Note: This article was updated in July 2025 to reflect the latest prices and information.
Moving house is an exciting new chapter, but the journey to get there can be incredibly overwhelming. The key to a smooth and successful relocation isn’t just hard work; it’s smart planning. A disorganised move leads to stress, forgotten tasks, and last-minute panic.
To prevent this, we have created the ultimate moving house checklist. This step-by-step guide breaks down the entire process into manageable phases, from two months out right through to moving day itself. Follow this plan to stay in control and ensure your move is as seamless as possible.
Phase 1: The Foundation (6-8 Weeks Before Moving)
This is the strategic planning stage. The work you do now will prevent chaos later.
1. Declutter and Depersonalise
This is your first and most crucial task. The less you have to pack, the easier and cheaper your move will be. Go through every room, cupboard, and drawer, sorting items into four piles:
- Keep: Items you love and use regularly.
- Sell: Use platforms like Vinted, Facebook Marketplace, or MusicMagpie.
- Donate: Take good quality items to a local UK charity shop.
- Recycle/Bin: Dispose of anything that’s broken or no longer useful.
2. Book Your Removal Company
The best removal firms get booked up months in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Get Three Quotes: Contact at least three different companies for a detailed quote. A home survey (either in-person or virtual) is the best way to get an accurate price.
- Check for Accreditation: Prioritise companies that are members of the British Association of Removers (BAR). This is a strong indicator of professionalism and reliability.
3. Start a “Moving Folder”
Designate a physical ring binder or a digital folder to keep all your moving-related documents in one place. This includes quotes, contracts, contact numbers, and checklists. It’s a simple trick that massively reduces mental clutter.
4. Strategically Use Self-Storage
Renting a self-storage unit is a professional-level move. It allows you to declutter effectively and prepare your home for viewings without cramming everything into your garage. Move non-essential items like seasonal clothing, sentimental belongings, and excess furniture into storage early. This makes your house look bigger and more appealing, and dramatically reduces the packing workload closer to moving day.
Phase 2: The Action Phase (2-4 Weeks Before Moving)
With the date approaching, it’s time to get practical.
5. Start Packing Non-Essentials
Begin packing items you won’t need in the coming weeks. Good starting points include:
- Books, CDs, and DVDs.
- Out-of-season clothing and shoes.
- Decorative items, pictures, and ornaments.
- The contents of your loft, garage, or spare room.
6. The Admin Blitz: Notify Everyone
Work through this list and inform key organisations of your move date and new address:
- Utilities: Gas, electricity, water, broadband, and TV providers.
- Council Tax: Inform both your current and new local council.
- Financial: Banks, credit cards, pension providers, loans, and savings accounts.
- Official: DVLA (for driving licence and vehicle V5C), HMRC, and the Electoral Roll.
- Health: Your GP, dentist, and optician.
- Royal Mail: Set up mail redirection to your new address to catch any post you’ve missed.
7. Organise Your Packing Materials
If your removal company isn’t providing them, order your packing supplies now. You will need strong boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and a good marker pen.
Phase 3: The Final Countdown (The Week Before)
The finish line is in sight. Focus on these crucial final tasks.
8. Pack Your “Essentials Box”
This is the most important box you will pack. It should travel with you in the car, not the removal van. It contains everything you’ll need for the first 24 hours in your new home.
- Include: Kettle, tea/coffee, mugs, snacks, toilet roll, essential toiletries, phone chargers, basic tools (screwdriver, knife), and any vital medication.
9. Finish Packing and Label Everything
As you pack your final boxes, label them clearly with two pieces of information: the room they belong in and a brief summary of the contents. This will make unpacking a logical and straightforward process.
10. Prepare for the Last Day
- Defrost your fridge and freezer.
- Confirm timings with your removal company.
- Keep important documents (passports, moving paperwork) in a safe and accessible place.
Phase 4: Moving Day
- Take Meter Readings: Before you leave your old property, take photos of your gas, electricity, and water meters. Do the same as soon as you arrive at your new home.
- Guide the Movers: At your new property, be on hand to direct the removal team where to place boxes and furniture, according to your labels.
- Final Check: Do one last sweep of your old home, checking every cupboard and room to ensure nothing has been left behind.
- Assemble Beds First: Once the essentials box is open, the next priority is to build the beds. After a long and tiring day, you’ll be incredibly grateful for a proper place to sleep.
By following this checklist, you can transform a potentially chaotic experience into a well-managed project, setting you up for a positive start in your new home.