Moving to a new house is always exciting, but it can also be a daunting experience. With so many tasks and details to think about, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. Having a comprehensive house moving checklist is an essential step that will ensure a smooth and organised transition.
Below, man and van experts have provided a guide that’ll help you cover everything from packing and logistics to notifying utilities and changing your locks, so you’ll stay on top of the moving process and minimise the stress.
Table of Contents
#1 Confirm the Date of Your Move
The first step to a smooth relocation is choosing the best date. In most cases, people take days off and opt for a Friday to use the extra time on the weekend to unpack at their new place. Besides that, make sure the relocation date is in accordance with your tenancy agreement if you’re a renter.
This can be a difficult decision for families with children depending on the time of the school year, but it’s always an option to move during the school holidays. To help with that, it’s best to plan and prepare in advance and be mentally prepared for changes. Don’t forget to do some research and book a removals service as soon as you know the moving date.
#2 Declutter and Clean Your Space
It’s recommended to start declutteringsome time before your moving day. To help with that process, ask yourself the following questions for different items:
- Do I need that?
- Is there any benefit from holding onto it?
As a general rule of thumb, if you haven’t used it for years, you likely don’t need it.
Additionally, organise everything in boxes. Label each one with the contents inside and leave aside others for “Sell or Donate” and “Throw Away”. The items that are still in good condition but you no longer need, you can sell online. Garage sales are another commonly preferred option. Alternatively, you can also give some items that are still usable to friends and family or donate them to charity, such as clothes, blankets, pillows and toys. Place any items that are beyond repair in the “Throw Away” box and try to recycle as many of them as possible.
#3 Get Quotes and Compare Multiple Removal Services
Moving is stressful enough, but you can make the process smoother by hiring professional movers to save you time.
Before you decide, collect quotes from multiple companies to find the best option in your area and get a general idea of how much the move will cost you. Having this information will make planning your budget more manageable.
The ideal time to book a removals service is usually 4 to 6 weeks before the moving date. However, if you’re in a hurry, some moving companies can also provide a last-minute move.
#4 Contact Your Utility Supplier
Ensure all utility services, such as gas, electricity, and water, are notified of your move. Let them know that you’re moving at least 48 hours beforehand. Sometimes, the notice period may need to be extended, and it’s common for energy companies to request notification of a move at least 30 days ahead of time. If you have a fixed-term contract, you may have to pay an exit fee to break it early.
Some other parties to inform include:
- Your phone and Internet provider;
- Postal service;
- Local council;
- Your workplace;
- The bank;
- Your doctor and dentist;
- Your children’s school;
- Friends and family.
#5 Pack and Label Boxes
Getting good quality packing materials is the first step when you start packing. Collect old boxes from your workplace or ask friends, neighbours or local stores for spare ones. Besides that, you’ll also need packing tape, scissors, markers, sticky labels and bubble wrap.
Packing Tips
Start packing in advance because some moving companies will charge you additionally if you aren’t ready when they arrive. To ensure you’re finished on time, follow these tips:
- Put away the things you don’t need first;
- Pack each room one by one. Don’t move to the next before you’ve finished with the previous one;
- Organise the boxes by size when you’re done packing to make loading them easier;
- Pile lighter packaged on heavier ones;
- Let the movers handle fragile items;
- Label the boxes by room, so your movers will be able to unload the right ones in the right room;
- Identify boxes you want to be unpacked first by labelling them separately.
#6 Find All the Important Components in Your New Property
Once you move to your new place, go through these key steps before you settle in:
- Make sure that the utilities are set up.
- Locate the main water valve and fix any leaks if necessary.
- Find the fuse box and make sure everything is working. If not, call an electrician.
- Check for mould.
- Inspect the house for any other repairs that need to be done.
#7 Clean Your New Home
When moving into a new place, it’s advisable to perform a deep cleaning before settling in. Clean the dust in each room and pay close attention to the corners and the windows.
Deep cleaning the entire property may be challenging, so it’s a good idea to consider hiring a cleaning company for help. They will do a professional job by caring for even the most inaccessible places.
Cleaning the Bathroom
The fans in the bathroom may contain dust, so start with them. After that:
- Apply grout and let it absorb;
- Clean the walls;
- Clean the tub and the toilet. Use a special detergent for this task, and make sure to clean the base of the toilet as well;
- Clean the floors.
Cleaning the Kitchen
If there are built-in appliances in the kitchen, they may have been neglected and need a thorough cleaning. The oven will likely need more attention. If you bring your own appliances, clean them as well and make sure to scrub the countertops. Finish by vacuuming and mopping the floor.
Cleaning the Bedroom
Start by dusting the room from top to bottom. Clean the windows and mop the floor. If there’s already furniture, clean its shelves. If there are any carpets, clean them as well.
#8 Unpack Room by Room
When moving into your new place, prepare a box of essential items beforehand, such as a set of clean clothes, a toothbrush, toilet paper, and other necessities that you’ll need during the first days.
Once you start unpacking, sort the boxes according to their labels and be mindful of the space needed for furniture. It’s best if you plan beforehand how your furniture will be arranged.
Start with the room you feel is the most important to you. If you can’t decide, it’s always best to begin with the bathroom because all the furniture has already been installed. It’s recommended to leave the kitchen for last as there are likely to be more items to unpack.
#9 Consider Getting a Locksmith
Once you move into your new house, it’s a good idea to change the locks. This way, you’ll feel safer in your new place. Think about the window locks as well and check if there are keys for every door. Besides that, a locksmith can install an alarm system to make your new home feel more secure.
Final Words
As you embark on your journey to a new home, a well-executed house moving checklist can be of great help. By following a systematic approach and staying organised, you can reduce the stress and uncertainty that often accompany this process. From the initial planning stages to the last box unpacked, the tips and advice in the checklist above will serve as a roadmap to help you navigate each step with confidence.