Moving home is a really big job. You need a plan to keep a level head.
It’s going to be a long day, and you’re going to need your strength. A simple list keeps you on the right track.
Quick Read: Moving Day Essentials
To put it briefly, here are the main points:
- Take your last day meter readings for gas, water and electricity.
- Let the local council now that you've moved.
- Label boxes with the names of the rooms.
- Check the loft and the garden shed for any items you've forgotten about.
- Give the keys to the estate agent.
Handling Local Authority Admin and Utility Suppliers
Council Tax & Electoral Register
One of the first things you will have to do is to get in touch with your local council. They will have to close your council tax account as soon as you leave your current address. It’s best to let them know when you are moving, a few weeks before you actually do so.
And remember to register at your new property as soon as you move in so you are on the electoral roll for the next election.
Final Utility Meter Readings
You want to take a picture of the last meter readings so you can be billed correctly. Take a photo of the gas, water and electric meters on your phone. Better get this done on the way out.
Send those readings to your utility companies as soon as you can, to stop the people moving in from charging your account for their energy usage.
Official Documents & Mail Redirection
Update your details with the DVLA. It’s a legal requirement to change the address on your driving licence. You can do this online for free.
Setting up a Royal Mail redirection service is a good idea too. This way, your private post won’t end up at the wrong address and compromise your details.
Essential Materials to Keep Possessions Safe & Sound
Have all your things packed and ready. Sturdy cardboard boxes are essential for anything heavy. Bubble wrap is good for packing around plates and glasses. Make sure you put lots of tape on the bottom of each box. Make sure you have plenty of:
- Large cardboard boxes
- Strong packing tape
- Bubble wrap or packing paper
- Permanent marker pens
- Furniture covers
If you need help, professionals know how to pack items quickly and safely.
Clearly mark each side and the top of each box. Write which room of the new house the box relates to. This simple fix saves the crew a huge amount of time. What if you have large or awkward items? With something like a piano or a very heavy wardrobe, consider a specialist service.
Don’t even think about trying to lift ridiculously heavy items without the proper tools – reputable removal companies will have the straps, blankets and other equipment needed to ensure everything gets there safely.
Managing Your Home Office & Commercial Moves
Are you relocating your business? Office moves involve a lot of cables and electronic equipment.
- Make sure you stick a label on each plug and lead. Keep track of the wires – it's quite easy to lose track.
- If you are stripping desks for the move, keep nuts and bolts in small check bags and tape them to the desk.
Why You Need an Essentials Kit for the First Evening
One thing people sometimes don’t think about is the first night box. You’ll be exhausted from lugging boxes around all day. You won’t want to search through fifty crates to find a spoon, so pack a separate bag with essentials.
First-Night Essentials:
- Kettle, mugs, teaspoons
- Tea bags, coffee, biscuits, milk
- Phone chargers
- Toiletry bag and towels
- Simple tools like a hex key
- Bedding and pillows
Keep this in your vehicle, not in the back of the van. You want to get to it as soon as you arrive to pick up the keys.
Final Property Checks and Handing Over the Keys
It’s time to leave the old place behind you. Have a final look at all rooms, lock the shed and garage, check the loft hatch and under the stairs.
- Make sure all windows are locked
- Lights are switched off
- Double check all taps are turned off
- Empty the fridge and freezer.
- Clean kitchen surfaces.
- Leave an inventory for new owners.
- Drop the keys at the estate agent (most likely the one who handles the key handover).
Moved Removals are top rated house movers in the North West. Every day we help families and businesses move from Chester to Liverpool, from Wales to the Wirral, and everywhere in between.
We’re here to help, so you can focus on the important stuff and settle into your new home.
