often results in damage.

Solution:

Start with non-essentials 2–3 weeks out. Use our Room-by-room packing checklist

5. Not Wrapping Fragile Items

Assuming your crockery will “be fine” in a box is a fast way to lose your favourite mugs.

Solution:

Use packing paper or bubble wrap on all breakables.
Add cushioning at the base and top of every box.

6. Using Weak or Damaged Boxes

Supermarket boxes or re-used cartons often collapse under weight or tear during lifting.

Solution:

Use strong, double-walled moving boxes. They’re designed to hold weight and stack cleanly. Moving Box Bundles

7. Forgetting an Essentials Box

Nothing worse than needing a towel, charger or kettle — and having no idea where to find it.

Solution:

Pack one clearly marked essentials box with everything you’ll need for the first 24–48 hours.
Here’s What to pack in your first-night essentials box

8. Ignoring Box Weight Limits

Just because it fits, doesn’t mean you should lift it.

Solution:

Keep each box under 20–25kg where possible. Use smaller boxes for heavier items and large boxes for light, bulky things like pillows or clothing.

9. Forgetting to Disassemble Furniture

Trying to fit an assembled desk through a door = frustration and dents.

Solution:

Disassemble large furniture ahead of time. Keep screws and parts in a zip-lock bag taped to the item.
See our tips on How to pack furniture and bulky items