Moving Into a New Home Checklist
Moving house can be so exciting, but ever so stressful too. With a little planning it doesn’t have to be quiet so stressful and you might actually enjoy it.
As soon as you can start collecting boxes. They can be flat packed till you need them and you can never have too many. Also stock up on parcel tape and marker pens. If you do have too many boxes you can put some of the flattened boxes down to protect carpets etc. Essential if the weather isn’t on your side.
When you do start to pack do it room by room and label your packed boxes on the top and sides as you go. That way when you’re at the other end you can easily see which box goes in which room. If you’re getting the professionals in to move you such as Pickfords, Handy Moves and Clockwork Removals, you will need to hire them a few weeks before and quotes a few weeks before that.
If you’re doing the move yourself and borrowing a van or a friend with a van is helping, work out which is the biggest piece of furniture you need to move. Measure it and then make sure that fits in the van you are using. It will normally wither the sofa or fridge freezer. Of course the bigger the van the least trips will be needed.
If you can start packing early it’s a good idea to do a sort out as you go. That way you’re not packing, moving and then unpacking stuff you don’t use. It’s also a good chance to do a sort out as you will be doing the rooms you don’t go in so much like lofts or cellars. When doing small children’s rooms ask them what they want to keep not what they want to get rid of. That way there are far more likely to say the things they want. If you ask them what they want to get rid of they probably say none of it. Be ruthless and use the ‘have I used it in the last year’ rule. Put out for rubbish stuff that is broken or beyond use. If it’s got life in it then it can go to the charity shops. You’ll be surprised how many people move boxes they didn’t even unpack from their last move.
Check the weight of your boxes as you’re packing as you need to be able to carry them. You can always fill any space with lighter things like a cushion or a blanket. Pack in order too; pack the things less used first. That way when your packing the last few boxes these are the things you use the most and will be first to hand when you unpack.
If possible clean the new house before you start moving boxes in. It’s not only easier but you will be more likely to be in the mood to clean than when all the boxes and furniture are in.
On moving day make sure you pack essential things like kettle, mugs and tea bags last and in one box. That way as soon as you’re in you can make a cuppa. It is also a good idea to think about food. It’s too easy to get caught up in carrying boxes back and forth and forget that not only you but your trusty helpers could probably do with food at some point. Repacked sandwiches or anything else quick and easy.
Make a list of the all the places and people you need to notify of your change of address. Also look into having your post redirected for the ones you have forgotten.
Don’t forget the pets in your family. Moving can be distressing for them as their routine will be disturbed but also their surroundings are changing. Make sure cats are in before removals start or otherwise they may get too scared and not come back in. Dogs could be kept in a room or on a led whilst the removals are happening. Once in the new house make sure cats are kept in for few days till they adjust and walk the dog soon as you can so they get used to the new surroundings and smells. Consider putting your pet in a cattery/kennel whilst moving to ease their stress or with a neighbour or family.