We know how stressful the moving process can be, but homeowners are leaving behind a small fortune in forgotten possessions when moving home, new research reveals.

It turns out there's more than £493million worth of forgotten items nationwide.

The study of 2,000 homeowners revealed that 26 per cent of movers have forgotten a beloved item when packing up their home, costing an average of £138.13. Meanwhile, 12 per cent have had something of significant sentimental value vanish or break during the moving process.

Packing habits play a key role here as the study also revealed that one in four homeowners use a 'caretaker' approach when packing up their home, filling boxes and planning meticulously to make sure the move goes smoothly.

Couple moving homepinterest
Tempura//Getty Images

In contrast, 12 per cent procrastinate and put off the process for as long as possible, even up until the week of the move.

A spokesperson from eBay, who commissioned the research in light of their refreshed Home Move hub, said: 'Moving home is a hassle, and squeezing your life into a stack of cardboard boxes can feel like a monumental task at times.'

Ease the stress of moving with these useful hacks here.

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Olivia Heath
Executive Digital Editor, House Beautiful UK

Olivia Heath is the Executive Digital Editor at House Beautiful UK, covering tomorrow's biggest interior design trends and revealing the best tips, tricks and hacks to help you decorate your home like a pro. Week by week Olivia shares the most stylish high street buys to help you get the look for less and showcases the best makeovers (who doesn't love a before & after?), as well as the hottest and most unique properties on the market.