While moving into a new home is an exciting time, the move itself is often regarded as one of the most stressful things you can do. However much of the stress can be relieved by ensuring that you plan and prepare beforehand. In fact planning and preparation are the key to any successful move. So, in this blog post we are going to take a look at the things you need to do to help ensure your move goes without a hitch. So, read on and get all the advice you need to ensure that moving day is something you can take in your stride.
Before You Move
There are a number of things you can do before you move that will help ensure moving day itself is as stress free as possible. Here are smoke of the things we think you should do before you move:
Packing Smart
When moving home it is important to be organised and a good way to start is with your packing. So, start packing early. Our advice would be at least 2-4 weeks before moving day. The earlier you start, the less stressful it will be. Focus on non-essentials first things you don’t use every day.
Source Good Quality Boxes and Materials
You can often get boxes from local supermarkets, or better yet, ask your removals company if they supply packing materials. Most removals companies routinely provide top quality robust packaging materials so that is a good place to start. As well as boxes, don’t forget you will also need things like bubble wrap, packing paper, strong tape, and markers.
Label Clearly
It is advisable to mark every box with its contents and the room it belongs in. You’ll thank yourself later when you’re unpacking. Consider using coloured stickers or labels to easily sort boxes by room.
Go Room by Room
When packing it is best to do one room at a time as that helps you stay organised and avoid unnecessary confusion. It also helps ensure nothing is overlooked.
Declutter
Moving is a great time to get rid of all those items you no longer use but have never got round to throwing away. Sort through your clutter you may be able to sell some which could go towards the cost of your move, otherwise just recycle or do a couple of tip runs so that you can start life in your new home with a clean slate.
If you are not a fan of packing or simply don’t have the time, most removal companies offer a comprehensive packing service, where they will not only provide materials but also pack your belongings for you. However, remember this will come at a cost so make sure you budget for it.
Who You Need to Notify
One thing you must do especially if you want to avoid problems or disruption further down the line is to notify all the relevant people and service providers. You also need to ensure your update your address and close or cancel any accounts that you will not be using going forward: Here are a few of the services and organisations you need to contact:
Utility Providers: Contact your electricity, water, and internet suppliers. If transferring services to your new home isn’t possible, be sure to cancel any existing accounts.
Internet Providers: If you don’t want your children having a meltdown it is advisable to contact your internet providers in advance to let them know about your move. In most cases if you contact them a couple of weeks in advance most providers will be able to ensure you are not with an internet connection. This has become more important especially as lot’s of us now rely on the internet when working from home.
DVLA: Make sure you contact DVLAS as soon as possible so the address on your licence can be updated.
Local Authority: Notify your local council to amend your council tax records and ensure you’re registered on the electoral roll at your new address.
Employer and Pension Scheme: Provide your new address to your employer and any pension provider so they can keep their records accurate.
Banks and Financial Institutions: Inform your bank, lenders, and building societies of your new contact details.
TV Licence: Complete the online form with TV Licensing to let them know if you’ll need a licence at your new property.
Insurance Policies: If you’re transferring your home insurance, update the policy with your new details. Otherwise, cancel it and set up a new policy for your new address.
These are all essential services and you need to let them know as a matter of course to ensure you do not encounter problems further down the line. However, there are other what you may class as non essential services it would be appropriate to notify such as:
- GP surgery
- Dentist
- Optician
- Any private health providers
- Education and Childcare
- Online Services and Subscriptions
- Amazon and other online retailers
- Netflix, Spotify, Disney+, etc.
- Online banking apps
- Employer (especially HR/payroll)
- Professional memberships
Friends and Family
Make sure close friends and relatives have your new address and contact info. You can even use this time to send out a moving announcement email or postcard.
Moving Day
The big day has arrived! It can be hectic, but staying organised will help things run smoothly.
Final Clean
Do a thorough clean of your old home before you leave, this is especially important if you’re a renter. Check inside cupboards, wardrobes, and behind furniture. Lets face it you wouldn’t want to move into a house that was untidy and dirty and so its only right that you leave it nice and clean for the new owners.
Keep Essentials Separate
Pack an “essentials box” with things you’ll need during the move and the first night, the last thing you need is to be searching around for things during a busy move as this will only increase stress levels. Some of the things you should put in your essentials kit include:
- Wallet and car keys
- Mobile phone and chargers
- Medications
- Important documents (ID, moving paperwork)
- Toiletries and a change of clothes
- Snacks, sandwiches, water, and tea/coffee
- Toilet paper and hand soap
- Bin bags and basic cleaning supplies
Arrange for Children and Pets
If you can, arrange for your children and pets to stay with trusted family members or friends on moving day. Doing this will help ensure they are safe allowing you to focus on the move without having to worry about them. It also helps minimise stress and disruption for them, making the transition into your new home smoother for everyone concerned.
Final Checks and Meter Readings
Before you lock up and leave for the last time there are a few final checks that you should do such as:
- Take final gas, electricity, and water meter readings.
- Photograph the readings for records.
- Check all cupboards, drawers, and wardrobes.
- Turn off lights, lock windows and doors.
Maybe leave a small information pack for the new occupants, if you’re feeling kind! Include bin collection days, meter locations, and any appliance instructions you have.
Food and Drink
Moving can be exhausting. Prepare sandwiches and drinks in advance, and keep them within reach. Having quick access to food and hydration will keep your energy up and morale high.
After Moving Day
So, you’ve actually made it to your new home and are ready to have all those adventures! Time to settle in but first you should take time to make sure everything is in order. Here are some of the things you should consider doing:
Change the Locks
Changing the locks when you move into a new house is always a good idea, while it may be seen by some as an unnecessary expense there are good reasons for it. When you move into a new property you can never be certain who might still have a key, previous owners may have given copies to friends or contractors and forgotten about them. Replacing the locks gives you full control over who has access to your home, providing peace of mind and protecting your family and belongings.
Do a Full Property Check
Before you start unpacking everything it is worth doing a quick check round looking at things like:
- Test all light switches and power sockets.
- Check that the boiler, heating, and hot water work.
- Inspect for any leaks or damage.
- Identify the main water shut-off valve and fuse box.
Take and Submit Meter Readings
Record and submit your new gas, electricity, and water readings as soon as possible. This ensures you’re only billed for what you use, starting from the day you moved in.
Introduce Yourself to your Neighbours
Say a quick hello to your new neighbours. A friendly introduction sets a positive tone and can be helpful in the long run. They might even share handy local tips like the best takeaway or where the closest shop is.
Recycle Packing Materials
Once you’re unpacked, don’t let the packing boxes pile up. Many councils will collect cardboard or you can take it to a local recycling centre. Some removal companies, including offer a box collection service so it may be worth asking.
There’s no getting away from the fact that moving house can be hard work, however, with the right planning, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following this checklist, you can ensure nothing gets overlooked, reduce stress, and settle into your new home smoothly. At Apex Removals, we’re here to support you every step of the way and make moving day go as smoothly as possible.
Need help with your move? Contact Apex Removals for a professional, friendly, and stress-free moving experience. We’ve got the team, the vans, and the know-how to make your next move your best one yet.