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The Ultimate Moving House Checklist and What to Do Before the Big Day

Headshot of Dennis Rogers
Dennis Rogers

For Dennis Rogers, removals and storage is in his blood. He has worked in the industry since 1995 and personally managed an estimated 50,000 moves.

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Categories: Checklists Moving

Photo by: Glenn Carstens-Peters

Use this step-by-step checklist to stay on top of your move, from sorting belongings to settling into your new home.

Planning a house move? Whether you are relocating across London or further afield, a clear timetable makes the work easier to manage. Use this checklist to decide what to do, when to do it, and what to keep close on moving day.

6 to 8 Weeks Before the Move

  • Declutter room by room. Decide what to keep, sell, donate, recycle, or dispose of responsibly.
  • Research removal companies and request like-for-like quotes so you can compare the service, timing, and access assumptions.
  • Create a moving folder for paperwork, quotes, receipts, and key contact details.
  • If you rent, check your notice period and agree the move-out arrangements with your landlord or agent.
  • Decide whether you need storage for items that will not move straight into your next home.

4 Weeks Before the Move

  • Pack non-essential items such as seasonal clothes, books, and decorative items.
  • Label every box with its destination room and a short description of the contents.
  • Update your address with your bank, GP, insurer, subscriptions, and the DVLA.
  • Order boxes, tape, protective wrapping, and markers.
  • Arrange time away from work if your move requires it.

2 Weeks Before the Move

  • Confirm your removal date, arrival time, loading access, and any special handling requirements.
  • Arrange childcare or pet care for moving day if that will make the day calmer and safer.
  • Set up a Royal Mail redirection so important post reaches you.
  • Dispose of hazardous or non-transportable items such as paint and cleaning fluids through the appropriate local service.

1 Week Before the Move

  • Pack an essentials box with toiletries, chargers, snacks, toilet roll, basic tools, and a kettle.
  • Defrost and clean your freezer in time to prevent leaks.
  • Tell utility providers about the move and plan to take final meter readings.
  • Clean the property yourself or book a service if needed.

Moving Day

  • Keep passports, medication, valuables, and important documents with you.
  • Check every room, cupboard, loft, and shed before you leave.
  • Photograph meter readings and make sure the property is secure.
  • Unpack essentials first, then take a short pause before tackling the rest.

When Storage Can Help

Not everything needs to move on the same day. Storage can give you room to manage a gap between homes, a smaller new property, or a phased unpacking plan.

If you need help with removals or storage in London, request a quote and explain your dates, access, and any items that need particular care.

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