Top tips for a stress-free move | Guides

Whether you’re counting down to moving day or planning well in advance, our moving house checklist will guide you through every step of the process, from choosing a removal company to settling into your new home.

1. Planning your move (6 weeks before)
2. Preparing to move (4-6 weeks before)
3. Moving Day
4. Settling in

1. Planning your move (6 weeks before)

The first step to a smooth move is choosing your moving method. Ideally, decide this six weeks before your moving date so that you are fully aware of the costs of moving house, though you may plan even earlier. Your three main options are:

Full-service removal company. This is the most convenient option, but also the most expensive. A removal company handles everything: packing, transporting your belongings, and unpacking at your new home.
Partial removal service. This option offers a balance between cost and effort. You handle the packing and unpacking yourself, while the removal company loads and transports your belongings.
DIY move. The cheapest option, but also the most time-consuming. You’ll need to find a large van, packing supplies, and potentially even friends to help on moving day.

2. Preparing to move (4-6 weeks before)

With your moving method chosen, it’s time to start preparing to move. Here’s what to focus on:

a. Getting organised (4-6 weeks before)

Confirm the moving date with your chosen removal company. If you’re opting for a DIY move, double-check the availability of your rented van.
Order boxes, bubble wrap, packing tape and other essentials well in advance. Consider buying packing supplies online or in bulk for better deals.
Begin sorting through your belongings and donate any unwanted items to charity or sell them to declutter. If you’re downsizing, prioritise decluttering items that won’t fit into your new home.
If necessary, submit your request for time off work well in advance to secure the days you need for your move.

b. Tying up loose ends (2-3 weeks before)

Notify your current gas, electricity, water and broadband providers of your move date and arrange final payments. Schedule disconnection at your old address and connection at your new home.
Set up mail forwarding and inform relevant parties of your new address.
Transfer your TV license, broadband service and council tax to your new address to avoid interruptions.
Start using up frozen food items to avoid wasting them during the move.
If you have children or pets, arrange for their care on moving day.

Top tip: don’t forget to photograph utility meter readings in both your old and new homes on moving day.

c. Informing relevant parties (1-2 weeks before)

If moving to a new area, register with a new local GP surgery.

Contact your local council and inform them of your move date. You may also need to request a council tax statement for your old property.

Notify your bank and insurance companies of your upcoming move and update your address on all policies.

d. Gearing up to move (1-2 days before)

If you are taking your fridge or freezer, defrost it thoroughly at least 24 hours before moving day.

If you’re taking appliances like dishwashers, disconnect them 1-2 days before the move.

Clearly label all boxes with the room name and contents.

Prepare a separate box containing essential items you’ll need on moving day itself.

Clearly label each key for your old property.

3. Moving Day

a. Preparing your old home:

Strip beds to make mattresses easier to move and protect them from dirt during the move.

Allow enough time to clean your old property.

b. Loading up:

Once the removal company arrives, start loading up.

When everything is loaded, check the property one last time to ensure nothing is left behind.

c. Settle into your new home:

Focus on assembling beds first to ensure a comfortable first night’s sleep in your new home.

Unpack essential items in the rooms you use the most, such as the kitchen and bathroom to establish basic functionality in your new space.

4. Settling in

You’ll need to think about paying stamp duty if your property is valued over £250,000. You’ll likely have already discussed stamp duty with your lawyer or mortgage advisor.

Contact your new utility suppliers and submit accurate meter readings from your move-in date.

Update your address on various accounts. Here are some key ones to prioritise:

Electoral register

Bank and insurance companies

Driver’s license and vehicle registration

Subscription services

Medical records

Pet’s microchip (if applicable)

For more moving advice and top tips, read Zoopla’s blog here.