Whether it’s an exciting fresh start or a necessary change, moving house isn’t always straightforward. For some people it’s a positive new chapter, but for others it can come at a more difficult time, whether that’s financial pressure, a relationship breakdown, or the loss of a loved one.
Whatever the reason, it can be a stressful and emotional process as well as a physical one. The key to making it manageable is good planning, staying realistic, and breaking the process down into clear, simple steps, rather than trying to do everything at once.
Step 1: Be Realistic About Your New Space
Start by thinking realistically about the space you are moving into. Making clear decisions early will make the whole move significantly easier.
What to consider:
– what will fit in the new space and work within the layout
– what could be moved on before the move (sold, donated or disposed of)
– what must move with you on moving day
– what could be placed into storage and reviewed once you are settled
– what decisions can realistically be left until after you have moved in
This helps reduce unnecessary packing and avoids moving items you do not actually need.
Step 2: Get Organised Early
Once your move is confirmed, it’s worth getting key admin and logistics in place early. This helps reduce pressure as moving day approaches and ensures nothing important is left to the last minute.
Key things to arrange:
– arranging removals and access arrangements
– notifying utilities and council tax
– arranging mail redirection
– updating banks, subscriptions and services
– organising broadband transfer or installation
– preparing paperwork for the new owners
Step 3: Decide How the Packing Will Be Done
Before packing begins, decide how the packing will be handled, as this will shape how you approach the rest of the move.
Using a packing service
If you are using a packing service via your removals team, it is best to declutter beforehand where possible.
Packing yourself
Whilst packing yourself may feel like it gives you more control, it does require more time and organisation.
A combined approach
An increasingly popular option is to work alongside a professional who can provide both packing and decluttering support.
Whichever approach you take, labelling is important.
Step 4: The Packing Process
Once packing begins, try to work methodically through each room so everything stays organised.
Packing tips:
– heavier items in smaller boxes
– lighter items in larger boxes
– avoid overfilling to prevent damage
Use strong boxes, packing paper, tape, and a marker pen.
Step 5: Use Self Storage
Self storage can play a key role in making a move more manageable.
How it can help
Many removals companies will deliver items directly into storage.
When it’s useful:
– you can’t properly sort everything before moving
– you know there are items you will not need immediately
– you are downsizing
– there is a gap between moving out and moving in
– you want to avoid overloading your new space
Step 6: Prepare for Moving Day
Prepare a clearly labelled essentials box.
What to include:
– toiletries
– chargers
– snacks and drinks
– basic cleaning items
– tea and coffee supplies
Step 7: Moving Day
Stay organised and in control.
Keep with you:
– valuables
– important documents
– Change of clothes/bedding/towels
Final Check
Walk through the property including loft, garage and cupboards
Take meter readings.
If items are going to different places, make sure one person is clearly directing the move.
Step 8: After You Move
Take a staged approach.
Start with:
– beds and bedding
– bathroom setup
– basic kitchen items
If you’ve used storage, bring items back in stages — it helps avoid clutter and gives you time to decide what you really need.
If you would like support at any stage of your forthcoming house move, contact Andrea at You, Your House & I.
