Moving Home Checklist

by Movivan | Created Jan ,2024 | Updated Jan, 2026

Moving home can feel overwhelming. There are dozens of small tasks to remember, important deadlines to meet, and decisions that can affect your time, money, and stress levels. That’s why having a moving home checklist is so important.

This guide breaks the entire process into clear, manageable steps — from the first planning stages to settling into your new home. Whether you’re moving for the first time or relocating again, this checklist will help you stay organised, avoid common mistakes, and move with confidence.

Table of contents

Why You Need a Moving Home Checklist

A checklist gives structure to the chaos. By breaking your move into clear stages, you always know what needs to be done and when. This reduces stress, saves time, and helps you avoid last-minute problems that can turn moving day into a nightmare.

When Should You Start Planning a House Move?

Ideally, you should start planning your house removals 7–8 weeks before moving day. This gives you enough time to organise paperwork, compare removal companies, declutter properly, and avoid rushed decisions. Early planning also helps you secure better availability and pricing from movers.

Moving House Planner – 7 to 8 Weeks Before Moving Day

Declutter and Decide What You’re Taking

Begin by determining what you truly need in your new home. Go through each room and separate items into keep, donate, sell, or dispose of. Moving fewer items saves money and makes packing easier.

If you need to get rid of old or broken furniture, you can hire our furniture removal services. We also collect mattresses and appliances.

Give Notice to Your Landlord or Inform Your Solicitor

If you’re renting, inform your landlord within the notice period stated in your tenancy agreement. Failing to do this could result in penalties or loss of deposit. If you’re selling a property, stay in close contact with your solicitor to keep timelines on track.

Start Researching Your New Area

Take time to learn about your new neighbourhood. Look at local news, transport links, schools, GP surgeries, shops, and parking rules. This helps you settle in faster and avoid surprises after moving.

Begin Collecting Packing Supplies

Start gathering boxes, tape, and protective materials. Free boxes can often be sourced from local shops, but professional-grade boxes provide better protection. If you’re unsure how many boxes you’ll need, a removal company can advise on sizes and quantities.

Notify Internet and Phone Providers

Contact your broadband and phone providers early. Some services require long notice periods, and delays could leave you without internet for days or even weeks after moving.

3 to 4 Weeks Before Moving Day

Book a Reliable Removal Company

This is the ideal time to secure a trusted removal company. Look for clear pricing, good reviews, and services that match your needs, such as packing services or storage. Booking early helps ensure availability and a smoother move.

Arrange Parking Permits or Suspensions

Check parking restrictions at both your current and new addresses. Many UK councils require parking suspensions for moving vans, and notice periods can range from a few days to several weeks, depending on the borough. This is very important when moving within London. Parking in some boroughs can be very challenging.

Update Your Address with HMRC and Local Council

Inform HMRC of your change of address and register with your new local council. This ensures your tax records, council tax, and voting registration remain correct.

Organise Mail Redirection

Set up mail redirection through Royal Mail to ensure important letters reach you at your new address. This is especially useful during the first few months after moving.

Review or Arrange Moving Insurance

If you’re arranging your own move, consider moving insurance for peace of mind. Many professional movers provide Goods in Transit insurance, but it’s important to understand what is covered and follow any guidance required for full protection.

Moving Home Checklist – 2 to 3 Weeks Before Moving Day

Arrange Childcare or Pet Care

Moving day can be busy and stressful. Arranging childcare or pet care in advance helps keep everyone safe and allows you to focus on the move.

Hire a Van if You Are Moving by Yourself

Do not leave reserving a van until the last moment, as you might have limited availability and higher rental costs. It is important to choose the right size removal van, so you can fit your furniture and boxes.

Update GP, Dentist and Schools

Register with a new GP and dentist if you’re moving area. Transfer school records if you have children to ensure a smooth transition.

Notify DVLA and Other Key Services

Update your address with the DVLA for both your driving licence and vehicle logbook. Also inform banks, insurance providers, subscriptions, and employers.

Arrange Storage if Needed

Let us know if you will need temporary storage. We can accommodate your needs – from an overnight to a long-term storage, depending on your circumstances. We can collect, store and deliver when the time comes.

If you prefer to use another storage company, we have no problem delivering to the chosen facility.

Related guide: House moving mistakes to avoid

Moving Home Checklist – A Few Days Before Moving Day

Confirm Details with Your Movers

Reconfirm the moving date, arrival time, and directions. Notify your movers immediately if anything changes to avoid delays or misunderstandings.

Start Dismantling Furniture

Begin dismantling flat-pack furniture if needed. Keep screws and fittings in labelled bags. If you prefer, professional movers can handle dismantling and reassembly for you.

Prepare Valuables and Important Documents

Set aside important documents, jewellery, and valuables. Consider keeping these with you rather than loading them onto the moving van.

Prepare Children for Moving Day

Explain what will happen on moving day to help children feel comfortable. Prepare books, games, or charged devices to keep them entertained.

The Day Before You Move

Defrost and Clean Appliances

Defrost your fridge and freezer the day before you move. This helps stop water leaks during transport and prevents damage. Once defrosted, wipe them clean and leave the doors slightly open.

Finish Packing and Label Boxes Clearly

Pack all remaining items, leaving out only the things you will need on the last night and the next morning. Write the room name on each box and clearly mark any boxes with fragile items. This makes unloading faster and helps protect your belongings.

Pack an Essentials Box

Prepare one box with things you will need straight away. This should include toiletries, phone chargers, medication, snacks, basic kitchen items, and clean clothes. Keep this box with you so it is easy to find.

Do a Final Check of the Property

Go through every room and check cupboards, drawers, wardrobes, the loft, shed, and garage. Make sure nothing has been left behind. A final check helps avoid the stress of forgetting important items.

Related guide: How to label the boxes

Moving Home Checklist – Moving Day

Guide the Movers Clearly

On moving day, clearly tell the movers which boxes go into which rooms and point out any fragile or valuable items. Good communication helps prevent confusion and reduces the risk of damage. Being available to answer questions keeps everything running smoothly.

Take Final Meter Readings

Before leaving your old property, record the gas, electricity, and water meter readings. Take photos of the meters as proof for your records. This helps ensure you are billed correctly and avoids disputes with utility providers.

Secure the Property Before Leaving

Once everything is loaded, check that all windows and doors are securely locked. If you are renting, take photos of the property’s condition after it has been emptied and cleaned. These photos can be useful if there are any questions about the state of the property later.

Check the Van Before It Leaves

Before the removal van drives away, do a final walk-through of your old home, including cupboards, sheds, lofts, and garages. Check the van as well to make sure nothing has been left behind. This last check can save you from losing important or valuable items.

Moving Home Checklist – After You’ve Moved In

Return Keys and Complete Paperwork

Once you have moved out, return all keys to your landlord or letting agent as agreed. Make sure any final paperwork is completed, including confirmation of tenancy end dates or sale documents. Doing this promptly helps avoid disputes and ensures your deposit or final payments are processed smoothly.

Check Utilities and Safety Requirements

Check that gas, electricity, and water are working properly in your new home. Test light switches, heating, and hot water as soon as you arrive. It’s also important to check smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and any required safety certificates, especially if you are renting.

Take Photos of the New Property

Take clear photos of every room as soon as you move in, paying close attention to walls, floors, appliances, and existing damage. This is especially important for renters, as photos can help protect your deposit at the end of your tenancy. Store the images somewhere safe in case you need them later.

Change Locks and Settle In

For added security, consider changing the locks shortly after moving in, particularly if you are unsure who may have spare keys. Unpack gradually, starting with essentials, and give yourself time to settle into your new surroundings. Moving home is tiring, so take a break and enjoy your new space.

Common Moving Home Mistakes to Avoid

Underestimating Moving Costs

Many people focus on removal costs but forget extras like packing materials, parking permits, and new household items.

Leaving Packing Too Late

Rushing leads to stress and damaged items. Start packing early for a calmer move.

Choosing Movers Based on Price Alone

The cheapest option isn’t always reliable. Research reviews and services carefully.

Forgetting Important Address Changes

Missing address updates can cause lost mail, fines, or service interruptions.

Related guide: Moving home on a budget

Should You Hire a Moving Company or Move Yourself?

When a DIY Move Makes Sense

A DIY move can work if you’re moving locally with very few belongings and have help available.

When Hiring Movers Is the Better Choice

Professional movers are ideal for heavy furniture, tight schedules, or stress-free moves. For small moves with boxes and bags, a man and van service can be a practical option.

Why First-Time Movers Often Choose Professionals

Movers handle the heavy lifting, protect your belongings, and make the whole process easier and safer.

FAQs About Moving Home

What Is the Best Day of the Week to Move Home in the UK?

The best day to move home is usually midweek, such as Tuesday or Wednesday. These days are often quieter for removal companies and can be more affordable than weekends. Moving midweek also makes it easier to arrange parking, lift access, and council parking suspensions in many UK areas.

How Early Should I Book a Removal Company When Moving Home?

Ideally, you should book a removal company 3 to 4 weeks before your moving date. During busy periods, such as summer months and the end of the month, booking even earlier is recommended. Early booking gives you better availability, more choice, and often better pricing.

Can Removal Companies Help With Packing When Moving Home?

Yes, we provide quick and affordable packing service. Our packers and movers can pack everything for you or help with fragile and valuable items only. Packing services save time, reduce stress, and help protect your belongings during the move.

What Should I Pack First When Moving Home?

When following a moving home checklist, start by packing non-essential items. These include books, decorations, seasonal clothing, spare kitchenware, and items you don’t use daily. Packing early helps spread the workload and makes the final days before moving much easier.

Do I Need Insurance When Moving Home?

Yes, insurance is highly recommended when moving home. It protects in case of accidental damage or loss during the move. Many removal companies include Goods in Transit insurance, but it’s important to understand what is covered and follow any guidelines to ensure full protection.

Having moving insurance is even more important when moving long-distance. Movivan provide free of charge Goods in Transit cover for up to £50,000.

How Can I Make Moving Home Less Stressful?

The best way to reduce stress when moving home is to plan early, follow a clear moving home checklist, and get professional help where needed. Staying organised, decluttering in advance, and using experienced movers can make the entire process smoother and more manageable.

✅ Ready to Move with Confidence?

If you’d like help with packing, transport, or storage, professional movers can make your move easier from start to finish.

Contact us to get expert advice & a free, no-obligation moving quote
📦 Safe handling • 🚚 Professional transport • 🛡️ Fully insured

Tel: 020 800 33260
Mob: 0738 727 5600
Email: office@movivanremovals.co.uk