A little planning can make the process much smoother. Whether you’re moving across town or to a completely new area, these tips will help you stay organised from start to finish.

Before You Move…

Create a Moving Checklist

Start planning as early as possible. Write down everything that needs to be done and work through it step by step. This helps you avoid last-minute stress and keeps your move on track.

Your checklist might include:

• Booking a removals company
• Packing room by room
• Arranging storage if needed
• Redirecting your post
• Notifying utility providers
• Updating your address with banks, employers and subscriptions

Declutter Before Packing

Moving is the perfect opportunity to get rid of items you no longer need.

Consider:

• Donating unwanted clothes and furniture
• Selling valuable items online
• Recycling responsibly
• Disposing of broken or unused belongings

Packing less means you’ll save time, space and potentially money.

Book Your Removal Company Early

Good removal companies often get booked well in advance, especially during weekends and school holidays.

Compare quotes, check reviews and confirm exactly what’s included before making your booking.

Packing Tips…

Pack One Room at a Time

Packing room by room helps keep everything organised and makes unpacking much easier.

Clearly label every box with:

• The room it belongs in
• A brief description of the contents
• Whether it contains fragile items

Keep Essentials Separate

Pack an essentials box containing everything you’ll need on your first night.

Include items such as:

• Phone chargers
• Toiletries
• Medication
• Kettle and mugs
• Tea and coffee
• Basic kitchen supplies
• Fresh clothes
• Important documents

You’ll be glad you did.

Protect Fragile Items

Wrap delicate items carefully using bubble wrap, towels or packing paper.

Avoid overfilling boxes and keep heavier items at the bottom.

Don’t Forget Your Utilities

Arrange final meter readings before leaving your old property and provide opening readings at your new home.

Remember to notify:

• Gas supplier
• Electricity supplier
• Water company
• Broadband provider
• TV licence (if applicable)
• Council tax department

Update Your Address

Make a list of organisations that need your new address.

Common examples include:

• Banks
• Insurance providers
• Employer
• GP surgery
• DVLA
• HMRC
• Electoral Register
• Online shopping accounts
• Subscription services

Redirecting your mail for a few months can also prevent important letters from being lost.

On Moving Day

Try to stay organised by:

• Keeping valuables with you
• Having drinks and snacks available
• Charging your phone fully
• Taking final meter readings
• Checking every cupboard before leaving
• Locking all windows and doors

Once you’ve arrived, focus on assembling beds and unpacking essentials before tackling the rest of the house.

After You’ve Moved

There’s no need to unpack everything in one day.

Take your time and:

• Check smoke alarms are working
• Locate the stopcock and fuse box
• Introduce yourself to neighbours
• Update any remaining accounts
• Explore your local area

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I start packing?

Ideally, begin around 4–6 weeks before moving day by packing items you don’t use regularly. Leave everyday essentials until the final few days.

How can I make moving less stressful?

Planning ahead is the key. Break larger tasks into smaller ones, label everything clearly and avoid leaving packing until the last minute.

Should I hire professional movers?

For larger properties or long-distance moves, professional movers can save significant time and reduce the physical strain. Smaller moves may be manageable with help from friends and family.

What should I pack last?

Keep everyday essentials, important documents, medication, chargers and toiletries until the end so they’re easy to access.

Need Help With Your Move?

Whether you’re buying, selling or simply preparing for moving day, careful planning makes all the difference. If you have any questions about the moving process or need professional advice, our team is always happy to help.