Moving day checklist: expert tips for a stress-free move

How to prepare for moving day

To prepare for moving day, be as organised as possible and remain focused to ensure everything runs smoothly. As soon as your moving dates are finalised, create a detailed plan of action, breaking each task into manageable chunks. Also, don't hesitate to ask friends and family for help! 

Next, walk from room to room and decide which items you'll need in your new home and what to declutter. For example, if you're moving to a tropical climate, you won't have much use for large woolly coats or Wellington boots! Sell whatever is in good condition on online auction sites like eBay or Facebook Marketplace and donate, recycle or dispose of the rest.  

Pack or dismantle non-essential items, such as antiques and tables, a few weeks before the move, leaving things you use daily until last. Then, contact your movers or shipping company to confirm the timings and arrange any special requirements for large or valuable items. You can also use this opportunity to ask any last-minute questions regarding insurance options, packing advice, tracking, which equipment they'll use, etc.

Inform your electricity, gas, water and internet providers of your move date and set up services at your new address. If you're relocating abroad, keep all essential paperwork, including passports, customs forms and marriage certificates, in one place for easy access.

Moving day checklist

Before the move:

• Confirm the moving date and time with your removals company
• Declutter by selling/donating/wasting unwanted items
• Measure doorways, hallways and staircases in both homes to ensure large furniture fits
• Pack non-essential items first
• Label all boxes with their contents and destination room
• Arrange childcare or pet care, if needed
• Disassemble large furniture for easier transport
• Take photos of valuable items for insurance purposes
• Take final meter readings for gas, electricity and water
• Notify your utility providers 
• Prepare a bag with essentials, such as passports, toiletries, tea, coffee, snacks and a change of clothes
• Clean your old home or schedule a cleaning service
• Defrost your fridge and freezer at least 24 hours before moving
• Withdraw some cash to cover last-minute expenses

During the move:

• Start early and complete any last-minute packing or cleaning
• Double-check all rooms, cupboards and out-of-sight spaces
• Monitor the weather and adjust plans if necessary (for example, covering items if it rains)
• Ensure fragile items are packed extra securely and clearly labelled
• Introduce yourself to the moving crew and discuss any high-priority items
• Politely instruct your removal team to confirm the placement of items in the new home
• Keep expensive/sentimental items with you, such as cash or jewellery 
• Ensure your pets are safe and comfortable
• Stay calm and take breaks when needed
• Lock all windows and doors before leaving your old home

After the move:

• Check that all items have arrived in good condition
• Reassemble furniture and unpack essentials, including your bed, first
• Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors
• Inspect utilities and set up Wi-Fi, gas, electricity and water
• Recycle packing materials responsibly
• Update your new address with banks, your work and other places
• Introduce yourself to neighbours and explore your new area
• Locate the nearest grocery store, pharmacy, and petrol station for immediate needs
• Allow pets and family members time to adjust