Moving house is consistently ranked among life's most stressful events, and disorganisation is usually the main reason why. A clear checklist, worked through in stages rather than left until the last week, makes the whole process far more manageable. Here's the timeline we recommend to our own customers in London.
Eight Weeks Before Moving Day
- Research removal companies and request quotes, particularly if you're moving on a weekend, when availability books up fastest
- Start decluttering room by room — donating, selling, or disposing of anything you won't need in your new home
- Check your tenancy agreement or mortgage documents for any notice periods or move-related obligations
- If you have children, begin researching schools in your new area if you haven't already
Six Weeks Before
- Book your removal company and confirm the date in writing
- Order any packing materials you'll need: boxes, bubble wrap, tape, and marker pens
- Start using up frozen food, as it doesn't travel well and freezers need defrosting before a move
- Research parking suspension requirements for both your current and new address, if applicable
Four Weeks Before
- Notify your utility providers (gas, electricity, water, broadband) of your move date
- Redirect your post through Royal Mail's mail redirection service
- Update your address with your bank, GP, dentist, and any subscriptions or insurance providers
- Begin packing non-essential items: books, out-of-season clothing, and decorative items
Two Weeks Before
- Confirm final details with your removal company, including access arrangements and any parking permits needed
- Arrange a parking suspension outside your property if required by your local council — this often takes 5-10 working days to process
- Start packing room by room, labelling boxes clearly with their destination room
- Arrange time off work for moving day if needed
One Week Before
- Pack an "essentials box" with items you'll need immediately: toiletries, chargers, medication, important documents, and a change of clothes
- Confirm meter readings will be taken on both moving day and move-in day
- Defrost and clean your fridge and freezer if you're taking them with you
- Double-check measurements for large furniture against doorways and staircases at your new property
Moving Day Itself
- Take final meter readings before leaving your old property
- Do a final walkthrough of every room, including lofts, sheds, and under-stair cupboards
- Keep your essentials box and any valuables with you rather than in the van
- Hand over keys and confirm the property is left as agreed with your landlord or buyer
After You've Moved
- Register with a local GP and dentist if you've moved outside your previous catchment area
- Update your electoral roll registration
- Register your new address with the DVLA if you hold a UK driving licence
- Take meter readings at your new property and set up accounts with the relevant suppliers
A Final Piece of Advice
The biggest source of last-minute stress is almost always underestimating how long packing takes. Starting early — even just an hour a day in the weeks beforehand — makes a bigger difference than any amount of organisation on the day itself.
If you'd rather hand over the packing and heavy lifting entirely, VAN on the MOVE offers both man and van and full removal services across London, with flexible booking to fit your timeline. Get in touch for a free quote and we'll help make your move as straightforward as possible.
