Moving is an exciting yet overwhelming process. With so many tasks to juggle, it’s easy to forget essential steps that can make your move smoother. At MovePlus, we’ve helped countless clients avoid moving day hiccups, so we’re sharing the top things people forget when moving—and how you can stay ahead of the game.
1. Updating Your Address Everywhere: A Common Thing People Forget When Moving
Changing your address is one of the most important tasks when moving, but many people only update it with the post office. It’s crucial to notify all relevant parties, including your bank, insurance providers, and utility companies. Failing to update your address can lead to missed bills, lost mail, and service disruptions.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to update your address for online shopping accounts, medical records, and any ongoing subscriptions. Making a checklist can help you track your progress and ensure nothing slips through the cracks.
2. Collecting Spare Keys Before Moving Day
Spare keys can easily be forgotten during the moving process. Whether it’s a spare for the front door, garage, or mailbox, leaving these behind can cause problems for the new occupants. On the flip side, you’ll want to collect any spare keys for your new home.
Pro Tip: Label all keys before moving to stay organized. If you’re unsure about existing spares, consider rekeying your locks after moving into your new place.
3. Backing Up Important Documents—A Critical Thing People Forget When Moving
During the chaos of moving, it’s common for critical documents like passports, birth certificates, or financial records to get misplaced. These items are essential, so losing them can create unnecessary stress and delays.
Pro Tip: Scan important documents and save digital copies as a backup. Keep originals in a clearly labeled folder or lockbox that you carry with you on moving day.
4. Packing a ‘First-Day’ Box with Moving Essentials
Your first night in a new home can be overwhelming, especially if you can’t find basic items like toiletries or chargers. A first-day box ensures you have everything you need without rummaging through multiple boxes.
Pro Tip: Include items like medications, paper towels, and basic cleaning supplies in your first-day box. If you’re moving with kids or pets, pack their essentials separately to avoid meltdowns on moving day.
5. Arranging Utility Transfers—A Key Thing People Forget When Moving
One of the most overlooked steps when moving is setting up or transferring utilities. Without careful planning, you may arrive at your new home to find no electricity, water, or internet.
Pro Tip: Contact utility providers at least two weeks before moving day to schedule service changes. Make a list of all utilities—like gas, electricity, water, trash, and internet—and confirm the transfer dates.
6. Taking Photos of Electronics Setup
Disconnecting electronics like TVs, gaming consoles, and routers is easy, but reconnecting them without reference can be a frustrating puzzle. Forgetting this step can lead to wasted time and potential technical issues.
Pro Tip: Use your phone to take photos of your electronics’ wiring before you pack them. Label cords and keep them in clear bags for easy identification when you’re ready to set them up again.
7. Not Decluttering Before Packing
Packing without decluttering first is a common mistake, and it often results in unnecessary stress and higher moving costs. Moving is the perfect opportunity to evaluate what you truly need and let go of items you no longer use.
Pro Tip: Start decluttering weeks before your move, focusing on one room at a time. Donate usable items to local charities or organizations like the Niagara Warehouse of Hope. MovePlus also offers professional decluttering services to make this process even easier.
8. Emptying Hidden Storage Areas: A Sneaky Thing People Forget When Moving
It’s easy to forget about storage spaces like attic shelves, basement corners, or even under-the-bed storage. Overlooking these areas can lead to leaving behind valuables or creating unnecessary follow-ups after the move.
Pro Tip: Do a thorough walkthrough of your entire home, checking closets, cabinets, and storage spaces. Don’t forget less obvious spots, like the garden shed or garage rafters.
Moving is a complex process, and it’s easy to overlook the small details. By staying organized and addressing these commonly forgotten tasks, you can make your move smoother and less stressful. At MovePlus, we specialize in stress-free moving solutions for seniors and families alike.
Don’t let the details overwhelm you! Contact MovePlus today for expert help with downsizing, decluttering, and relocation services. Let’s make your move as seamless as possible.
