10 Things Most People Forget on Moving Day (And How to Avoid Them)

Moving Day can be chaotic, boxes everywhere, movers coming in and out, and a never-ending list of to-dos. No matter how well you plan, there are always a few things that slip through the cracks. At A2B Moving & Delivery, we’ve helped hundreds of families and individuals move, and we’ve seen firsthand the most common things people forget.

Here’s your quick, shareable checklist of the 10 most forgotten things on moving day; and how you can avoid them.

1. Essentials Bag

The Problem: People often pack away everything, including medications, chargers, snacks, and important documents.

How to Avoid It:
Pack a small overnight bag with:

• Toiletries 
• Chargers 
• Prescription meds 
• Wallet & keys 
• A change of clothes 
• Moving paperwork 

This bag should travel with you, not in the moving truck.

2. Labeling Boxes Clearly

The Problem: Rushed packing leads to poorly labeled boxes or missing labels altogether.

How to Avoid It:
Label each box with:

• Contents 
• Destination room 
• “Fragile” or “Heavy” indicators if needed 

Bonus tip: Use color-coded tape for each room!

3. Snacks & Hydration

The Problem: Moving day is physically exhausting, and people forget to eat or drink enough water.

How to Avoid It:
Keep a cooler with water bottles, energy bars, and fruit on hand for you and your movers.

4. Phone Chargers & Power Strips

The Problem: Devices die at the worst times, and outlets can be scarce in the new home.

How to Avoid It:
Put phone chargers, portable batteries, and a couple of power strips in your essentials bag.

5. Taking Out the Trash

The Problem: Trash piles up during packing, and no one wants to come back for it later.

How to Avoid It:
Leave a trash bag or bin in each room and designate one person to do a final sweep.

6. Checking Cabinets, Closets & Drawers

The Problem: People forget items tucked away in high cabinets, bathroom drawers, or the attic.

How to Avoid It:
Do a walkthrough with a checklist of “easy-to-miss” places:

• Medicine cabinets 
• Dishwasher 
• Washer/dryer units 
• Garage shelves 
• Outdoor storage 

7. Keys and Garage Openers

The Problem: Keys to the old place, mailbox, or garage are often forgotten or misplaced.

How to Avoid It:
Put them in a labeled envelope and hand them directly to the new owner or property manager.

8. Unplugging Appliances and Defrosting the Freezer

The Problem: Movers arrive to find wet, leaky fridges or connected washers.

How to Avoid It:
Unplug appliances 24 hours in advance and leave doors open to prevent mold and leaks.

9. Pet and Kid Essentials

The Problem: Kids and pets can feel anxious during the move, and their comfort items often get packed.

How to Avoid It:
Keep a separate bag with:

• Favorite toys or comfort items 
• Snacks or formula 
• Pet food, leash, and litter supplies 

Set up their new space first to help them settle.

10. Mail Forwarding and Utility Transfers

The Problem: Important mail goes to the wrong address or utilities are not activated.

How to Avoid It:

• Visit USPS.com to forward your mail 
• Schedule disconnects/transfers with internet, gas, electricity, and water companies 1–2 weeks in advance 

Final Thoughts

A little preparation goes a long way on moving day. Use this list to avoid last-minute stress, and if you’re looking for a reliable, friendly, and professional team to help — A2B Moving & Delivery has your back.

📦 Need help with your move?
Contact us today for a free quote or to ask questions about your upcoming move.