Moving Home Checklist

As soon as you have a likely moving date – even if it's not fully confirmed – you can start laying the groundwork. Early planning gives you more choice of removal firms and avoids last minute stress.

• Confirm your likely moving window with your conveyancer or landlord.
• Decide whether you'll use a removal company or move yourself.
• Use the Moving Volume Calculator to estimate how much you're moving.
• Get at least three quotes from reputable, insured removal companies.
• Check access and parking restrictions at both properties (height limits, permits, loading bays).
• Start decluttering – sell, donate or recycle items you don't want to take.
• Gather important paperwork together (IDs, house documents, warranties).

With the date getting closer, it's time to lock in key bookings and tackle the admin that can't wait until the last minute.

Confirm your key bookings

• Book your chosen removal company and confirm what's included.
• Arrange time off work for moving day (and possibly the day after).
• Book pet care or childcare if needed on moving day.
• Schedule cleaners at your old property if you're using a service.

Notify key organisations

• Tell your landlord (if renting) and check notice requirements.
• Contact utility providers about your move (gas, electricity, water).
• Arrange broadband/TV installation at your new home.
• Update or schedule your home insurance to cover the new property.
• Check council tax arrangements in your new area.

With just a week or two to go, shift your focus to detailed packing and making sure nothing important is missed.

Admin and address changes

• Set up post redirection with Royal Mail.
• Update your address with your bank, credit card providers and HMRC.
• Change address for driving licence (DVLA) and car insurance.
• Update details with your employer, GP, dentist and any subscriptions.

Packing and home preparation

• Disassemble large furniture where possible (bed frames, wardrobes).
• Defrost and clean your freezer (usually 24–48 hours before moving).
• Use up food in your fridge and freezer to avoid waste.
• Clearly label any items that are staying with the property.
• Prepare a “do not pack” area for essentials you'll take yourself.

The final few days are about finishing packing, protecting your property, and making the move as smooth as possible.

• Pack a clearly labelled “first night” box for each bedroom.
• Prepare a separate box for important documents and valuables.
• Take photos of meter readings on move-out and move-in day.
• Protect floors and banisters if you can (runners, corner guards).
• Empty lofts, sheds and storage areas – movers will assume everything is ready.
• Confirm key collection times with your estate agent or landlord.

Moving day can feel hectic. A simple structure helps you stay calm and keep things moving in the right order.

Before the movers arrive

• Have a clear plan for where the van can park.
• Keep walkways clear and propped doors open where safe.
• Show the crew around and flag fragile or high-value items.

Essentials box checklist

• Kettle, mugs, tea/coffee, snacks and water.
• Phone chargers and a basic toolbox (screwdrivers, Allen keys).
• Toiletries, towels and a change of clothes.
• Bedding for the first night.
• Rubbish bags, cleaning wipes and basic cleaning supplies.

Before you hand over the keys

• Walk through each room to check nothing has been left behind.
• Take final meter readings and photos.
• Leave any manuals or instructions you agreed to pass on.

Once the boxes are in, the focus shifts to making the property safe, comfortable and fully set up.

• Check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working.
• Locate the stopcock, fuse box and boiler controls.
• Unpack room by room, starting with bedrooms and the kitchen.
• Register with a new GP and dentist if you've moved area.
• Walk the local area to find shops, transport and key amenities.
• Update friends, family and any remaining organisations with your new address.