A move is easier when you break it into stages. Here’s a simple, practical checklist you can follow — and adjust to suit your own pace.
Before you start
A few quick wins that make everything smoother:
- Create a single folder (digital or paper) for contracts, quotes, and key dates
- Start a moving list (what to do, who to tell, and what to pack last)
- Decide early: removals company vs DIY, and whether you’ll need storage
6–8 weeks out
This is the “lock in the plan” stage.
- Instruct your solicitor (and mortgage adviser / lender if needed)
- Book removals (or shortlist and request quotes)
- Confirm key dates where possible (entry, handover, completion)
- Notify school / nursery if relevant, and plan travel routines
- Start a declutter sweep: charity, recycle, sell, tip
- If you’re selling too, agree how you’ll handle viewings and packing alongside it
2–4 weeks out
This is where momentum matters — small tasks done now save stress later.
- Start packing non-essentials (spare rooms, books, décor, seasonal items)
- Order packing supplies: boxes, tape, labels, bubble wrap
- Confirm utilities: electricity, gas, water, council tax
- Arrange broadband (and check lead times if you’re switching provider)
- Start address updates:
- Bank / cards, DVLA, insurance, GP/dentist, employer, subscriptions
- Plan pets and children for moving day (babysitter, family help, quiet space)
1–2 weeks out
This is “make it easy for future you”.
- Confirm removals time, parking, access, and any awkward items
- Finish packing most rooms — leave only daily essentials out
- Arrange cleaning (DIY or professional)
- Make a simple room plan so boxes go to the right places
- If you have appliances included/excluded, confirm what stays
Moving week
Keep it simple and keep essentials together.
- Pack a “first night” box:
- kettle/tea/coffee, mugs, snacks, loo roll, towels, bedding, basic cutlery
- Put keys, documents, chargers, meds in one bag (do not pack in boxes)
- Photograph meter readings
- Take photos of the property condition (handy for peace of mind)
- Keep tools accessible: scissors, tape, Allen keys, bin bags
Moving day
- Do a final walk-through: cupboards, loft, shed, behind doors
- Lock up, hand over keys, confirm readings
- At the new home: beds first, then kettle, then Wi-Fi
After you’re in
- Update addresses you missed
- Register council tax and confirm utilities are live
- Test heating/hot water, smoke alarms, and any key appliances
If you reserve a home with us, we can provide a tailored checklist based on your plot, expected dates, and whether you’re selling at the same time.