Moving to a new home is an exciting journey, and we’re here to ensure it’s a smooth and enjoyable one. Let’s get started on your stress-free move!

You can also download our helpful moving checklist here!

1. Once Your Mortgage Offer is Issued And in Place, Notify Your Landlord or Estate Agent:

• If you’re renting, the first step is to notify your landlord or estate agent.
• Verify the notice period, which can vary from one to two months.
• Make sure your preferred moving date aligns with your notice period.

2. Streamline and Secure a Reliable Removals Company:

• Simplify your move by decluttering your belongings.
• When booking a removals company, provide an estimate of your items.
• Consider donating or storing non-essential items.
• Stock up on packing supplies (if these are not being provided for you by your removal company).

3. Consider Kids and Pets:

• If you have children, ensure you’ve addressed school placements or informed the old school about your new address.
• For your furry friends, book kennels or a cattery well in advance.
• Plan the care of both pets and children on moving day.
• There are lots of online tips to help pets and children settle into new homes and new rooms, so be sure to research these.

4. Update Your Details:

• Notify essential people, organisations, and companies about your address change.
• Categories to consider:
  • Work
  • Local authorities
  • Services
  • Recreational
  • Household
  • Transportation
  • Healthcare
  • Education
  • Financial
  • Utilities
• Always double-check specific requirements with each entity.

5. Redirect Your Mail:

• Ensure you don’t miss important letters, bills, or documents by setting up mail redirection.
• Safeguard your sensitive information with the Royal Mail’s mail redirection service.

6. Prepare Your Vehicle and Route:

• Prioritise a hassle-free move by servicing your vehicle and checking its tires for a smooth journey.
• Confirm your route and (if required), identify convenient stops for fuel and breaks.

7. Organised Packing and Preparation:

• Start packing in earnest about two weeks ahead for a well-organised move.
• Clearly label your boxes for easy unpacking.
• Don’t forget to empty kitchen cabinets and prepare appliances like the fridge/freezer.

8. Labelling Boxes for Easy Unpacking:

• Here’s a valuable tip: label boxes for each room with coloured pens or coloured paper.
• Upon arrival, add a piece of paper to each room identifying it as ‘sitting room,’ ‘John’s room,’ etc, written in the correct colour to match up to the colour on the boxes.
• This makes it easier for you, your removal company, or friends and family helping you to place boxes in the correct rooms.
• Trust us, this can be a game-changer! It helps you avoid a daunting pile of boxes in one room, making unpacking feel more manageable.

9. Inform Friends, Family, and Neighbours:

• Share your new address with loved ones and seek their support if needed.
• Notify your current neighbours to ensure easy access for the moving van.

10. Confirm With Your Solicitor/Estate Agent:

• Double-check with your solicitor or estate agent to confirm the move is proceeding as planned.
• Stay informed about any potential delays a week before moving.

11. Keep Valuables Secure:

• Safeguard important documents, paperwork, and valuables in a secure place.
• Include essential documents needed for moving in your vehicle on moving day.

12. The Day Before You Move:

• Ensure your mobile phone is fully charged.
• Have essential items clearly labeled and ready.
• Reconfirm details with your removal firm and verify your route.

13: Moving Day

• Strip sheets but put the duvets and pillows still in their duvet covers and pillow cases into a large bag to keep in the car with you, (with fresh bedding if you prefer). This way you can easily set up beds for yourselves or little ones at the end of a busy day. Don’t forget that all important comfort toy!
• Make sure to keep a box of essentials with you in the car. Include tea, coffee, sugar and don’t forget the cups and spoons. Your removal team will appreciate it! You could also include any medications needed and important documents.

14. Create a List for New Occupants:

• Be thoughtful by providing a list of essential item locations in your home for the new occupants.
• This gesture goes a long way in making their transition smoother.

15. Record Meter Readings:

• On moving day, take meter readings for water, gas, and electricity.
• This ensures accurate billing and avoids disputes.

16. Final Walkthrough:

• Conduct a final walkthrough of your home.
• Double-check that beds are stripped, bathrooms are clear, and garages or greenhouses are empty.
• If you’re handling the move yourself, plan for loading, or ensure movers are well-informed.

17. Bid Farewell to Your Old House:

• Give your old home a thorough cleaning and remove any remaining clutter.
• Leave all sets of keys for the new owners as previously arranged.
• Don’t forget keys to any outbuildings or interior doors if required.

Moving can be a breeze with the right planning and guidance. Enjoy every moment of your new adventure, and remember, we’re here to assist you every step of the way. For more helpful information, explore our downloadable moving checklist.