Moving home is one of life's biggest milestones, but it can also feel overwhelming if you're not properly prepared. From organising your belongings to notifying utility providers, there are plenty of tasks to remember before moving day arrives.
To help make your move as smooth as possible, we've put together this comprehensive moving home checklist. Follow these steps and you'll be well on your way to a stress-free move.
8 Weeks Before Moving Day
Get Quotes For Removals
One of the first tasks on your moving home checklist should be sourcing a professional removal company (preferably Waters Removals & Storage!). We recommend getting 2 or 3 quotes, as quite often, everything comes down to dates and availability. When comparing removal companies, consider their reviews & reputation, insurance cover, the add-on services they can offer and whether the price fits in with your budget. Remember - cheapest isn't always best.
Declutter Your Home
Moving is the perfect opportunity to reduce the number of items you need to transport. Many people put off de-cluttering and end up taking things they don't want to their new home, only to bin it later! Operate a simple 'keep, donate & bin' system, working room by room. The less you have to move, the easier and more cost effective your move will be.
Gather Important Documents
Create a folder containing:
- Mortgage paperwork
- Solicitor details
- Insurance documents
- Identification including passport
- Removal company booking confirmation
Having everything in one place will save valuable time later.
6 Weeks Before Moving Day
Notify Schools and Healthcare Providers
If you're moving to a new area, begin informing schools and nurseries, doctors, dentists and opticians in advance. This allows plenty of time for records to be updated & transferred.
Arrange Home Insurance
Ensure your new property is covered from the day contracts are exchanged or completed, depending on your circumstances. This is an important one, as it's often a mortgage stipulation.
Measure Large Furniture
Check that large items such as sofas, wardrobes and dining tables will fit through doorways and into rooms at your new home. If you have time, create a layout plan and have your removal team work to it.
4 Weeks Before Moving Day
Start Packing Non-Essential Items
Begin packing items you don't use regularly, including seasonal clothing, books, decorations and ornaments, spare bedding and hobby equipment. Clearly label every box with its contents and destination room. Packing is a far less daunitng task when broken down.
Update Your Address
Start notifying organisations of your change of address, including banks, credit card providers, insurance companies, HMRC, employers and pension providers.
Arrange Mail Redirection
Royal Mail's redirection service can help ensure important post reaches you after you move.
2 Weeks Before Moving Day
Confirm Moving Arrangements
Contact your chosen removal company to confirm they can accommodate your move on the agreed date. Now is a good time to go through any last minute details of your move and ask any queries you have about move day.
Notify Utility Providers
Inform your suppliers of your moving date, not forgetting gas, electricity, water, broadband, telephone and TV services.
Prepare an Inventory
Creating a simple inventory can help you keep track of your belongings throughout the move. If this inventory coincides with your box labelling, unpacking will be a doddle!
1 Week Before Moving Day
Pack an Essentials Box
Prepare a box containing items you'll need immediately upon arrival, such as kettle, tea and coffee (priority item!), phone chargers, basic cleaning products, toiletries and medication, important documents and toys your children cannot live without. Keep this box easily accessible.
Defrost Your Freezer
If you're taking a freezer to your new home, defrost and clean it several days before moving day.
Finish Most of the Packing
Aim to have the majority of your packing completed before the final few days.
Moving Day 🥳
Take Final Meter Readings
Record photographic readings for gas, water and electricity.
Keep Valuables With You
Items such as passports, jewellery, cash and important paperwork should travel with you rather than in the removal vehicle.
Do a Final Walkthrough
Before leaving your old property:
- Check cupboards
- Inspect loft spaces
- Look in sheds and garages
- Ensure windows and doors are secured
Greet Your Removal Team
Your professional removal team will load your belongings safely and efficiently, helping to remove much of the stress associated with moving house.
After You Move In 🏠
Check Utilities Are Working
Make sure your electricity, water, heating and broadband are functioning correctly.
Update Remaining Addresses
If you continue receiving mail at your previous property, update your details with any organisations you may have missed.
Planning ahead is the key to a successful move. With the right preparation and an experienced removal company by your side, moving home can be a straightforward and enjoyable experience.
