Once contracts have been exchanged and your completion date is fixed, the countdown to moving day begins. The final two weeks can feel hectic, with packing, paperwork, bookings and goodbyes all competing for your attention. A clear plan makes everything easier and reduces the chance of forgetting something important. This checklist breaks the final fortnight into manageable steps so you arrive at your new home organised and ready to settle in.
Two Weeks Before Moving Day
Confirm Your Removals
Contact your removal company to confirm the date, arrival time and any extra services, such as packing or dismantling furniture. Check access at both properties, including parking restrictions, narrow roads or stairs. If parking is limited, you may need to arrange a parking suspension with your local council.
Start Packing Non-Essentials
Begin with items you will not need before the move, such as books, ornaments, seasonal clothes and spare kitchen equipment. Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs in. This makes unpacking far easier.
Declutter as You Go
Moving is a great opportunity to get rid of things you no longer need. Donate, sell or recycle unwanted items, and book a bulky waste collection if necessary. The less you move, the cheaper and easier your move will be.
Notify Important Organisations
Start updating your address with:
- Your bank, building society and credit card providers
- Your employer and pension providers
- HMRC and the DVLA
- Your GP, dentist and opticians
- Insurance providers
- Subscription services and online retailers
Consider setting up Royal Mail redirection to catch any post you miss.
One Week Before Moving Day
Arrange Utilities and Services
Contact your gas, electricity and water suppliers to let them know your moving date. Arrange broadband for your new home in advance, as installation can take time. Inform your local councils so council tax is closed and opened correctly. Update your TV licence too.
Plan for Children and Pets
Moving day can be stressful for children and pets. Consider arranging for them to stay with family or friends, or book a pet sitter or kennel. Pack a bag with favourite toys and comforts to help them settle into the new home.
Use Up Food
Try to use up frozen and perishable food in the week before your move. Defrost your freezer a day or two before moving if it is being transported.
Confirm Arrangements With Your Agent and Solicitor
Check how and when you will collect the keys to your new home and where you should leave keys for your old one. Make sure you know who to contact on the day if there are any delays.
A Few Days Before Moving Day
Pack an Essentials Box
Prepare a box or bag with everything you will need for your first night, including:
- Kettle, mugs, tea, coffee and snacks
- Phone chargers
- Toiletries, towels and toilet roll
- Medication
- Bedding and a change of clothes
- Basic tools, such as a screwdriver and scissors
- Important documents
Keep this box with you rather than in the removal van.
Prepare Your Old Home
Gather instruction manuals, warranties and spare keys to leave for the buyer. Make a note of how the heating, alarm and appliances work. Arrange a final clean, or book a cleaning company.
Moving Day
Take meter readings at both properties and photograph them. Check every room, cupboard and loft space before you leave. Make sure windows are closed and doors are locked. When you arrive at your new home, check that everything included in the sale is present and locate the stopcock, fuse box and meters.
After You Move
Unpack essentials first, then work room by room. Register with local services if you have moved to a new area, and update your address on the electoral roll. Take time to explore your new neighbourhood and introduce yourself to neighbours.
Final Thoughts
A clear checklist helps you stay organised and makes moving day far less stressful. If you are planning a move in Hertfordshire, speak to Bishops stortford estate agents who can guide you through every stage of your sale or purchase, keep your move on track and help you settle into your new home with confidence.
