Moving to a new home can be both exciting and overwhelming. With so many details to consider, staying organized is key to ensuring a smooth transition. That’s where a well-planned, comprehensive moving house checklist comes in handy. Whether you’re moving across town or relocating to a new city, having a step-by-step guide helps you stay on top of every task, from packing to settling into your new house. In this article, we’ll walk you through a this checklist, so you can make your move as stress-free and efficient as possible.
8-6 weeks before moving day: moving house checklist
- Research moving companies and read reviews from previous customers
- Check if the removal company is licensed and insured
- Get a written estimate from the man and van company and compare prices
- Verify the moving company’s physical address and contact information
- Confirm details with your estate agent regarding the progress of the move and communicate your intent to vacate if renting
6-4 weeks before moving day
- 6 weeks before moving day:
- Finalize your moving company and confirm the relocation date.
- Start packing non-essential items, such as seasonal decorations, off-season clothing, and books.
- Arrange for storage, if necessary.
- Transfer your home insurance to your new address.
- 5 weeks before moving day:
- Notify your utility companies of your move and schedule final meter readings.
- Set up utilities at your address.
- Update your address with your bank, credit card company, and loan providers.
- Arrange for disconnection of your internet, TV, and phone services.
4 weeks before: removals company
- Organise your removals company
- Arrange your mail redirection by visiting your local post office to ensure all important mail is forwarded efficiently and securely to your address
- Start cleaning outside areas, such as the shed and garden
- Arrange for utility connections at your new home
3 week before
- Start to run down the contents of your freezer
- Packing is an option for everything that won’t be needed for the following two weeks, such as seasonal goods and extra duvets or towels.
- Make arrangements for family members, such as having children stay with relatives or arranging pet care, to ensure a smoother moving day
- Register for the GP and children’s school records to their new school
2 weeks before
- Finish packing up the items that you haven’t stored yet, ensuring all your boxes are packed and labeled properly
- Packing a bag or box full of necessities, including a change of clothing, blankets, food, and toiletries, can ensure that you don’t have to spend your first night at your new home digging through boxes.
- Inform your family and friends of your address
1 week before
- Take down any photos, disassemble any shelves, and remove any fitted objects you are bringing.
- Repair any scrapes, scratches, nail holes, or marks in the house you’re leaving
- Remember to redirect your TV licence since it won’t automatically change to your new property
3 days before: new address
- Do your laundry so that you don’t have to cart dirty clothes to your new home
- Empty and defrost your freezer
- Make sure plants are drained of excess water
- Make sure you cancelled and/or redirected scheduled deliveries
1 day before
- Confirm the moving details with your moving company, including the moving date, time, and location.
- Review your moving checklist to ensure everything is packed and ready to go.
- Pack a “first night” box with essentials, such as toiletries, towels, and a change of clothes.
- Defrost and clean your refrigerator and freezer.
- Take final meter readings and notify your utility companies.
- Double-check that all doors and windows are locked, and the house is secure.
- Take a final walk-through of your old house to ensure everything is packed and nothing is left behind.
1 days before
- Notify your utility providers—such as gas, electric, and water—of your move date and new address.
- Empty and defrost your fridge
- Disconnect any equipment you’re bringing with you, such as the dishwasher, washing machine, and oven.
- Any food that is left over and has gone bad should be thrown away. Ensure that every one of your refrigerated goods is firmly and securely wrapped to prevent spills.
On moving day: meter readings
- Grab the materials from your Moving Day Survival Kit, along with the kettle and mugs. When you need a break, you may set up a coffee and tea station with snacks and water.
- Read utility meters in your new house – take images on your phone to preserve them safe
- Make sure you have personally taken cash, documents, jewellery, keys with you to your new home
Post-Move Tasks
- Unpack and organize your new home
- Put away essentials such as toiletries, towels, and a change of clothes
- Update your address with your employer, school, and healthcare providers
- Take care of any necessary repairs or maintenance at your new home
By following a detailed moving house checklist, you can avoid last-minute headaches and ensure everything goes according to plan. From organizing your belongings to making sure you’ve updated your address, every step is designed to make your move smoother and more manageable. With proper preparation, moving day can feel like just another step toward settling into your new home. Use this relocation process guide to stay organized, reduce stress, and make the most of your exciting new beginning.