Packing might seem relatively straightforward, but there are many common mistakes homeowners make. Whether it’s because they’re lazy, they’re in a rush, they didn’t hire movers, or they just don’t know any better, here are the mistakes too many people make when moving. Make sure to avoid them to ensure your move goes smoothly and your belongings stay safe and protected.

1. Not Making a Packing Plan

It might seem like it will save time to dive right in and start packing, but packing without a plan can actually make the process longer and less efficient. Before you put any item in a box, think more strategically about what you’re packing where and why. Being organized will help you unpack more easily.

2. Not Sorting

Again, sorting your belongings before packing them might seem like it’ll take too much time, but at the end of the day, it can save you money and an immense amount of time. You shouldn’t bring items with you to your new home that you’re not going to use again. If it’s broken or you have no use for it, donate it or throw it away.

Sorting what you want to keep from what you want to give away will help you reduce the number of boxes you need to pack and the amount of time it’ll take to pack them—and unpack them.

3. Not Enough Supplies

Run out of packing tape? You might try to use another type of tape to tide you over, like Scotch tape or electrical tape. This can lead to boxes that aren’t securely closed, risking the safety of the items inside. Not having enough boxes can also lead to you overstuffing the boxes you do have.

Not having enough paper or bubble wrap can lead to breakages. It’s better to have more than too little, so many sure you have enough supplies when you start packing.

4. Overpacking

Speaking of overstuffing your boxes, this is a very common mistake homeowners make when moving. They buy extra-large boxes and shove as much as they can in them, not realizing how heavy it’ll make the boxes during the move. This can lead to boxes that break at the bottom, leading to damages. It’s also unsafe for the person moving the boxes.

5. Using the Wrong Sized Boxes

If you have tons of books, it might make sense to you to keep them altogether and pack them in a big box. That’s not what big boxes are for, however. Heavy items should be placed in smaller boxes, while lighter items, such as pillow and blankets, should be placed in bigger boxes.

6. Not Taking Care When Packing Fragile Items

There is a right way and a wrong way to pack fragile items. And, of course, packing them the wrong way will increase your risk of breakage. It may take more time and care to ensure these items are safe, but it’ll be worth it in the end. Always wrap up fragile items using plenty of bubble wrap, packing paper, blankets, or towels to make sure they get to your new home in one piece.

7. Packing Forbidden Items

Many homeowners don’t realize that there are forbidden items that aren’t allowed on a moving truck. This includes plants, flammables, explosives, and perishable foods. It’s a good idea to make a special trip before moving day to move these items to your new home and ensure their safe transport.

As you can see, packing isn’t as simple as it may seem at first glance. Make sure to avoid these common packing mistakes the next time you relocate.