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Preparing to move

As anyone who has moved home will tell you, there’s a lot more to it than simply moving your belongings from one place to another. Here are our top tips so you can focus on the fun bit of turning your new house into a home.

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Start by decluttering your home and embracing a fresh start. Be honest with yourself – sell, donate, gift or recycle anything you no longer need or love. The less you take, the easier moving day will be, and there’s something so freeing about stepping into your new home feeling a little lighter.

Do you need professional movers? If you're moving without furniture, for example, from your parents' home or a furnished rental property, a car and some helpful loved ones might be all you need. Or you could rent a van, which can be more cost-effective than hiring a removal company.

If you're moving furniture and larger items, hiring a professional removal company might be the best option. Now is a good time to start gathering quotes, but the real planning begins once you've exchanged contracts and set a confirmed moving date.

It’s a good idea to start stocking up on packing materials like boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, tape and labels. Having everything ready in advance will make the packing process so much easier.

A man and a woman moving a green sofa out of a living room filled with boxes.

Your first few days in your new home

Just moved in and not sure where to start? Not to worry. Explore our helpful guide on the first few days in your new home.

Once your moving date is set, it’s time to let people know your new address. Update your bank, utility providers, phone and internet services so everything’s ready at your new home.

Don’t forget to tell your employer, school and colleges and your local council. To make sure no important letters go astray, set up mail redirection with the Post Office. A little planning now will save you a lot of hassle later.

Before you move in, we’ll invite you to a home demonstration with one of our friendly team members. It’s a great chance to get to know your new home, learn how the heating and appliances work and make sure everything is just right before moving day.

Make packing easier by sorting your belongings into three simple categories:

A. First day essentials – items you'll need right away, like your kettle, toaster, towels and bed linen.

B. Important but not urgent – things you'll need soon but not immediately, like your TV, clothes and kitchenware.

C. Non-essentials – items you can pack early, such as books, decorations and seasonal clothing.

To avoid last-minute chaos, start packing non-essentials well in advance. Most moving pros suggest you should start packing one to two months before your moving date.

A man and a woman hugging in a room filled with moving boxes.

It may seem obvious, but labelling your boxes is a game changer. Write down which room each box belongs in and a quick description of what’s inside – on both the top and the side. This way, you’ll save time and frustration when unpacking in your new home.

You're almost there. One of the last things to do is to pack a ‘day one’ box, filled with things you’ll need right away, like your phone charger, tea, coffee, toiletries, cleaning wipes and a take-away menu (because let’s be honest, you probably won’t feel like cooking). Make sure that box travels with you, not in a removal van.

Before you leave your old place, make sure to record your gas, electric and water meter readings. Jot them down or, better yet, snap a quick photo for easy reference. This simple step can help prevent any billing disputes and gives you one less thing to worry about as you settle into your new home.

A blond woman placing a cardboard moving box in a kitchen with blue cabinetry.

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Preparing to move

1. Declutter your home and make your move simpler and more stress-free

2. Choose the right removals option and plan your move with confidence

3. Stock up on packing supplies

Your first few days in your new home

4. Update your address and stay organised for a smooth move

5. Get to know your new home with a pre-move demonstration and expert guidance

6. Pack smart and stay organised for a smooth, stress-free move

7. Label your boxes clearly to save time and avoid moving day stress

8. Prepare a ‘day one’ essentials box for a smooth and stress-free move-in

9. Take final meter readings to avoid billing issues when you move

Find your sanctuary

Select Options