The complete UK house moving checklist
Everything to do from eight weeks out to the day after you get the keys. Print it, tick it off, and stop worrying about what you've forgotten.
8 weeks before
- Get 3–5 removal quotes and check insurance certificates
- Book your removal firm (mid-week dates are 10–20% cheaper)
- Confirm completion date with your solicitor
- Start decluttering room by room — less volume means a smaller bill
- Book time off work for moving day
4 weeks before
- Order packing boxes, tape and bubble wrap
- Notify schools, GP, dentist and vet of your move
- Set up Royal Mail redirection
- Arrange parking permits or bay suspension at both addresses
- Book cleaners for the property you are leaving
2 weeks before
- Start packing non-essentials and label every box by room
- Photograph the back of your TV and electronics before unplugging
- Arrange contents insurance for the new address
- Confirm broadband install date at the new property
- Use up freezer food
1 week before
- Confirm arrival time and crew size with your removal firm
- Pack an essentials box: kettle, mugs, chargers, medication, toilet roll
- Dismantle flat-pack furniture (or confirm the crew will)
- Take meter readings and photograph them
- Withdraw cash for tips and last-minute costs
Moving day
- Walk the crew through the property and flag fragile items
- Keep valuables, passports and keys with you — not on the van
- Final meter readings and photos at both properties
- Check every room, loft, shed and garage before leaving
- Sign the inventory and keep a copy
After the move
- Register with the local council for council tax and bins
- Update driving licence, bank, insurers and the electoral roll
- Test smoke alarms and locate the stopcock and consumer unit
- Change the locks
- Leave a review for your removal firm
Step one: lock in your removal firm
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