Moving Planner
The earlier you get yourself organised, the less stressful your move will ultimately be. As the saying goes, why put off until tomorrow, that which can be done today.
Planning your move well in advance can save you hours of stress in the long run. Once you know your completion date, start planning!
The following will help you focus on what needs to be done & when.
Six Weeks To Go (or one month before you exchange)
Purchase your packing materials i.e. boxes/tape/bubblewrap etc.
Book time off work for packing and moving
Begin your clear out & either hire a skip or do a car boot sale. We all find things stored away that we did not realise we had but remember this when you are clearing out, if you have not missed it then you do not need it. Declutter is the word of the day.
Obtain written quotes from several removal firms If you are planning on using one.
If you're planning on moving yourself, ask friends if they will lend a hand and find a suitable van to use.
Four Weeks To Go (or once you've exchanged)
Contact telephone company to organise reconnection/installation of a line
Inform utility companies
Book removal company or van
Inform appropriate people of your Change of Address
Tell Post Office to redirect mail on date of move
Organise for someone to look after any children and pets but remember, its their move as well. Children do like to feel involved so why not give them their own safe role on the day.
Register with new doctor/dentist
Check whether you can transfer your home contents insurance to new property or if you can get a refund on any unused existing policy
Start packing non essential items. Remember to mark those boxes with their contents and designated room.
Two Weeks To Go
Make plan of new home and decide which rooms will be used for what
Continue packing/sorting
One Week To Go
Arrange for any final bills to be paid
Have meters read and pay any outstanding amounts
Cancel any services, e.g. window cleaner, milkman, newspaper delivery
Keep all moving-related documents together with important papers like passports and driving licences
Go through kitchen cupboards and throw out anything that is past its sell by date. Make sure all the packets, bottles and jars are sealed tightly to avoid spillage in transit
The Day Before
Mark boxes and finalise packing
Pack a container for emergency supplies i.e. tea, coffee etc
Defrost fridge/freezer. To avoid mildew, make sure that they are completely dry before moving
Take down curtains and any fixtures you are intending to take with you
Finish cleaning the house
Make sure you have keys to your new home or have arranged to collect them
Check with neighbours that they will leave room outside both properties for your removal van. Resolve any potential parking problems, i.e. arranging permits, suspension of parking restrictions etc.
The Day of the Move
Disconnect any remaining appliances
Record all utility meter readings
Make one last final check
Ensure that when the removal crew arrives that you escort them around the house confirming what is to be moved
Give movers the directions to your new home and an emergency contact number
Make sure you are present when the removal crew arrives at your new home so that you can lead the way
