Moving Checklist London

Moving in London can be a whirlwind! To keep things manageable, a detailed moving checklist is essential. This guide will help you stay organised and stress-free as you transition to your new London home.

8-12 Weeks Before Moving Day

This is the time for the big picture planning:

• Set your moving date: Finalise the date and inform all relevant parties.
• Create a budget: Determine how much you can spend on the move, including removals, packing supplies and potential unforeseen costs.
• Research removal companies: Get quotes from several removal companies in London. Check reviews and ensure they are insured.
• Book your removal service: Once you’ve chosen a company, book them well in advance, especially if moving during peak season. If you’re moving to areas like Hoxton, Highbury, or Harlesden, choosing a local company can be a real asset.
• Notify important parties: Inform your landlord, utility companies, banks and other relevant institutions of your move.
• Start decluttering: Go through your belongings and decide what to keep, donate or sell.

4-8 Weeks Before Moving Day

Time to get into the details:

• Arrange packing supplies: Order boxes, tape, bubble wrap and packing paper.
• Start packing: Begin packing items you don’t use frequently. Label boxes clearly with their contents and the room they belong to.
• Confirm travel arrangements: If you’re moving from outside London, book your train or plane tickets and accommodation.
• Arrange for mail forwarding: Set up mail forwarding with Royal Mail to ensure you don’t miss important correspondence.
• Arrange childcare/pet care: If you have children or pets, make arrangements for their care on moving day.

2 Weeks Before Moving Day

The final countdown:

• Confirm details with removal company: Double-check the moving date, time and any specific instructions with your chosen removal service, whether you’re moving in Earls Court, Elephant and Castle, or elsewhere in London.
• Finish packing: Pack the remaining items, except for essentials you’ll need in the days leading up to the move.
• Disassemble furniture: If you’re disassembling furniture yourself, do it now and keep all the parts together in a labelled bag. Consider professional furniture removals if you’d rather not tackle this yourself, especially for bulky items.
• Clean your old home: Start cleaning your old home so it’s ready for the next occupants.

1 Week Before Moving Day

Almost there!

• Pack an essentials box: Include toiletries, medications, a change of clothes, phone chargers and any other items you’ll need immediately upon arrival at your new home.
• Defrost your fridge/freezer: Allow ample time for defrosting and cleaning.
• Confirm parking: Ensure you have parking permits or arrangements for the removal van at both your old and new addresses. This is crucial in areas like Arnos Grove or Hammersmith where parking can be tight.

Moving Day

The big day is here:

• Supervise the removal team: Be available to answer questions and provide guidance to the removal team.
• Do a final walkthrough: Check every room and cupboard to ensure nothing is left behind.
• Take meter readings: Record gas, electricity and water meter readings at your old property.
• Hand over keys: Leave the keys with the landlord or new owner as agreed.

After the Move

Settling in:

• Unpack essentials: Focus on unpacking the essentials box first so you have access to important items.
• Check inventory: Ensure all items have arrived safely and cross-reference with the inventory list.
• Connect utilities: Contact utility companies to set up services at your new address.
• Update your address: Inform your bank, insurance company and other relevant organisations of your new address.
• Explore your new neighbourhood: Get to know your local shops, restaurants and amenities.

By following this comprehensive moving checklist, your move in London can be a smooth and successful experience.