Moving to a new home can be everything from exciting to stressful – as can the process involved. From packing up your belongings to settling into a new neighbourhood or city, there are many aspects to consider.
We’ve been moving households since 1978 and we’ve learnt a few things along the way. So to help make your move smoother and more enjoyable, we thought we’d share a few of our top Do’s and Don’ts when moving home.
The Do’s:
- Plan Ahead:
If you plan your move well in advance, you have more of a chance of everything going smoothly. Create a timeline and checklist to ensure that you cover all the necessary tasks, from notifying utility providers to booking a moving company and packing.
- Declutter Before Packing:
Moving house is a great opportunity to declutter your belongings. Donate, sell or recycle items you no longer need. By reducing the amount you have to pack, you save time and money and ensure a fresh start in your new home.
- Label Your Boxes:
Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. This helps your removal company locate the room the box is to go into, makes your unpacking process more organized and helps you locate your belongings easily.
- Pack an Essentials Box:
Pack a bag with daily necessities such as toiletries, a change of clothes, chargers and important documents. This will save you from rummaging through numerous boxes on your first day in your new home.
- Hire a Professional Removals Company:
If your budget allows, consider hiring professional movers such as ourselves. We have the expertise, tools and materials to handle bulky and fragile items. We can dismantle furniture and put it back together and will make the entire moving process painless and more efficient.
- Inform Relevant Parties about your Move:
Notify your utility providers, mail, and any relevant institutions about your change of address. This ensures a seamless transition and prevents any disruptions in services.
- Protect Valuables:
Safeguard important documents, jewellery, and valuables by keeping them with you during the move. This minimizes the risk of loss or damage.
- Get to Know Your New Neighbours:
Introduce yourself to your new neighbours. Building a positive relationship from the start can make settling into your new community much more enjoyable – you may need them to keep an eye on your house, put out your bins, or water your plants if you are away.
The Don’ts:
- Procrastinate:
Avoid leaving everything until the last minute. Procrastination can lead to unnecessary stress and oversights. However, life gets in the way from time to time, so if you need us to pack up your belongings for you, we can.
- Overpack Boxes:
While it might be tempting to fill boxes to the brim, it’s essential to avoid overpacking. This not only makes the boxes heavier but also increases the risk of breakages. Be particularly mindful of books and chinaware – these add weight quickly.
- Forget to Update Addresses:
Ensure that you update your address with all relevant parties, including banks, subscriptions, and government offices. Forgetting this step can result in missed mail and important notifications. This is especially important if your new home is a significant distance from your old one – you cannot reply on the new household to send any post.
- Ignore Safety Measures:
When lifting heavy items, always use proper lifting techniques to avoid injury. Ensure pathways and halls are clear from clutter so you don’t trip over anything. Additionally, make sure to secure furniture and appliances in your moving truck to prevent damage during transit.
- Go for the Cheapest Removals Company
Not all removals companies are created equal. We would advise you to shop around, don’t choose on price alone and, check they have insurance policies to protect your belongings. Always ask family and friends for recommendations and read their reviews.
- Leave Cleaning for the Last Minute:
Often the focus is on the move and many people forget to plan in time for cleaning their old home after moving out. This ensures you leave the property in good condition and helps with any potential security deposit refunds if you are renting.
- Assume Everything Will Go Smoothly:
Be prepared for unexpected challenges. Whether it’s a delay in the moving process or unforeseen issues at your new home, having a flexible mindset will make the experience less stressful.
- Disregard Pet and Child Safety:
If you have pets or young children, make arrangements for their safety during the move. Consider asking a friend or family member to help with their care on moving day.
- Forget to Inspect Your New Home:
Before moving in, inspect your new home for any damages or issues that need attention. If it’s winter, check all the heating works. This way, you can address any issues early on and have a smooth transition into your new space.
Moving house can be a stressful process, but with careful planning and attention to detail, you can minimise stress and enjoy the excitement of a fresh start. By following these do’s and don’ts, you’ll be well-prepared for a successful and smooth transition to your new home.
We’ve been moving households since 1978, are competitively priced and are well recommended – we offer a number of services including packing, moving and house and waste clearance. Get in touch to discuss your needs and how we can help.
