Ultimate Guide to Moving House
Moving house can be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time using a removal company or if it’s been a while since your last move. Figuring out whom to trust with the safe relocation of your valuable belongings during a stressful time is a daunting task.
To make the process easier, we’ve created this guide to help you get started!
1. Planning Your Move
Start Early: Begin planning your move at least 8 weeks in advance. This gives you enough time to organise everything without last-minute stress.
Create a Moving Checklist: List all tasks you need to complete before, during, and after the move. Break it down week by week.
Set a Budget: Determine how much you can spend on the move, including removal services, packing supplies, and any additional costs.
2. Hiring a Removal Company Research and Compare:
Look for reputable removal companies, read reviews, and get multiple quotes. Ensure they offer the services you need. (We have top rated Google reviews for peace of mind).
Book Early: Once you’ve decided on a removal company, book them as early as possible to secure your preferred moving date.
Insurance: Check if the removal company offers insurance or if you need to arrange it separately for your belongings during the move. (We do).
3. Declutter and Downsize
Sort Your Belongings: Go through your items and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or throw away.
Garage Sale: Organise a garage sale or use online platforms to sell items you no longer need.
Donation: Donate usable items to local charities or shelters.
4. Packing Your Belongings
Gather Supplies: Get boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and markers. Use sturdy boxes of various sizes.
Pack Strategically: Start with items you use least frequently. Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to.
Fragile Items: Wrap fragile items carefully in bubble wrap or packing paper. Mark these boxes as “Fragile.”
Essentials Box: Pack a box with essential items you’ll need immediately after the move, like toiletries, a change of clothes, and basic kitchen supplies.
5. Notify Important Parties
Change of Address: Notify the post office, banks, insurance companies, and other important institutions of your new address.
Utilities: Arrange for the disconnection of utilities at your old home and the connection at your new home (electricity, water, internet, etc.).
Update Contacts: Inform friends, family, and your employer of your new address.
6. Preparing Your New Home
Clean: If possible, clean your new home before moving in. Consider hiring a professional cleaning service for a thorough clean.
Repairs and Maintenance: Complete any necessary repairs or maintenance tasks before moving in.
Plan Layout: Decide where your furniture and major items will go in your new home. This will make unpacking easier.
7. Moving Day
Early Start: Begin the day early to ensure you have plenty of time to complete the move.
Supervise: Be present to oversee the loading and unloading of your belongings. Check that everything is handled with care.
Final Walkthrough: Do a final walkthrough of your old home to ensure nothing is left behind.
8. Settling In
Unpack Essentials: Start with the essentials box and gradually unpack room by room.
Organise: Take your time to organise your new home. Don’t rush the process.
Check Utilities: Ensure all utilities are working properly in your new home.
Explore Your New Area: Get to know your new neighborhood. Find local services, shops, and amenities.
9. Post-Move Tasks
Update Documents: Update your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and other important documents with your new address.
Review Finances: Check your moving expenses against your budget and adjust accordingly.
Leave a Review: Share your experience with the removal company to help future customers.
By following this guide, you can ensure a more organized and less stressful moving experience. Happy moving!
