Moving house can be a daunting task, filled with a mix of excitement and stress. Whether you’re relocating across town or to a new city, the process involves many steps and careful planning. Our Best London Removals experts prepared this guide to provide you with comprehensive tips to make your move as smooth and stress-free as possible.
The right way to pack before moving
Room-by-Room packing
Pack one room at a time to stay organised. Start with rooms you use the least, such as guest rooms or storage areas. This minimises disruption to your daily life.
Label everything
Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs in. This makes unpacking easier and helps movers know where to place each box in your new home.
Use a color-coding system
Consider using a colour-coding system for different rooms. For example, use blue labels for the kitchen, red for the living room, etc. This adds an extra layer of organisation and simplifies the unpacking process.
Pack heavy items in small boxes
Avoid overpacking large boxes with heavy items. Instead, pack heavy items like books in small boxes to make them easier to carry.
Use larger boxes for lighter items such as linens and pillows.
Protect fragile items
Use bubble wrap, packing paper, or newspaper to wrap fragile items. Place them in boxes with plenty of cushioning to prevent breakage. Label these boxes as “Fragile” and indicate which side should be up.
Specific items like chandeliers or expensive vases need special care – do not hesitate to inform the moving company of your dearest, fragile belongings.
Hiring professional movers vs. a DIY move
Hiring professional movers can save time and reduce physical strain. Research and get quotes from several moving companies to find the best deal. Check reviews and ensure the company is licensed and insured.
If you prefer to move yourself, rent a moving van or book a man and van service. Enlist friends and family to help with packing and loading. This option can be more affordable but requires more effort and planning.
Moving day tips
Stay organized
Keep important documents, valuables, and essentials in a separate, clearly marked box or bag. Carry this with you to ensure you have immediate access to necessities like medications, toiletries, and important papers.
Supervise the move
Be present on moving day to supervise the process. Ensure movers handle items carefully and follow any specific instructions you have.
Perform a final walkthrough
Before leaving your old home, do a final walkthrough to ensure nothing is left behind. Check all rooms, closets, cabinets, and outdoor areas.
Tip your movers
If you’ve hired professional movers, consider tipping them for their hard work. The amount can vary, but a general guideline is £10-£20 per mover for a half-day move, and £20-£50 per mover for a full-day move.
Settling into your new home
Start by unpacking essentials, including kitchen items, bathroom supplies, and bedding. This allows you to settle in comfortably before tackling less critical items.
Ensure all utilities (electricity, water, gas, and internet) are set up and functioning in your new home. Contact utility providers if there are any issues.
Arrange your furniture in a way that makes your new space functional and comfortable. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different layouts until you find what works best.
Take some time to explore your new neighbourhood. Find nearby grocery stores, pharmacies, and other essential services. Introduce yourself to neighbours and get familiar with your surroundings.
Post-move checklist
Many people think the moving checklist is the most essential thing in organising a house move, and they are probably right. But to be on the safe side and really enjoy a stress-free move, do not forget there are a few things that you should take care of at your new place, so prepare your post-move checklist in advance.
Update your address
Ensure that your new address is updated with all relevant parties, including the postal service, banks, insurance companies, and any other relevant organisations or services to which you hold subscriptions or memberships.
Check home security
Change the locks on your new home for added security. Consider installing a home security system if one is not already in place.
Review insurance policies
Update your home insurance policy to reflect your new address and any changes in coverage needed for your new home.
Inspect your belongings
Check all your belongings for any damage that may have occurred during the move. If you used professional movers, file any necessary claims promptly.
Moving house is a significant undertaking, but with careful planning and organisation, it can be a smooth and even enjoyable process. By starting early, decluttering, packing efficiently, and staying organised, you can ensure a successful move.
Whether you choose to hire professional movers or handle the move yourself, these tips will help you navigate each step with confidence.
Remember, the effort you put into preparing for your move will pay off when you’re comfortably settled into your new home. Happy moving!
