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Planning a move to a new house this year? It’s an exciting chapter and should be done right to avoid unnecessary stress that could overshadow this fresh new start. This means — you guessed it — making a checklist!
To help make your move as smooth as possible, we've put together the ultimate moving house checklist.. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to do before, during, and after your move to make sure that nothing falls through the cracks.
Your Moving Timeline Overview
Download our summary of the Moving Checklist for you to keep on hand here!
2 Months Before Your Move
Create a Moving House Checklist
Creating a comprehensive moving house checklist is the first step to staying organised during your move. Start by making a list of every task that needs to be done, no matter how small. You can use the list above as a starting point and add on any steps specific to your move.
Assign due dates to each item on the checklist when moving house based on their priority level and how far in advance they need to be completed before the move.
Hire a Reputable Moving Company
Unless you plan to do a complete DIY move, you'll need to research and book a reliable moving company well in advance. Get quotes from at least three companies and read their online reviews.
If you’re hiring movers, be sure they are licensed and have experience with moves like yours. If you are renting a van yourself, compare prices and book one that can accommodate all your belongings.
If you want to find a reputable company, use one that is a member of the British Association of Removers (BAR). They are professional, reputable, and follow strict standards of practice.
Don’t forget you will need insurance to protect your belongings. Most moving companies offer removal insurance, so you can ask them when scouting for the right removal company.
Start Decluttering
Several weeks before your move date, go through every room and declutter. Decide what items you want to keep, donate, sell, or discard. The less you have to move, the easier and cheaper your relocation will be. Host a garage sale, list items online, and donate gently used items to lighten your load.
Purchase Packing Supplies
You'll need plenty of sturdy boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, markers, and other supplies to pack up your home properly. Purchase these well in advance and get more than you think you'll need.
Consider getting specialised boxes for TVs, mirrors, dishes, etc. Label every box by room and contents.
Looking for packing supplies for your move within the UK? We have over 43 stores where you can buy packaging materials.
Moving House Address Change Checklist
- Compile a list of companies, subscriptions, and services that need to be notified of your address change. This includes utilities, cable/internet, magazine subscriptions, catalogues, and any other mail you receive at home.
- You should also consider forwarding your mail. Set up a mail redirection service with the Royal Mail at least 5–10 days before you move. Any mail sent to your old address gets forwarded to your new home.
- Don’t forget to update your driving licence and vehicle registration with the DVLA. You will also need to re-register to vote once you've moved to your new UK address. Do this by going to gov.uk/register-to-vote.
- You will need to cancel council tax when moving. You are responsible for telling either your local council (if you’re moving within the same area) or the council for the new area that you’re moving to.
One Week Before
Pack Non-Essentials and Label Boxes
One week before your move, start packing up non-essential items you won't need access to right away. These include things like books, décor, artwork, kitchenware you won't use that week, and out-of-season clothes.
As you pack, use a thick permanent marker or stickers to clearly label each box with its contents and the room it should go in at your new home.
Pack heavier items like books in small boxes and lighter things like pillows and linens in bigger boxes. Pack plates vertically, and wrap valuables securely with plenty of packing paper or bubble wrap.
Confirm Moving Details
If you have hired professional movers, call the company to reconfirm your reservation, move dates/times, pricing, and any special instructions a few days before. If you reserved a rental truck or moving container, verify the pick-up/drop-off times and locations.
Make plans for how you'll get keys to your new home as well. Arrange a time to pick them up from the estate agent (or owners) or have them waiting in a lockbox so you can get in right away.
Prepare an "Essentials" Box
Put together a dedicated box or two of essentials you'll need access to right away on move-in day. This could include:
- Toilet paper
- Paper towels
- Rubbish bags
- Snacks & drinks
- Chargers
- Pet supplies
- Sheets & towels
- Toiletries
- Medications
- A change of clothes
- Basic kitchen items
Mark these boxes and load them into your car so they'll be easily accessible.
Withdraw Cash
Having some cash on hand is wise for move-day expenses. You may need it to tip your movers, order lunch, pay for last-minute supplies, or cover other unexpected costs that come up.
The Day Before Your Move
Here's a checklist of things to do the day before your move:
- Confirm Moving Company Arrival Time: Double-check the scheduled arrival time and window for the moving company or van rental.
- Final Clean: Give your current home one final deep clean. Vacuum all floors, wipe down counters, and thoroughly clean bathrooms and the kitchen.
- Defrost Fridge/Freezer: If moving your current fridge, defrost it fully so it's ready for movers.
- Pack Suitcases: Set aside anything your family will need for the next few days in suitcases.
- Charge Electronics: Fully charge your phones, laptops, tablets, and other electronics.
- Make Keys Accessible: Make sure you have keys for your new home ready to go. If you won’t be at home when the move happens, make sure that the movers have a set of keys to lock up.
- Have Directions on Hand: Print out directions to your new home ahead of time. Share info with movers so they can get there easily.
By completing these tasks the day prior, you'll be organised and prepared for an easy, low-stress moving day.
Moving Day Checklist
Do a Final Walkthrough of Your Old Home
Open all cupboards, closets, and rooms to double-check that they are empty. Look under beds, behind furniture, and inside appliances for any forgotten items.
Take Meter Readings and Photos
Record the meter readings for gas, electricity, and water at your old home. Take photos or videos of all rooms, closets, and cupboards to document their condition. This protects you from any excessive cleaning charges or damage claims.
Supervise Movers and Give a Tour
Be present when the movers arrive to oversee the loading process. Give them a tour of your new home when you arrive. Show them where to place boxes in each room to make unpacking easier.
Prioritise Key Rooms
Have the movers load and unload the kitchen and bathroom boxes last. These are the highest-priority rooms you'll want to be set up first. Consider keeping cleaning supplies easily accessible for these rooms.
Do a Final Sweep
Do one last check of every room, closet, cabinet, and storage area. Look behind appliances and inside the attic/garage. Check that you haven't left anything behind.
The Day After
Once you have ticked off all these items on your checklist, take some time out to explore your new neighbourhood, including nearby parks, shops, and public transportation options and perhaps settle for a pint at the local.
Moving can be stressful, but staying organised with a thorough checklist for moving house can help everything go smoothly. We hope this guide takes the hassle out of your next house move!
Need help with van hire, a place to store your things between moves, or maybe a convenient place to buy packing supplies? Storage King has everything you need to make sure that your checklist is sorted. Pay us a visit at one of our 43 stores today or get a quote online.
