How Do I Prepare for a House Move?

Start preparing for your house move at least 8 weeks before your moving date. The key steps are: book a removal company, start decluttering, notify utility providers, redirect your post, pack room by room, and prepare an essentials box for moving day.

8 Weeks Before: Get Organised

• Book your removal company — book 4–8 weeks ahead, earlier in summer
• Start decluttering — go through each room and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or bin
• Create a moving folder — keep all quotes, confirmation letters, and important documents together
• Research your new area — schools, GPs, dentists, nearest supermarket
• Measure large furniture — check it will fit through doorways and up stairs at the new property

6 Weeks Before: Start the Admin

• Get removal quotes — get at least 2–3 quotes and compare what's included
• Set up Royal Mail redirect — costs from £33.99 for 3 months
• Notify your employer — update your address for payslips and P60s
• Start collecting packing materials — or book our professional packing service
• Book time off work — ideally moving day plus one day either side

4 Weeks Before: Notifications and Packing

• Notify utility providers — gas, electric, water, broadband, TV licence, council tax
• Update your address — bank, DVLA, doctor, dentist, insurance, subscriptions
• Confirm your removal booking — discuss any special items or access issues
• Start packing non-essentials — books, seasonal clothes, ornaments, guest bedroom
• Arrange parking permits — if needed at either property, apply to the local council

2 Weeks Before: Ramp Up Packing

• Pack room by room — label every box with contents and which room it goes to
• Confirm key collection — check dates and times with your solicitor or estate agent
• Arrange childcare or pet care — moving day isn't safe or fun for small children or animals
• Defrost the freezer — start using up frozen food now
• Take photos — photograph behind TVs, router setups, and any cable configurations

1 Week Before: Final Preparations

• Finish packing everything except daily essentials
• Prepare your essentials box — kettle, mugs, tea bags, toilet roll, phone chargers, medication, snacks, bin bags, cleaning supplies
• Disassemble furniture if DIY — or leave it for the crew (they'll handle it on the day)
• Confirm timing with your removal company — agree arrival time, directions, and parking
• Withdraw some cash — for tips, takeaway on the first night, or emergencies

Moving Day

• Take final meter readings — photograph them for your records
• Do a final walk-through — check every room, cupboard, loft, garage, and garden shed
• Be available — direct the crew on what goes where at the new property
• Keep valuables with you — important documents, medication, jewellery
• Hand over keys, remotes, and alarm codes to the new owner or estate agent

After You Move In

• Take meter readings at the new property
• Check all utilities are working (gas, electric, water, heating)
• Register with a new GP, dentist, and on the electoral roll
• Unpack essentials first — beds, kitchen, and bathroom
• Tackle one room at a time — don't try to unpack everything at once

Let Astra Removals Handle Your Move

We take care of everything from packing to storage to the move itself. With nearly 40 years of experience, we've seen every scenario and we'll make sure your move goes smoothly. Get a free quote or call 01202 113 255.

Frequently Asked Questions