They say moving house can be one of the most stressful things to do in life, but with the right planning, it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re buying your first home, relocating to be closer to family, downsizing for retirement or moving to a bigger house, there are some steps you can take to make the process run more smoothly.
If you’re planning to move house in 2025, we’ve put together a handy moving checklist to help you get organised and stay on top of tasks.
Get an early start: 8 weeks before
When you first get your offer accepted on a new property, it can feel like you have plenty of time to plan, but the time to move soon arrives. Making an early start on essential tasks will help you be better prepared as the moving day gets closer. Here are some tasks to consider at this stage:
- Consider creating a moving folder to keep track of all the paperwork relating to your move. This could include quotes, contact lists and mortgage information.
- Set a budget for things such as redecorating your new home, removals and packing supplies.
- If you need to take time off work to move, book your leave now to ensure you can be off for moving day.
- Try to declutter your current home so you’re not paying to move items you no longer need – this will also save you a lot of time unpacking.
Book a removal company: 6 weeks to go
Secure your chosen removal company early. Many of them get booked up weeks in advance, especially in busy moving seasons. To keep things running smoothly:
- Decide what services you need, i.e. will you pack yourself or do you want a full-service move?
- Begin getting quotes and comparing them to ensure you’re getting the best value.
Remember to check if your belongings will be covered by your insurance while in transit.
Shortland Horne offers a comprehensive removal service that can be tailored to suit your specific needs. Our friendly team will treat your belongings as if they were their own, so you can relax knowing everything’s in good hands.
Notify important contacts: 4 weeks until moving day
Inform key organisations about your move and, if necessary, your new address. These include:
- Setting up mail redirection with Royal Mail
- HMRC
- DVLA
- Electoral roll
- Utilities such as energy, water and broadband suppliers
- Bank
- Insurance companies
- Building society
- GP
- Dentist
- Opticians
- Subscriptions such as magazines, meal or beauty boxes and Amazon
Start packing: 2-3 weeks ahead of moving day
Avoid leaving packing until the last minute to make it less stressful as moving day approaches. Get organised by:
- Get boxes, bubble wrap, tape and markers.
- Write the contents and which room for each box to make it easier on the day.
- Don’t forget to pack an essentials box with a kettle, refreshments and toiletries.
Final countdown: 1 week left
With just a week left until moving day, it’s time to double-check everything, including:
- Confirm details with your removals company
- Clean your current home
- Plan pet and child care for moving day
On the day
Before you hand over the keys, do a final sweep:
- Check cupboards, lofts and sheds
- Take meter readings and record them
- Lock any windows and doors
Are you looking for a reliable removal company?
If you’re looking for a trustworthy, friendly, and customer-centred removals company, contact Shortland Horne for a competitive and free no-obligation quote.