Eight to six weeks before moving
Confirm the likely moving date and start comparing removal options. Create a working inventory rather than relying only on the number of bedrooms, because two similar properties can contain very different volumes.
Check parking and access at both addresses. In London this may involve controlled parking, loading restrictions, concierge rules or a lift reservation. Contact the local authority or building manager early where permission is required.
- Create a full furniture and box estimate
- Measure large items and doorways
- Identify anything needing dismantling
- Start using or donating unwanted items
Four to two weeks before moving
Book the removal team once the date and access arrangements are clear. If professional packing is required, agree whether it will cover the whole property or selected rooms.
Notify utilities, insurers, banks, schools and other organisations. Arrange mail redirection and keep important documents together rather than packing them into the general load.
- Order boxes and materials
- Label by destination room
- Arrange care for children or pets
- Confirm key collection and completion timing
The final week
Pack a personal essentials bag with medication, chargers, toiletries, clothing, documents, keys and refreshments. Keep these items with you.
Defrost and clean appliances where required. Photograph meter readings and valuable items. Confirm parking, contact numbers and the arrival time with the removal company.
- Separate valuables and passports
- Prepare a box of cleaning items
- Charge phones and power banks
- Remove fuel from prohibited equipment
Moving day and arrival
Walk through the property with the team and point out fragile items, dismantling requirements and anything that is not being moved. At the destination, direct furniture and boxes to the correct rooms.
Before the team leaves, check the vehicle, cupboards, loft, garage and outdoor areas. Record meter readings at the new home and test essential utilities.
- Keep paths clear
- Check every room before departure
- Confirm furniture placement
- Report any immediate concern promptly
Documents, utilities and address changes
Keep a separate moving file containing the quotation, booking confirmation, insurance information, tenancy or completion documents and contact details for both addresses. Digital copies are useful, but keep essential originals with you rather than in the removal vehicle.
Make a list of every organisation that needs the new address. Include council tax, electoral registration, driving licence, vehicle records, banks, insurers, employers, schools, subscriptions and healthcare providers. Record final meter readings and photograph them before leaving.
- Arrange Royal Mail redirection
- Update home and vehicle insurance
- Return old keys as agreed
- Keep completion documents accessible
A practical first-night plan
The first evening is easier when one clearly labelled essentials box travels last and is unloaded first. Include bedding, towels, basic kitchen items, cleaning supplies, toilet paper, tools and children’s or pet essentials.
Do not try to unpack every room immediately. Set up beds, confirm heating and hot water, secure doors and windows, and establish one usable bathroom and kitchen area. The remaining boxes can then be opened room by room.
- Prepare beds before decorative items
- Check smoke and carbon-monoxide alarms
- Locate the stopcock and fuse board
- Keep a basic toolkit available
When to confirm the removal booking
Once the moving date, main inventory and access are reasonably clear, request a written quotation and confirm what is included. Early booking gives more choice of dates and leaves time to arrange parking, packing and storage. Update the company promptly if the inventory or access changes.
- Send the final inventory
- Confirm both postcodes
- Agree packing and furniture work
- Keep the booking contact available
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