A Checklist for Moving House

Moving can be a stressful activity and many people find themselves unprepared for the amount of work that needs to be done, making it even more stressful and upsetting. Having a list of things to do beforehand can make the entire process much easier, and will ensure that on the moving day everything will happen smoothly and nothing will be left behind.

You can download this check list for your personal convenience here »

Three weeks before the move

• If you’re moving an entire house worth of goods, it’s wise to consider hiring a professional company to help with the move. Some companies can organise everything, including packing, while others will provide free packing materials and other minor services. Determine how much help you need, and if necessary hire a service firm to do your packing for you.
• Moving is also an ideal time to sort through your belongings, and discarding unwanted and unused items. These can be donated to charity, sold through a car boot sale or simply disposed of.
• Now is also the time to start informing your service providers of the move and give them a change of address. Service providers include things such as TV services, internet and phone lines, credit cards companies and utilities. Any company that sends you bills should be informed of the move and subsequent change of address.

Two weeks before the move

• Start packing any items that aren’t used often. Make sure that boxes are labelled clearly, as this helps with unpacking at the new address.
• Any items that are fitted, such as shelves or pictures, that are to be taken along should be disassembled and packed at this time.
• Start arranging accommodation or a caretaker for any pets or children that you may have for the day of the move. They will also find the move stressful, and having somebody to take care of them while you’re taking care of the moving process will greatly reduce their stress, as well as yours.
• Start using up perishable items and frozen foods, and start buying smaller supplies that will last you up to the move. This prevents you from having to haul food or disposable items along during the move.

One week before the move

• Cancel any regular deliveries that you have, such as of newspapers and milk.
• Defrost and clean your fridge and freezer, so that you don’t have to worry about doing this on the day of the move.
• Pack a small box filled with necessary items that you’ll immediately unpack when reaching the new house. Such items can include toiletries, a kettle, light bulbs and easy to make foods.
• Confirm your appointment with the moving company especially their arrival time. If anything has changed, notify them immediately.

On the day

• Set aside any items that you want on you, so that they don’t get taken on the van by accident.
• Make sure that everything is disconnected, take down the relevant meter readings and inform the utility company.
• Remove bedding from the beds and pack it away. Make doubly sure that you haven’t left anything behind.
• Lock the doors and check that the windows are closed when you leave.
• Give the keys to the property to the estate agent and collect the keys to your new house.