- Stress reduction
- Clear timelines
- Stress reduction
- Nothing missed
Four Weeks Before Moving
Start early to reduce stress and spread the workload.
- Sort through lofts, garages and storage areas and dispose of anything you no longer need. Consider donating unwanted items to local charity shops rather than moving them unnecessarily.
- Begin organising important documents such as legal paperwork, medical records and insurance details, keeping them together in a safe and accessible place. If you have children, arrange for school records to be transferred to their new school.
- Order your packing materials in advance so you are fully prepared. Boxes, tape and protective wrapping can be delivered to your door through our packing materials service. If you anticipate needing last-minute supplies, contact us to discuss options.
Three Weeks Before Moving
- Start notifying services and planning logistics.
- Contact your broadband provider to arrange a transfer or cancellation to avoid penalties. Let close friends and family know about your move and share your new address if appropriate.
- If you are moving out of the area, arrange to transfer or register with new doctors, dentists and opticians. This is also a good time to check any repeat prescriptions.
- Begin planning how moving day will work, including access, parking and any special requirements.
Two Weeks Before Moving
- Begin packing and organising services.
- Start packing non-essential items and clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. This will make unpacking much easier.
- Notify banks, credit card providers, insurers and other financial institutions of your change of address. Arrange mail redirection with Royal Mail and inform the DVLA.
- Make arrangements for pets and children on moving day. If possible, organise childcare or a quiet space for them. Arrange parking for the removal vehicle at both properties and consider organising a locksmith to change locks at your new home.
One Week Before Moving
- Final preparations before the move.
- Notify both your current and new local councils of your change of address. Inform TV Licensing, mobile phone providers and utility companies, and arrange final meter readings.
- Run down your freezer and use up existing food supplies. Avoid watering plants during the final week before the move.
- Prepare an essentials box for your new home containing items such as toilet rolls, light bulbs, tools, candles, important phone numbers and phone chargers. Disconnect and drain washing machines and dishwashers if required.
The Day Before Moving
- Keep essentials close and stay organised.
- Pack overnight bags with clothes and toiletries. Keep important items such as cash, cards and documents in a safe but easily accessible place.
- Set aside items you will need immediately, including kettle, tea and coffee, cleaning items and toilet paper.
Moving Day
- Work with your removal team to ensure everything runs smoothly.
- Show the removal team around the property, including garages and sheds, and explain your labelling system. If you wish, you may help by carrying small or light items.
- Before leaving, walk through the property with the team leader to confirm everything has been collected. Take final meter readings and ensure keys are left with the agreed person.
- Label bedding clearly for first-night use at your new home and make sure contact details are exchanged with the team leader.
First Day in Your New Home
- Settle in and wrap up loose ends.
- Provide final meter readings to your previous utility providers and update your address for online shopping and deliveries.
- Apply for new parking permits if needed and return any permits from your old address.
- Unpack essentials, order a takeaway, relax and start planning how you want to make your new house feel like home.
Frequently asked questions
When should I start preparing for my move?
Ideally four to six weeks before moving day.
Do you provide a printable checklist?
Yes, our moving checklist can be used online or printed.
Should I pack everything before moving day?
Non-essential items should be packed early, essentials can be left until last.
Do I need to label boxes?
Yes, clearly labelled boxes make unloading and unpacking much easier.
Can Simply Moving help with packing?
Yes, we offer full and part packing services.
When should I arrange parking for the removal van?
At least two weeks before the move.
Should I empty appliances before moving?
Yes, fridges, freezers and washing machines should be emptied and drained.
Do I need to notify utility companies myself?
Yes, we recommend doing this before and after your move.
What should I pack separately for moving day?
An essentials box with tools, toiletries, chargers and paperwork.
Can you advise me if I’m unsure about anything?
Yes, our team is always happy to help.