Removal check list

2 - 4 weeks before the move

Removals - When the surveyor calls, make sure to highlight any items that are not included in your removal plans. This way you can avoid confusion and ensure a smooth removals process!

Packing - (If you’re handling the packing process yourself) A successful move starts with packing, so give yourself ample time to make it happen! Two weeks in advance is a good rule of thumb - and don't forget to label the boxes. Put heavy items at the bottom for maximum stability, but be mindful not to overfill boxes. 

Car - Before embarking on a lengthy journey, be sure to ensure your vehicle is properly serviced for maximum safety and performance.

Bank - Don't forget to update your bank of the change in address, and explore options for transferring your account to a branch nearer to your new home. Also remember any items that are held securely by the bank on your behalf.

Credit/Store cards - Keep your store and credit card information up to date - don't forget to fill in the change of address section when sending back a statement. Additionally, be sure you inform any associated card protection services about alterations regarding your residence or contact details.

Standing Orders - Make sure any companies with which you have a hire purchase agreement or loan with are updated on your new address.

Schools - To ensure a smooth transition, have your child's current school informed of their leaving date and advise the new school promptly.

Inland Revenue - To ensure your tax affairs are up-to-date, contact your local Inland Revenue office with your reference number.

Premium Bonds - Write to the Bonds and Stock Office quoting your bond number. You can collect the form from the Post Office.

National Insurance - When moving, contact your local DWP office, giving your full name, date of birth, new address and full National Insurance number.

Pension - Update your local DWP Office (Department of Work and Pensions) or private scheme of your change of address.

Insurances - With intricate matters such as insurance, it's important to keep your broker and individual insurers in the loop. So be sure not to forget about motor, home contents, life and other insurances.

Driving Licence - Complete section 1 on your licence and return it to DVLC.

Stocks and Shares - Notify your stock broker or each individual Company Registrar.

Landlord/Tenant - To ensure a smooth transition, landlords and tenants should take the necessary steps to provide proper notice of change in occupancy or new ownership. Taking these precautions will allow all parties involved peace of mind throughout this process.

Doctor /Dentist /Optician - Make sure to de-register and research the healthcare options near your new address. Reach out to any hospitals you're receiving regular treatment from for further guidance.

Post Office - Ensure your mail reaches you on time - give the Post Office at least seven days' notice to redirect it. This service is available only in person at the post office.

TV Licence - Contact TV Licensing in order to transfer your licence to your new address, by calling 0870 242 3349 or visiting www.tvlicensing.co.uk/moving.

TV Rental - Sets can normally be taken to your new address when renting from a large company and your records will be transferred to their nearest branch.

BUPA/Private medical - Advise change of address and /or research new schemes closer to your new home.

Subscriptions - To ensure you don't miss out, now is the time to update your address with all of the organisations/clubs/charities that have a subscription in your name. Taking thirty seconds right now will give peace of mind tomorrow!

Printers - If required, arrange for the printing of change of address cards, with your new postcode.

Hotels - Make sure to book your hotel well ahead of time if you need extra accommodation during the move. This is especially important in the busy summer months.

Carpets/Curtains - If you are ordering these new, confirm the correct delivery dates.

Telecommunication/Mobile Phone Providers - Contact your Telecom provider when changing address. Be sure to give at least 2 weeks' notice when you're ready for the switch. That way, you'll have time to make all necessary arrangements with no interruption in service or delays.

Council tax - To ensure smooth council tax payments, be sure to alert the appropriate authorities in both your current and future locations. Planning ahead will help you stay on top of taxes when moving!

Football pools - Notify on the coupon or inform your collector.

Motor Vehicle Licence - Update the appropriate section of your Vehicle Registration Document with your new address and send it to the Vehicle Licensing Centre, Swansea, SA99 1AB.

Pets - Ensure a smooth transition for your pets during the moving process - book them into kennels or secure trusted friends/relatives to look after them. Don't forget to transfer their records to their new vets.

1 week before the move

Electricity - Contact your existing company and advise your new one of when you are to move
into your new home.

Gas - The gas market is now open to competition and you can choose your supplier. If you want British Gas, contact their Home movers Advice Line on 0645 555 408 as soon as you know your moving date.

Water - At least 48 hours notice is required by both your existing and your new authority

Library - Make sure that you take all the books back that you have on loan.

Items on Loan - Return borrowed items to your friends and neighbours.

Milk/Papers - Settle outstanding accounts and cancel supplies.

Dry Cleaning - Collect all remaining items.

Children - If possible arrange childcare on removal day.

3 days before the move

Ensure you're properly prepared for a smooth move! Pack essential toiletries, clothing and create a 'survival kit' loaded with all the necessities - including: light bulbs, toilet roll, candles, basic tools and a list of important contact numbers. Keep this box in your car boot so it's ready on arrival at your new home.

Do last minute laundry. If you plan to store for an extended period, keep back clothes for the opposite season.

Ensure that the keys for your new home are going to be available and make sure you know where and when you can collect them.

2 days before the move

Empty, defrost and dry out your fridge /freezer if you are planning to store for any period of time. Food stuffs cannot be moved into storage.

If we have quoted to move your freezer with contents (over a short distance), place the contents in polythene bags so that they can be lifted out quickly to facilitate the movement of the freezer.

Make sure any packets, bottles or jars are sealed with tape to prevent spillage.

Pack valuables and documents and put them in a safe place.

Resolve parking problems and check out lift access if you live in flats or moving into a new flat.

1 day before the move

Ensure everyone's well-nourished during the move with provisions like tea and coffee, UHT milk cartons, biscuits, fruits, cheese and pastries. Don't forget essentials such as plates, cups, serviettes, cutlery and a sharp knife - not to mention the trusty kettle!

Plan the evening meal for move day. It may be easier to eat out.

Prepare plants for travel.

Make sure you are fully rested for the day of the move.

Moving day

To ensure a seamless transition, have your young children be looked after by a trusted guardian or settle them in for the evening by creating a personalised space within your home. Older children may want to be given tasks to help such as packing their own personal belongings.

The team leader will introduce himself and his crew to you. Show the team leader around the house.

Keep the kettle boiling and the biscuits flowing so that everyone is refreshed.

Strip the beds. Keep the linen in a box that travels with you so you can pull it out for the first night.

After the van is packed and ready to go, take one last stroll around the home with your team leader. Once you're confident all necessary items are onboard, it's time for departure.

The moving team will make sure your new home is ready to go with all the items placed in their respective rooms and, if quoted, unpacked and unwrapped for you.

Once all items have been placed and positioned correctly, you will be required to sign off on the delivery sheet provided by the team leader. Feel free to leave behind any comments or feedback that might help improve our process.