The day before

  • Walk through your house one last time and make sure everything is accounted for. Make sure this is done thoroughly, as you want it to be final, otherwise you’ll be doing multiple sweeps in the minutes before the move
  • Strip the beds and pack all covers in a box that travels with you, so you’ll have appropriate bedding for the first night.
  • Make sure you have the keys to your new home, or have an appointment to collect them. Double check these arrangements.
  • Even though you’ve packed a survival kit, you may want to eat out on removals day for convenience, and as a treat for all the family. Book a restaurant to so you won’t struggle to get a table.
The day of the move
 
  • Record all utility readings just before you leave (gas, water, electricity).
  • Stay until your removal company has finished, so you can make sure everything is packed and answer any questions they may have.
  • Check the traffic for your journey to ensure you’re aware of any accidents or delays.
  • Take one final glance around to see if you’ve forgotten anything.
  • Secure windows and ensure all utilities are switched off. Keys, property documents and equipment documents (such as for leftover sofas or dishwashers) should be left at a pre-designated point.
  • You may be asked to sign a packing inventory list by your removals company. Check carefully to ensure you are happy – it may help to compare it to your own list of what you are expecting to bring. You will be asked to sign it again on delivery.
  • Give your removals company directions to your new home and an emergency number where you can always be reached during the move.
On arrival
 
  • Ensure you are present when your moving company arrives, so you can guide them around the house and confirm where items should be placed.
  • Observe the unloading of your items and account for each one on your packing inventory and personal list.
  • Check very carefully for damaged or broken items.
  • Find a safe place for important documents and valuables – you don’t want to lose them once you start unpacking.
  • Go to the Post Office and collect mail. There may be information relating to your move being held.
After you’re in
 
  • Clean and make the beds.
  • Make yourself contactable – plug in telephones, answering machine (you may not be able to hear the phone when you’re hoovering).
  • Plug in and turn on large appliances, especially freezers and refrigerators.
  • Unpack your survival kit and put paper plates and utensils in kitchen cupboards.
  • Allow teenagers and older children to organise their bedrooms and settle younger children in one room with toys and treats.
  • Keep pets away until you are settled. Many animals – especially cats – find it hard to cope with the unpacking process.
Previous: Two weeks to one week before you move

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