When should I start preparing to move house?

Start as soon as your moving date is known. Giving yourself several weeks allows time to declutter, arrange removals, organise packing, update addresses and prepare your new property.

When should I book a removal company?

It is generally sensible to arrange your removal company as early as possible once your moving date is confirmed. Busy periods can have limited availability, so early planning gives you more options.

What should I pack first when moving house?

Start with items you rarely use, such as seasonal clothing, decorations, books and belongings already in storage. Keep everyday essentials accessible until closer to moving day.

How should I label moving boxes?

Label each box with the destination room and a short description of the contents. You can also mark fragile boxes clearly and keep an inventory for larger moves.

What should I do if my new home is not ready?

Consider arranging storage so your belongings can be kept safely while you wait for access to the new property. Your removal company may be able to coordinate removal and storage arrangements.

Do I need to arrange packing help?

Not necessarily. You can pack yourself, arrange full or partial professional packing, or discuss packing materials with your removal company depending on your time and requirements.

What should I keep with me on moving day?

Keep important documents, keys, medication, chargers, valuables, essential toiletries, food and a change of clothes with you rather than placing them in the removals vehicle.

What should I check before leaving my old home?

Check cupboards, drawers, lofts, garages, sheds and outdoor areas. Take final meter readings, secure the property and make sure you have removed everything you need.

Moving House Checklist UK | Complete Moving Home Checklist

6–8
WKS

6–8 Weeks Before Moving

Confirm your expected moving date and start planning backwards.
Research and request quotes from suitable removal companies.
Arrange a pre-move survey if required for an accurate assessment.
Start decluttering rooms, cupboards, lofts, garages and storage areas.
Separate items to keep, donate, sell, recycle or dispose of.
Measure important furniture and check access at the new property.
Research your new area, including local services and transport.

Top tip: Start with items you rarely use rather than everyday essentials.

4
WKS

Around 4 Weeks Before Moving

Confirm your removal company and moving arrangements.
Order or collect suitable boxes, tape, wrapping and labels.
Begin packing non-essential and seasonal belongings.
Arrange storage if your new home is not ready or you need extra space.
Arrange childcare or pet care for moving day if necessary.
Check that parking and property access can accommodate the removals vehicle.
Review home insurance arrangements for your new property.

Top tip: Label each box with the room and a short description of its contents.

2
WKS

2 Weeks Before Moving

Notify utility and service providers about your change of address or moving date.
Arrange mail redirection and update important accounts.
Notify your bank, insurer, employer and other organisations that need your new address.
Transfer or arrange telephone, broadband and other home services.
Plan how valuable, important or personal items will be transported.
Continue packing while keeping daily essentials accessible.
Make a detailed moving day plan and keep important contact details together.

Top tip: Keep keys, documents and other critical items in one clearly identified place.

1
WK

1 Week Before Moving

Finish most packing and leave only the items you still need.
Defrost and clean the freezer if required.
Clean rooms, cupboards and areas that will be empty.
Check the loft, garage, shed, cupboards and other easy-to-miss areas.
Keep passports, contracts, identification and important documents secure.
Confirm the moving date, arrival arrangements and access details with your removal company.
Prepare a separate box or bag for your first night.

Top tip: Keep your essentials separate so they do not accidentally go onto the removals vehicle.

DAY
BEFORE

The Day Before Moving

Complete any remaining packing.
Empty bins and remove rubbish from the property.
Prepare jewellery, cash, important documents and personal valuables to travel with you.
Put aside keys, chargers, toiletries, medicines and a change of clothes.
Confirm childcare, pet care and travel arrangements.
Check that the washing machine, fridge and other appliances are ready for moving where applicable.
Do one final check of cupboards, drawers and outdoor areas.

Top tip: Get a good night's rest and keep your moving day bag somewhere you can reach easily.

MOVE
DAY

Moving Day Checklist

Be ready for the removals team when they arrive.
Explain any fragile, valuable or unusually large items that need special attention.
Keep personal essentials and important documents with you.
Take final meter readings and keep records for your utility providers.
Walk through the old property after loading to check that nothing has been left behind.
Make sure you have the keys and know how to access your new property.
At delivery, check that your belongings have been unloaded before completing any required paperwork.

Top tip: Take photos of meter readings and the condition of both properties for your records.