🧠 Mythbusters: Moving Edition

Ryan Ferrier
Jun 23
3 min read

Debunking the Most Common Moving Myths

(So You Don’t Learn the Hard Way)

There’s a lot of moving advice out there — some helpful, some…not so much.

At Packhorse Moving, we’ve seen it all: the DIY disasters, the box collapses, the friendships strained by a poorly planned pizza-and-pickup-truck move.

It’s time to separate fact from fiction.

Let’s bust some common moving myths wide open.

❌ Myth #1: “You Don’t Need Professional Movers If You Have Friends”

Reality: Your friends are not a moving crew — they're a group of very nice people who will never look at you the same after carrying your sleeper sofa down three flights of stairs.

Why it's a myth: Sure, friends might help you save money up front, but they’re not trained to handle heavy or fragile items safely. You risk injuries, damaged belongings, and strained relationships.

Packhorse Pro Tip: Let your friends bring snacks, play DJ, or help you unpack. Leave the heavy lifting to the pros (that’s us).

❌ Myth #2: “All Boxes Are Created Equal”

Reality: That grocery store produce box might work for holding apples, but not for your kitchenware.

Why it's a myth: Cheap or used boxes may not hold up during stacking or transport — and one soggy-bottomed disaster can turn into a broken blender or shattered glassware.

Packhorse Pro Tip: Invest in sturdy, same-size moving boxes. They stack easier, protect better, and save your sanity. Bonus points for using specialty boxes for dishes, wardrobes, and TVs.

❌ Myth #3: “You Don’t Need to Label Everything”

Reality: If you’ve ever stood in your new home holding a mystery box labeled “Misc,” you already know.

Why it's a myth: Unlabeled boxes slow down the move-in process and make it hard to prioritize unpacking. Movers won’t know what’s fragile or where to place things.

Packhorse Pro Tip: Label each box with the room, contents, and whether it’s fragile. Color-coded tape or stickers = extra credit (and extra organization).

❌ Myth #4: “You Can Pack Everything the Night Before”

Reality: Unless you're moving out of a studio with two plates and no furniture, that’s a recipe for panic.

Why it's a myth: Last-minute packing leads to broken items, disorganized boxes, and unnecessary stress.

Packhorse Pro Tip: Start packing at least 2–3 weeks before your move. Begin with non-essentials, and save a “last night essentials” box for the final 24 hours.

❌ Myth #5: “Weekends Are the Best Time to Move”

Reality: Everyone else thinks that too — so guess what happens?

Why it's a myth: Weekend moves book up fast and often come with higher rates or limited availability.

Packhorse Pro Tip: If your schedule allows, move on a weekday. You’ll have more flexibility, and sometimes better pricing too.

❌ Myth #6: “Movers Will Move Everything”

Reality: Not exactly. We love a challenge, but we also follow safety guidelines and local laws.

Why it's a myth: Professional movers can’t move hazardous materials, certain valuables, or pest-infested items — and no, we won’t transport your loose goldfish bowl.

Packhorse Pro Tip: Ask for a list of “non-allowables” before moving day. Pack those items separately and transport them yourself.

❌ Myth #7: “It’s Cheaper to Move Yourself”

Reality: Add up the truck rental, equipment, fuel, time off work, and potential damage —then see how “cheap” it really is.

Why it's a myth: DIY moves often come with hidden costs. One dropped TV or dinged wall can eat your budget fast.

Packhorse Pro Tip: Get a few professional quotes (ours are free!) and compare. You might be surprised how affordable — and stress-free — professional help can be.