Moving-house checklist
A practical checklist for moving house.
A good checklist separates decisions that need attention early from jobs that can wait until the final days. Use this guide alongside your own dates, property arrangements and removal plan.
Four to eight weeks before moving
- Create a complete room-by-room inventory
- Request removal estimates and explain access at both addresses
- Decide whether you need packing, moving boxes, dismantling or storage
- Sort belongings into move, sell, donate and dispose groups
- Check likely completion arrangements and any risks around the moving date
- Begin notifying schools, services or organisations that require advance notice
Two to four weeks before moving
- Confirm the removal arrangements in writing
- Arrange suitable legal parking or loading space
- Order packing materials if packing yourself
- Start with possessions you use least often
- Measure large furniture and check doorways at the new property
- Plan for children, pets, medication and essential documents
The final week
- Finish most packing and label every box by room
- Set aside valuables and documents that will travel with you
- Empty and prepare lofts, sheds, garages and outdoor areas
- Confirm who is dismantling agreed furniture
- Check keys, alarm instructions and access contacts
- Prepare a clearly labelled essentials box
Moving day
- Keep parking and entrances clear
- Walk through the property with the team leader
- Point out fragile, valuable or non-moving items
- Keep phones charged and key contacts available
- Check cupboards, lofts, garages and gardens before leaving
- At the destination, direct furniture and boxes to the correct rooms
After the move
Check that essential services are working, take meter readings where appropriate and report damage or missing items promptly. Unpack important rooms first rather than opening boxes randomly.
Keep the inventory and removal paperwork until you are satisfied that the move is complete.