Ten Most Forgotten Items When Moving

Even the most organized movers forget essential items during a move. After years of experience coordinating relocations across New York and New Jersey, our team at Velocity Moving has compiled the most commonly forgotten items. Use this guide to ensure nothing important gets left behind.

Items in Storage Areas

Attics, basements, garages, and storage units are the number one places people forget to check. These out-of-sight spaces often contain seasonal items, holiday decorations, tools, and boxes that haven’t been touched in years.

• Check all closets and storage rooms thoroughly
• Don’t forget crawl spaces and under-stair storage
• Review your storage unit at least twice before moving day

Wall-Mounted Items

Pictures, mirrors, shelves, televisions, and wall decorations blend into the background until they’re the only things left hanging. Create a specific checklist of all wall-mounted items room by room.

Items Behind Doors

Robes, towels, coats, and organizers hanging on the backs of doors are frequently missed during the packing process. Walk through each room and physically check behind every door.

Outdoor Items

Garden hoses, planters, outdoor furniture, grills, and lawn equipment are often forgotten in yards or on patios.

• Patio furniture and cushions
• Garden tools and equipment
• Children’s outdoor toys
• Mailbox decorations
• Doormat and welcome signs

Cleaning Supplies

The very items you need for your final clean often get left behind under sinks or in utility closets. Keep a separate last-day cleaning kit that travels with you in your vehicle.

Items in the Freezer

Frozen foods, ice packs, and specialty frozen items are commonly overlooked. Empty your freezer a few days before moving and use a cooler on moving day for any remaining items.

Curtains and Window Treatments

Curtain rods, blinds, and drapes are frequently overlooked. Check your lease or sale agreement to determine which window treatments should stay or go with you.

Keys and Important Documents

Extra keys, safe combinations, warranties, and instruction manuals often get misplaced during moving day.

• Car keys and spare sets
• House keys for both old and new residence
• Safe deposit box keys
• Important documents and files
• Appliance manuals

Chargers and Cables

Phone chargers, laptop cords, and electronic cables tend to be left plugged in until the last minute and then forgotten. Designate a specific bag for all chargers and cables.

Medications and Toiletries

Daily medications, prescription bottles, and bathroom essentials are often used right up until moving day and accidentally left in medicine cabinets. Pack these items last and keep them with you during the move.

How to Avoid Forgetting Items

• Create a detailed room-by-room checklist before you start packing
• Conduct a final walkthrough and check every room, closet, and cabinet
• Take photos of each room before packing begins
• Pack an essentials box and keep it separate and clearly labeled
• Have someone else do a second walkthrough with fresh eyes

Professional Moving Services

At Velocity Moving and Storage, our professional movers help ensure nothing gets left behind. We provide comprehensive moving services throughout NYC and New Jersey, including detailed inventory management and systematic packing.

Contact us today for a free quote, or check out our complete moving checklist and packing tips for more helpful advice.