Moving day can feel like a whirlwind of boxes, bubble wrap, and balancing acts. From making sure you’ve packed everything safely to keeping track of those small essentials, there's a lot to remember! To make the whole process smoother, we’ve put together the ultimate checklist for moving day. With a little planning and a few handy tips, you’ll be settled into your new home in no time—and your house movers will thank you!
Plus, with over 80% of people in the UK moving house at least once in their lifetime, you’re in good company with those seeking tips for a smooth, stress-free move. So, let’s get moving!
On moving day, there are bound to be a few items you need immediate access to, from phone chargers to toiletries. Set aside an essentials box that includes the following:
Having this essentials box on hand can make the first day and night in your new home much easier. Let your house movers know where this box is packed so it can be the last one to go on the truck and the first one off.
Before moving day, double-check your house move service booking details. Confirm the time, address, and any specific instructions with your moving company to make sure everything goes smoothly. Reputable moving house van services are usually pretty good about communication, but it doesn’t hurt to reach out and confirm any last-minute questions, especially if you have a tight timeline.
This is a tip that often gets overlooked! Take photos of your valuables, especially electronics and furniture, to record their condition before the move. This helps document any potential damage and can come in handy with insurance claims if needed.
Likewise, it’s a good idea to take a few pictures of your old home to show you’ve left it in good condition (especially if you’re moving from a rental). This might help smooth out any deposit returns, should any questions arise.
Sometimes it’s helpful to know the route that your moving house service will be taking, particularly if you’re moving to a new area or across town during peak hours. You’ll have peace of mind knowing where your belongings are and when they’ll arrive, and it can help you plan your own route so you arrive at about the same time.
Packing up a home usually leaves a few areas that could use a quick touch-up, so leave a few basic cleaning supplies unpacked to do a final clean before you head out. Consider having:
After you’re done, pack these supplies up, toss them in your car, or hand them to your house movers for quick unloading at your new place.
It’s tempting to speed through packing by tossing items in boxes and calling it a day. But clear labels go a long way on moving day! Label boxes by both their contents and the room they belong in. Not only does this save time when unpacking, but it also helps the movers know exactly where to place each box.
Most house moving companies will appreciate it, too. They’ll get you set up quicker, leaving you more time to relax in your new space.
No one wants to arrive in a new home only to realise there’s no power or water! Be sure to call your utility companies well in advance to let them know about your move. Arrange to disconnect utilities at your old place and reconnect them at your new one, aiming for the day before you arrive.
This is also a great time to set up Wi-Fi, which can take a few days to be installed.
Before loading the truck, write down a list of all your boxes, ideally noting the contents of each box or category. This way, when you’re unloading, you can check off each box and quickly see if anything is missing.
Professional house move services may provide an inventory list for you, but having your own is a good idea to avoid any confusion and ensure nothing is misplaced in transit.
Once the move is underway, take a minute to introduce yourself to new neighbours. It’s a friendly gesture, and they’ll appreciate knowing a bit about the new folks moving in. You may even get a few tips on the best places for groceries or coffee nearby!
On the flip side, if you’re moving from a property with shared spaces or mail services, leave a quick note for the new tenants. You might include any tips, such as which day bins are collected, any quirks about the property, or forwarding information for any stray mail that may come their way.
Once your boxes are unloaded, and your belongings are settled (even if in stacks of boxes for the moment), it’s time to celebrate! Moving house is no small feat, and you deserve a break. Order a pizza, unpack your essentials box, and enjoy your new space!
There’s a lot to keep in mind when moving house, but a good house move service can make a world of difference. Having experienced movers means you don’t have to worry about heavy lifting, transporting valuables, or ensuring everything arrives in one piece. Whether it’s a quick move across town or relocating to a new city, finding a reliable moving house van service will give you peace of mind and save you a lot of effort.
Ready for moving day? Find trusted house moving services near you to make your move smooth, stress-free, and—dare we say it—fun!