House moving guide

Pack in plenty of time
Packing at the last minute is stressful and can lead to things being lost or not packed properly. Make sure you get organised as soon as you start thinking about house moving. Alternatively, why not use our packing service and let us take away the stress and panic.

Not labelling boxes
Make sure that you label boxes clearly so the removal company can place them in the right rooms. This will save you a lot of time when you start to unpack. It is also important to add notes such as ‘fragile’ or ‘this way up’ where appropriate.

Heavy items
It is very easy to take a large box and fill it without considering the final weight. If you are packing heavy items, don’t put them all in the same cardboard box as not only will it be difficult to lift, it could easily break. Also, don’t underestimate the weight of things such as books and DVDs because they might seem light individually but it is amazing how heavy they are when you pack them into a box.

Measure up
This is probably one of the most common mistakes – you have a lovely bed/sofa/wardrobe but don’t measure it along with the openings it will need to fit through at your new property. We have seen many cases of people having to remove window frames or even wardrobes being left in the dining room as they wouldn’t fit up the stairs.

Research your removal company
Check recommendations from people that have used the moving company before to reassure you that the moving company will do a good job. Always choose a reputable removal company rather than just going for the cheapest. Trust your instincts when you first meet the removal company for the quote and always make sure the removal company has the appropriate insurance in place to protect you just in case anything goes wrong.

Change your address
Go through your monthly bills etc. and make sure that you have updated all of the relevant people with your new address. Don’t forget your doctor, dentist, optician etc. Also remember to update all of your utilities providers and make sure you take meter readings as you leave the property to avoid any disputes later on.

Don’t lose the kettle!
Always pack a ‘last to load, first to unload’ box. This should contain everything you need for the first night such as kettle, tea bags, milk, cups, ketchup, plates, cutlery, soap bag etc. It is also a good idea to make sure your bed linen, pyjamas and a change of clothes are in a separate bag. This way, if it is late when you finish you can just leave the unpacking until the next day and relax in the knowledge that you have the things you need to get you through the first night.

Washing machine
A small point but an important one! Most washing machines arrive with transit bolts and it is advisable to reattach these when you move it as it helps to keep the drum still and prevent damage. Don’t forget to remove them again at the other end or ask the removal company to do it for you!

Fridge/Freezer
If your fridge or freezer has been transported on its side, make sure you leave it in an upright position for the same amount of time that it was stored on its side before you plug it in.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our moving company for advice.