Six to four weeks before the move
Start a room-by-room list of belongings. Decide what to sell, donate or dispose of and identify bulky or fragile pieces. Contact removal firms with accurate collection and destination postcodes, likely dates, property access and packing needs. If you rent, check the tenancy requirements for handing back keys. Do not assume every move includes furniture assembly, packing or waste removal.
Three to two weeks before
Arrange any suitable parking or loading permissions. Tell both buildings or managing agents if lifts must be reserved. Sort important paperwork and keep passports, medication, house keys and essential electronics separate from the boxes. Confirm whether packing materials and disconnection or reconnection jobs are included.
The final week
Label boxes by destination room, pack an overnight bag and back up important files. Empty or prepare appliances according to manufacturer instructions. Photograph fragile or high-value possessions, note any pre-existing damage and identify items the movers should not handle. Recheck the agreed inventory and access.
Moving day
Be available to answer loading questions and confirm which items are staying. Read the paperwork carefully, check rooms and storage spaces before leaving, and inspect delivery arrangements at the destination. Make notes of any issues promptly using the agreed claims process.
After the move
Prioritise beds, essential kitchen items and safety checks. Update relevant organisations with your new address and keep the moving invoice and paperwork. If you need delayed delivery or storage, arrange that before the collection date rather than during the move.