ULTIMATE HOUSE MOVING CHECKLIST

Use this checklist to stay organised before, during and after your move.

6-8 WEEKS BEFORE MOVING

  • Book your removal company
  • Confirm your moving date
  • Start decluttering each room
  • Donate, recycle or sell unwanted items
  • Measure large furniture to ensure it fits in your new home
  • Order boxes, packing tape and protective wrapping
  • Notify your landlord (if applicable)
  • Arrange time off work if needed
  • Create a folder for important moving documents.

2-4 WEEKS BEFORE MOVING

  • Begin packing items you use less often
  • Clearly label every box with its room and contents
  • Wrap fragile items securely
  • Separate valuable items and important documents
  • Notify your bank of your new address
  • Update your driving licence and vehicle logbook (if required)
  • Redirect your post with Royal Mail
  • Inform your employer of your new address
  • Contact your home and contents insurance provider
  • Arrange broadband, TV, and telephone services for your new home
  • Inform your gas, electricity and water suppliers

1 WEEK BEFORE MOVING

  • Finish packing all non-essential items
  • Prepare an essentials box
  • Defrost and clean your freezer
  • Empty outdoor storage, sheds and garages
  • Dismantle furniture where possible
  • Check parking arrangements for the removal vehicle
  • Confirm moving day details with your removal company
  • Keep house keys in a safe place

PACK AN ESSENTIALS BOX

Keep this with you rather than loading it into the removal vehicle.

  • House keys
  • Wallet and Identification
  • Mobile phone charger
  • Medication
  • Kettle, mugs, tea and coffee
  • Bottled water and snacks
  • Toilet roll
  • Basic cleaning supplies
  • Children’s essentials
  • Pet food and bowls
  • Fresh clothes
  • Bedding for your first night
  • Important documents

MOVING DAY

Before leaving your old property:

  • Check every room
  • Check cupboards and wardrobes
  • Empty the loft
  • Check the garage and shed
  • Take final gas, electricty and water meter readings
  • Turn off lights
  • Lock all windows
  • Close and lock all doors
  • Set or activate an alarm system
  • Ensure all keys are collected
  • Leave instruction manuals or spare keys for the new owners if agreed

DURING THE MOVE

  • Keep valuables with you
  • Keep pets secure
  • Supervise children where possible
  • Tell the removal team about fragile or high value items
  • Keep drinks and snacks available
  • Keep your phone switched on
  • Have contact numbers easily accessible

WHEN YOU ARRIVE AT YOUR NEW HOME

  • Unlock all doors and windows
  • Check each room for any issues
  • Take meter readings
  • Direct boxes into the correct rooms
  • Assemble beds first
  • Connect the fridge and essential appliances
  • Check smoke alarms
  • test heating, hot water and electricity
  • Introduce yourself to the neighbours

HOME SECURITY CHECKLIST

One of the first things to think about after moving in is security.

  • Test all doors lock
  • Check all windows lock securely
  • Change exterior door locks if appropriate
  • Replace alarm codes
  • Update doorbell or CCTV settings
  • Check outdoor lighting
  • Store spare keys safely
  • Make sure gates and fences are secure

DON’T FORGET TO UPDATE YOUR ADDRESS

Remember to notify:

  • Bank and credit card providers
  • GP and dentist
  • DVLA
  • Vehicle insurance
  • Home insurance
  • Pension providers
  • Mobile phone provider
  • Broadband provider
  • HMRC (if applicable)
  • Employer
  • Children’s school
  • Any subscription services