With so many tasks to juggle, moving house is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. It’s easy to forget something important. That’s why we’ve created the ultimate moving house checklist: to help you stay organised, reduce stress, and make your move as smooth as possible.
From who to inform when moving home to packing essentials and moving day must-haves, this step-by-step guide has you covered.
Moving House Checklist: At a glance
- Confirm your moving date
- Book removals and any cleaners or contractors
- Declutter and start packing non-essentials
- Notify key organisations of your new address
- Set up insurance, utilities, and broadband
- Book time off work and ask friends/family for help
- Pack a moving day essentials bag
- Take final meter readings
- Lock up, move out, and settle in
Let’s take a closer look at everything you need to do before, during, and after the move.
4-6 Weeks Before the Move
Confirm your moving date
Once contracts are exchanged and you’ve agreed a completion date, confirm it with your solicitor and all parties involved.
Book a removals service
Research local removal companies and book early to secure your preferred date. If you're moving large items or need packing support, look for services that offer full-house moves. Alternatively if you're doing the heavy lifting yourself, shop around van hire companies to make sure you get the best price.
Declutter and donate
Now’s the perfect time to clear out anything you no longer need. Donate, recycle, or sell items to lighten your load and potentially reduce removal costs.
Gather packing supplies
Stock up on boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and labels. Many people underestimate how many boxes they’ll need, so over-prepare.
Ensure life Insurance and mortgage is in order
Life insurance can often cover your home so it’s a good idea to make sure this is all set up before moving. Most people sign up for this during their mortgage process as many lenders find it favourable, so you may have already ticked this box.
2-3 Weeks Before the Move
Start packing non-essentials
Pack seasonal items, books, and anything you won’t need before the move. Label each box clearly with its room and contents.
Notify key organisations of your new address
Be sure to update your address with:
- Utility providers (gas, electricity, water)
- Broadband and mobile networks
- DVLA (driving licence and vehicle log book)
- Council tax
- HMRC
- Banks and credit card providers
- Home, car, and life insurance companies
- Healthcare providers (GP, dentist, optician)
- Employer and pension provider
- Schools or childcare providers
- Streaming, shopping, and subscription services
- Loyalty cards and reward schemes
Tip: Set up Royal Mail redirection to catch any post you’ve missed.
1 Week Before the Move
Pack your essentials bag
This should include everything you’ll need for the first night in your new home:
- Toiletries and towels
- Change of clothes and pyjamas
- Kettle, tea, coffee, mugs, and snacks
- Bedding and toilet roll
- Chargers and devices
- Pet food and supplies
- Basic cleaning supplies
Confirm arrangements with your removals company
Double-check times, addresses, access requirements, and parking. Let them know about any bulky or fragile items.
Take final meter readings
Record electricity, gas, and water meter readings and share them with your suppliers. Take photos for your records.
Moving Day Essentials
Moving day can be hectic, so it’s a good idea to have a clear plan and a few key items easily accessible.
Before your removals team arrives, set aside any valuables such as jewellery, passports, and property documents and keep them with you during the move for peace of mind. Prepare a separate box or bag with emergency essentials like medications, house and vehicle keys, toiletries, and kitchen basics such as mugs, snacks, and a kettle. Having food and water ready will also help you stay energised throughout the day.
Pack fragile items separately and clearly mark the boxes so they’re handled with care. It’s also helpful to keep some waste cloths or old towels nearby for last-minute spills or floor protection. If you have any regular help at home, such as a cleaner or family member, you may want to ask them to lend a hand on moving day.
Finally, do one last round of decluttering and make sure to dispose of any waste before you leave. The less you carry, the easier the move will be.
After You’ve Moved
Update any remaining contacts
If you’ve missed any address updates, now’s the time to sort them out.
Register with a new GP or dentist
If you’ve moved to a new area, you may need to re-register for local healthcare services.
Check your council tax and bins
Find your new council tax band and local bin collection days online.
Leave a review
Thank your removals team with a review or recommendation, especially if they made the process easier for you.
FAQs
What do I legally have to change when I move house?
In the UK, you're legally required to update your address with the DVLA for both your driving licence and vehicle log book (V5C). You must also inform your local council for council tax purposes and update your details with HMRC for tax and National Insurance records.
Other important updates include your electoral registration and TV Licence, as these must reflect your current address. If you have insurance policies, such as car or home cover, it’s vital to update them too - outdated information could invalidate a claim.
Who do I need to inform when I move house?
You’ll need to update your address with utility providers, your local council, DVLA, HMRC, banks, healthcare providers, insurers, and more. See the full list above.
What do I need to pack first when moving?
Start with non-essentials like books, seasonal clothes, and decorations. Leave day-to-day items until the final week.
How do I make moving house less stressful?
Start planning early, stay organised, and use a checklist like this one. Declutter in advance and keep an essentials bag handy for moving day.
How early should I start packing to move house?
Ideally, 4-6 weeks before your move. Begin with the things you use least, and gradually work your way through the house.
Final Thoughts
A little preparation goes a long way when moving house. By using a checklist and staying organised, you can enjoy a smooth transition into your new home and focus on the excitement of this new chapter.
Looking for your next home? Explore our available homes and showhomes across the UK.