Moving home checklist

Whether you’re moving across the country or to the neighbouring town, preparing for a move can be incredibly stressful and overwhelming.

Between packing boxes, decluttering, finding reliable movers and possibly getting your current home ready for sale, there seem to be an endless number of details to think about.

Planning a move can be a daunting task, but with a little bit of preparation and organisation, it doesn’t have to be.

1. List making

Making a list of everything you need to do before you move will help you stay organised and on track. Include everything from packing your belongings to cancelling your utilities and changing your address.

2. Start packing early

Don’t leave packing until the last minute! Start packing up your belongings well in advance of the big day so that you’re not rushed and stressed on moving day.

3. Purge your belongings

One of the best things about moving is that it’s the perfect opportunity to get rid of any unwanted be-longings. Before you start packing, go through your belongings and purge anything that you don’t need or want. This will make packing and unpacking much easier.

4. Label your boxes

Labelling your boxes will save you a lot of time and hassle when it comes to unpacking at your new home. Be sure to label each box with its contents and the room it needs to go in.

5. Hire professional movers

Hiring professional movers can make your life a whole lot easier on moving day. They can take care of all the heavy lifting for you and will make sure your belongings are transported safely to your new home.

6. Change your address

Don’t forget to change your address! You’ll need to notify Royal Mail, as well as update your ad-dress with any organisations or businesses you’re associated with, for example, contact DVLA and remember to change your TV Licence address.

7. Reevaluate insurance policies

You may consider switching home insurance providers or taking out life insurance. And if this is your first home buy, then ensure that you are covered from day one.

8. Cancel your utilities

Arrange final meter readings and bills. Be sure to cancel all utilities and set up new ones at your new address. This includes electricity, gas and water suppliers, and rubbish collection services.

9. Contact list

Make a list of the contact names and numbers of people and services you’ll be needing to sort out in the first few days of moving to your new home.

10. Pack an essentials box

On moving day, you’ll likely be too busy to unpack all of your belongings right away. Pack an essen-tials box with everything you’ll need in the first few days after the move, such as toiletries, clothes and bedding.

This is not a definitive list but these 10 tips will certainly make the transition to your new home much easier.