Moving house is one of the most stressful life events. The best way to reduce that stress is to plan ahead. This week-by-week checklist covers everything you need to do, from 8 weeks before moving day to the day itself.
Print it, bookmark it, or copy it into your notes app. Every item matters.
8 Weeks Before Moving Day
- Confirm your moving date
- Get quotes from at least 3 removal companies
- Book your removal date as soon as you confirm
- Start decluttering: sell, donate, or recycle items you do not need
- Order packing materials if you plan to pack yourself
- Notify your landlord (if renting) in writing
Book your house removals service early. Peak season fills up fast.
6 Weeks Before Moving Day
- Confirm dates with your solicitor or estate agent
- Book a packing service if you want help
- Book a storage unit if you need one between moves
- Start packing non-essential items: books, seasonal clothes, decorations
- Label boxes by room
- Measure doorways and stairwells if you have large furniture
4 Weeks Before Moving Day
- Notify utility companies (gas, electric, water, broadband)
- Cancel or transfer council tax
- Book a professional cleaner for the old property
- Arrange a parking suspension with your local council
- Order new bins and check recycling days for the new area
- Order a change of address with Royal Mail (costs from GBP 33.99)
For London moves, apply for your parking suspension at least 2 weeks before moving day.
3 Weeks Before Moving Day
- Update your address with your bank, credit cards, insurance, and pension
- Notify the DVLA (driving licence and vehicle registration)
- Update your address with your GP, dentist, and any specialists
- Notify your child's school or nursery
- Cancel subscriptions and update delivery addresses
- Confirm your removal booking in writing
2 Weeks Before Moving Day
- Pack most of your home, room by room
- Defrost the freezer
- Clean the oven
- Return library books and any borrowed items
- Collect dry cleaning and any repairs
- Photograph valuable items for insurance purposes
1 Week Before Moving Day
- Confirm your removal team arrival time
- Confirm parking suspension is active
- Pack a first-night box: kettle, mugs, tea, toilet roll, bedding, chargers, toiletries
- Withdraw cash for tips
- Charge all devices
- Finish any remaining packing except essentials
2 Days Before Moving Day
- Dismantle furniture that is not being moved whole
- Wrap mattresses and sofas
- Empty and clean the fridge
- Take down curtains and blinds if included in the move
- Pack the car with items you will take personally
Moving Day
- Get up early and eat breakfast
- Do a final walk-through of every room
- Take meter readings (gas, electric, water)
- Leave keys as agreed with your landlord or agent
- Greet the removal team and walk them through the plan
- Check every item is loaded before the van leaves
- At the new property, direct where boxes and furniture go
- Check nothing is missing or damaged before you sign off
First Week in Your New Home
- Unpack the kitchen first (you will use it most)
- Set up beds and bedrooms next
- Register with a local GP and dentist
- Locate the stopcock, fuse box, and boiler
- Test smoke alarms
- Meet your neighbours
- Explore local shops and transport
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Booking removals too late (limits choice and raises price)
- Forgetting the parking suspension (delays on moving day)
- Not labelling boxes (unpacking becomes chaos)
- Packing essentials in with non-essentials (keep a first-night box)
- Underestimating how much you own (declutter first)
- Not insuring valuables (check your removal quote includes Goods in Transit)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to move house?
A 2-bedroom flat takes about 4 to 6 hours with a professional team. A 3-bedroom house takes 6 to 8 hours. Add 2 to 3 hours if you are packing on the day.
Should I pack before moving day?
Yes. Pack everything except your first-night box at least 2 days before. This reduces moving-day stress and gives you time to check nothing is missed.
Do I tip movers?
Tipping is optional. GBP 10 to GBP 20 per mover is a common thank-you.
What time do movers usually arrive?
Most arrive between 8am and 9am. Confirm the time when you book.
Can I move on a bank holiday?
Yes, but expect premium pricing or limited availability. Book 4 to 6 weeks ahead.
Get Help With Your Move
Whether you need help with the move itself or just the packing, we can help. Call 07459 180023 or request a free quote.
Written by the Vano Removals team. We provide removals, packing, storage, and clearance services across London and the UK.
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