Moving House Checklist

Moving house goes smoothly when you break it into weeks rather than one giant to-do list. This checklist runs from two months out to your first week in the new place.

Tick things off as you go, and keep one box labelled 'open first' for the essentials.

The importance of a moving day survival kit

On moving day itself, having a dedicated survival kit can make all the difference. Beyond your 'open first' box with essentials like a kettle and tea bags, think about a small bag you keep with you throughout the day. This should contain things you'll need instantly or might misplace in the chaos. A few snacks, drinks, a basic first aid kit, and important documents are good starts. Don't forget chargers for your phone and any necessary medications. This little kit ensures you're prepared for any immediate needs, keeping stress levels down while the removal team (or you!) gets everything sorted into the right rooms.

Packing this survival kit should be one of the last things you do before leaving your old home, and it should travel with you, not in the removal van. Include things like a fresh change of clothes for everyone involved, especially if it's a long day. A small tool kit with a screwdriver for reassembling furniture, a sharp knife for opening boxes, and some bin bags for immediate rubbish are incredibly handy. Even a roll of toilet paper and a hand towel can be lifesavers. Having these bits close by means you won't be rummaging through endless boxes when you just need to find a snack or unwrap a vital item.

Making your new house feel like home

Once the moving chaos settles, the real fun begins: making your new space truly yours. Start by unpacking the essentials in the kitchen and bedrooms. Get beds made up and curtains hung as soon as possible, these small comforts instantly make the place feel more homely. Don't feel pressured to unpack everything at once; tackle it room by room over the first few days or even weeks. It's also a wonderful opportunity to declutter again as you unpack, deciding what really deserves a place in your new chapter. Personal touches, like familiar photographs or favourite throws, can really help you settle in faster and create a comforting atmosphere.

Consider an early 'house-warming' for yourself, even if it's just ordering a takeaway and enjoying it on the floor. It's about marking the occasion and starting to create happy memories. Lighting a favourite candle or playing some music can instantly shift the vibe from an empty shell to a lived-in space. While you'll be busy with practicalities, take moments to just be in your new home. Wander through the rooms, imagine how you'll use them, and let your imagination start to build your future there. It’s these small, conscious acts that turn a house into a home, long before all the pictures are hung.

Eight to six weeks before

• Book a removal firm or van
• Declutter room by room
• Start using up the freezer
• Collect boxes, tape and marker pens

Four to two weeks before

• Tell your council, GP, dentist and bank
• Redirect your post with Royal Mail
• Arrange broadband for the new address
• Notify energy and water suppliers

Moving week

• Pack an 'open first' box: kettle, mugs, loo roll, chargers, bedding
• Take meter readings at both homes
• Defrost the freezer
• Label every box by room

First week in

• Register to vote at the new address
• Update DVLA and car insurance
• Find the stopcock and fuse box
• Say hello to the neighbours

New home card messages

• Happy new home! May it be full of laughter, good food and no flat-pack disasters.
• Congratulations on the keys! Here's to many happy years.
• New house, new memories. So happy for you.

Key things to remember

• Label boxes by room, not contents.
• Photograph meter readings.
• Keep documents and keys on you, not in the van.

Frequently asked questions

Who do I need to tell when I move house?

Your council, bank, employer, GP, dentist, DVLA, insurers, energy, water and broadband suppliers, plus the electoral register.

What should I pack first?

Things you won't need for weeks: books, spare bedding, seasonal clothes and ornaments.

What is a good example of moving House Checklist?

"Book a removal firm or van" is one of 19 examples on this page. Pick the one closest to the tone you want, then add a specific detail of your own - a shared memory, a date, a name - so it reads as yours rather than copied.

Can I copy these messages word for word?

Yes. Everything on this page is free to copy, print and read out - no permission or credit needed. Changing one detail so it fits the person is all we would suggest.

How can I thank my friends for helping me move?

A thoughtful thank you is always appreciated! Consider treating them to a nice meal once you're settled, or sending a small gift card to a local cafe. A heartfelt thank you card with a personal message, perhaps recalling a funny moment from the move, goes a long way. If they helped with the heavy lifting, a practical gift like a robust bottle of their favourite drink or a comfy cushion might be well received too. It shows you appreciate their time and effort during what can be a very demanding day.

What's a good way to recycle or donate unwanted items before moving?

Before you move, sorting through items you no longer need is a brilliant idea. For things still in good condition, think about donating to local charity shops, many offer collection services for larger items. Websites and social media groups are great for giving items away to people who can use them. For anything that can't be reused, check your local council's recycling guidelines for specific materials. Some councils also offer bulky waste collection, often for a small fee. It's a fantastic way to declutter responsibly and ensure your unwanted items find a new purpose or are disposed of correctly.

Where to shop next

• New home gift ideas
• Handy guides: every one
• Planning the party? Birthday party ideas
• How to make a balloon arch
• Photo booth prop ideas
• Congratulations cards
• Good luck cards
• Thank you cards
• Thank you cards guide
• All guides