Free Moving Checklists

  • Put together a 'moving book' to keep notes of what you need do, what you've done etc.
  • Use this checklist to help you assess what you need to do and when and write out your own plan.
  • Buy a file to store all the documentation and paperwork associated with the move.
  • If you haven't got a moving company retain J and N Moving!
  • If you need to move vehicles, pets or specialist items and you need outside help start sorting it out now.
  • If you need to use storage facilities look at your options and book it.
  • Make a list of everyone you need to notify of your change of address.
  • Start contacting key financial providers such as your bank or other institutions to have your details changed and to start up the process of canceling/setting up automatic payments and/or accounts etc.
  • Notify schools and employers of change of address. If moving out of the area you'll need to register your kids for a new school.
  • Start packing non-essential stuff (it's never too soon to begin!) whenever you have some free time.
  • Buy, hire, beg, or borrow suitable boxes and containers to pack your belongings into.
  • Talk to your doctor, dentist, veterinarian etc., to notify them of your change of address or to come off their books if necessary. In some cases, you may need to get copies of your records to take with you. If moving abroad ask about vaccinations etc. If you or your family (or pets) have regular medical prescriptions, get them filled to cover you throughout the moving process. If you're moving out of the area ask for referrals to new practices.
  • Contact all of your insurers (home, vehicle, medical etc) to notify them of your move. Ask your home insurer for details of your existing coverage for the actual and arrange new coverage or a transfer to your new home.
  • Get a lockable box and start putting in important documents as you come across them.
  • Give all service providers such as gardeners, domestic help and regular delivery services notice that you will be moving. Cancel or change any subscriptions or memberships you have.
  • Send out change of address notices to friends and family if you have a firm moving date now. You'll have less time as the days pass so it's good to get this out of the way.
  • Get a form from your local Post Office for their mail forwarding service, fill it in and send it off.
  • Start making an inventory of your goods and take photos/videos of valuable items.
  • Complete any repairs to your home that you are committed to.
  • Contact utility companies and service providers to arrange to have your appliances/services disconnected and, if necessary, reconnected in your new home.
  • Move your packing up a gear. Take a room a day and start packing up stuff you don't use regularly.
  • Take back library books, pick up dry-cleaning and think about any other similar things you may have pending in the area.
  • Have your car(s) serviced.
  • Start living off your store cupboard and freezer and stop buying frozen or perishable food - you can't really take it with you and it'll make the move easier.
  • Put aside a box/boxes for personal/essential items that you want to take with you yourself rather than have the movers take. Start putting stuff in it as you come across it. Mark it DO NOT MOVE so your movers don't load it by mistake.
  • Pack up your garage and any stuff that is stored in your yard, garden or sheds.
  • Empty your lawnmower and power tools of fuel etc.
  • Dispose of anything that is flammable or hazardous.
  • Think about what you're going to do with the kids!
  • Call your mover and any other companies involved with the move (vehicle movers, storage facilities etc) and confirm all of your arrangements, times etc.
  • Carry on packing!
  • Start taking apart furniture that needs to be disassembled.
  • Check that your new home is still set to be insured.
  • Make sure all your outstanding bills are paid.
  • Defrost and clean your refrigerator/freezer and secure major appliances such as washing machines/cookers etc. Make sure that utility companies are confirmed to disconnect services/take meter readings etc.
  • Finish taking apart furniture that needs to be disassembled.
  • Sort out any plants you're taking with you.
  • Check that all the paperwork related to your house sale/rental/purchase is complete.
  • Close bank accounts if necessary.
  • Finish your major packing.
  • Pack up your PC and other electrical equipment. Write down the serial numbers in your moving book.
  • Put together a box of essentials for the move such as tea, coffee, mugs, sugar, tools, paper and pen and cleaning materials.
  • Make sure all boxes are clearly marked/ labeled.
  • Start cleaning the house as you go along.
  • Make sure you have all the documents related to your move to hand.
  • Moving day at your old home.....
  • Get up early and don't panic!
  • Take bedding off beds and pack it up.
  • Walk your movers through the house, tell them what you need them to do and take their advice on the actual loading.
  • Make sure your movers know where they are going.
  • Give the house a final clean.
  • Leave a note of your name, new address and contact number for the new residents of your home so they can forward any mail that slips through the cracks.
  • Have a final walk round to check you've remembered everything - do this BEFORE the moving vehicle leaves!
  • Make sure you have keys to your new home and drop off your current keys as you've arranged.
  • Make sure you load everything you're taking yourself in the car and lock it!
  • Switch everything off, lock up and leave!

Packing Tips

Although the decision of moving your home can be exciting, packing is something most of us dread. 
Knowing where and how your items have been packed can be helpful.

Your move will be easier and smoother if you do a good job of pre-planning. Here are several handy tips to help you get started.

  1. Always create a thorough and complete inventory of what you will be moving to your new address.
  2. Don't forget to photograph or videotape any unique or valuable belongings.
  3. It's also wise to make a note of the serial numbers on your electronic equipment.
  • Strong Boxes.
  • Wardrobe Boxes with Hanger Bars.
  • Packing Tape.
  • Bubble Wrap, Newspaper, Wrapping Paper, and Tissue Paper.
  • Ziploc Bags.
  • Magic Markers.
  • Wrap all your breakable items in bubble wrap, wrapping paper, or tissue paper.
  • Because newspaper may leave ink smudges on your items, it should only be used to cushion items that are already protected.
  • You can use old linens, blankets, and towels to wrap and cushion fragile items.
  • Ziploc bags can be used for small odds and ends that usually clutter your drawers.
  • It always makes good sense to begin packing well ahead of the move.
  • We strongly recommend that you use good quality, strong moving boxes, and always be certain that the bottoms are fully secured.
  • Don't get overwhelmed. Try to concentrate on one room at a time. Be sure that every box is clearly labeled by room and item.
  • Once your moving boxes are filled, they should be placed in an area close to your front door.
  • Any items that you don't need for your daily living routine should be packed first.
  • Important items (such as photographs, wills, jewelry, home videos, and any other important documents) should be packed separately so that you can personally carry them with you on moving day. Another alternative you might want to consider is placing these belongings in a safety deposit box until after the move.
  • Fragile items should be packed loosely with plenty of wrapping. The boxes must be clearly labeled "FRAGILE", and finally you will want to stack them towards the top of your piles.
  • Non-breakable items should be packed snugly in smaller boxes. You will want to make sure that they are not too heavy, and that they are at a weight you feel comfortable carrying. Don't forget to pack your books flat, alternating the bindings so they will stack evenly.
  • When possible, small appliances and electronic equipment should be packed in the boxes they came in, and then taped securely.
  • In order to avoid unnecessary ironing later on, make sure you have enough wardrobe boxes.
  • When disassembling your bed, use tape or rope to bind the frames together.
  • Your drawers should be filled with wrapped items or clothes. Entire drawers should be covered with a blanket or old linens. You shouldn't tape the drawers shut - the finish on your drawers may be damaged.
  • Cover your tables with a blanket or old linen. When possible, remove the legs. Always wrap the nuts and bolts in a plastic bag and secure them to a leg.
  • Check your owner's manual for any special moving instructions of appliances and other electronic equipment.
  • In order to keep the tub of your washing machine from moving around during the move, fill it with stuffed toys, blankets, towels, and old linens.
  • Make sure that all loose parts in your refrigerator (including ice containers and drawers) are secure. Any exposed coils should be padded to protect them during the move as well.
  • Bicycle handlebars should be loosened and turned sideways. Don't forget to keep the chains and pedals covered, otherwise grease and oil might rub off on other items.
  • Small mirrors should be carefully wrapped and packed in boxes. Cardboard should be used to cover large paintings, artwork, or wall mirrors. When possible, these items will be kept safe in wardrobe boxes.
  • Because your outdoor furniture may be too bulky or heavy to move in one piece, you may need to disassemble it. If so, be sure to place the nuts and bolts in a plastic bag and attach it to the furniture.
  • Carpets and rugs should be rolled up and carefully secured with tape or rope.
  • Wrapping sharp edges on any tools or attachments will help prevent injury. Power tools should be packed with plenty of cushioning. Be sure to tie or tape your tool chests securely closed.
  • A very important reminder is to carefully dispose of the gasoline and oil from your lawnmower and other machinery, as well as any flammable or poisonous household products. Remember not to pack rags that are soiled with fuel. They should be properly disposed of to avoid spontaneous combustion.

General Moving Tips

Here are some additional general moving tips that will be advantageous to consider during your move.

  • Certain times of the year are busier moving times. It's wise to plan ahead and make sure there is availability on the day you want to move.
  • It is important to book your moving services well ahead to secure your ideal moving date.
  • Remember that time is important on moving day. For instance, if you have a waterbed, it is likely to take around two hours to empty the water! So plan ahead and consider doing certain tasks the night before.
  • When looking for properties, don't forget to measure the space for your refrigerator and other kitchen or laundry appliances.
  • Find out if your homeowner's or renter's insurance policy covers your belongings in transit.
  • It is important to remember that all pools and spas that can hold water must have appropriate barriers to prevent access by young children.
  • It's a good idea to compare measurements of the doorways and hallways in your new home. You may actually need to sell or donate some items.
  • Don't forget to be environmentally friendly! Flatten all your moving boxes for recycling.
  • It is important to arrange finances for quick cash to cover unexpected or emergency moving-related expenses.
  • Make sure that direct debit and billing links to your bank accounts are organized to handle any changes resulting from your move.
  • Be sure to settle all bills that may be overlooked in the move a few days before moving day.
  • Budget wisely for forgotten items you may need once you move into your new home. Did you remember to find out if your home comes with a hose, for instance?
  • A general rule of thumb is if something hasn't been used in over 12 months, seriously consider selling or donating it. Help from a family member or friend will ensure you remain objective.
  • Things that you have a hard time parting with, but which will inevitably be stored in a garage, storage facility, or shed after the move should be packed in stackable containers that are rodent and dust proof.
  • Be prepared to order take-out food or eat out on the first couple of nights in your new home. Chances are you'll feel too tired to cook, but even if you do feel like cooking, most of your kitchen appliances will probably still be packed away.
  • Make sure you use up your frozen foods or dispose of ones you have not used. Never let them thaw and try to refreeze them again. Not only will be there be less to transport, but you will also avoid the risk of food spoilage.
  • You'll be able to browse through some wonderful memories in years to come by making a video or album of your old home. Don't forget to include neighbors and friends!
  • You'll have more time to enjoy settling into your new home if you clean your belongings before they are moved.
  • It is important to make it quite clear to prospective buyers/tenants exactly what is included with the property. Are any appliances included? What about window treatments, rugs, etc.?
  • You should always shut and lock all windows and doors as you leave your old home on moving day.
  • Use colorful tags to indicate each destination if your furniture and household items are being delivered to different locations.
  • A couch can usually be moved into your new home more easily by standing it on end and twisting it through the doorway.
  • A close friend or relative can help out on moving day by acting as a message center for you if you don't have a mobile phone.
  • You will need to consider your current work situation and whether it's important to live close to work before you decide where to live.
  • Your local newspaper can be a great resource for finding out about facilities, services and events in your new neighborhood.
  • Don't despair if you are not totally happy with your new home on the day you move in. Keep in mind that most homes can be adapted over time to suit your lifestyle and tastes.