Moving house is a pretty big task, there’s a lot more to think about than simply transporting your belongings. Here is a checklist to follow for your move from one month prior.
Four weeks before your move:
- set a firm date for your move
- organise a home removals service, do your research and ask friends and family for recommendations
- arrange storage if you need it
- organise transit and/or storage insurance for your belongings
- organise your travel plans for moving day – if you’re moving some distance, you may need to book a hotel or other accommodation
- if necessary, book time off work
- collect or have your moving materials delivered
- start notifying businesses and suppliers of your change of address
Two weeks before your move:
- start packing non-essential items and clothing and write the items packed on the outside of the box
- arrange for disconnection and reconnection of electricity, gas, telephone etc services at your new address
- make a list of the items you want the removalist to move and any items you’ll be moving yourself
- arrange redirection of mail
One week before the move:
- finish packing and ensure all boxes are correctly labelled with contents and rooms
- if packing all your stuff has left you with piles of rubbish, take it to the tip
On moving day:
- pack a survival kit for the first hours in your new home – include tea or coffee, kettle, mugs and teaspoons, water bottles, snacks etc
- make sure the house is clean
- strip the beds and keep the linen in a separate box that travels with you so you can use them on the first night
- disconnect remaining appliances
- do one final check of your house as the removalists are loading your boxes
- stay home until the last item is packed and make an inspection of the van to check all your goods are loaded
- close and lock all the doors and windows
- make sure you have the keys to your new home with you
- carry valuables, personal items and important papers with you so they don’t get lost
At your new home:
- check all items during unloading and unpacking – look for any damaged or missing items
- check the electricity/gas/phone has been switched on – if not, contact the suppliers
- start with essentials such as making the beds and cleaning the kitchen for use
- start familiarising yourself with the local area, shops, buses, cafes etc
