Complete Moving House Checklist 2026

Your ultimate timeline and checklist for a stress-free house move in the Midlands. Print this out and tick off each task!

8 Weeks Before Moving Day

• Start decluttering - sell, donate, or dispose of unwanted items
• Get quotes from removal companies (get yours here)
• Start planning room layouts for your new home
• Book time off work for moving day
• If you have children, research new schools

6 Weeks Before Moving Day

• Book your man and van removal service
• Notify your landlord (if renting)
• Start collecting packing materials (boxes, bubble wrap, tape)
• Begin packing items you don't use regularly
• Take photos of how electronics are connected

4 Weeks Before Moving Day

• Notify utility companies (gas, electric, water, internet)
• Update your address with:
  • ✓ DVLA (driving license and vehicle registration)
  • ✓ Electoral roll
  • ✓ TV Licensing
  • ✓ Council tax office
  • ✓ Banks and credit card companies
  • ✓ Insurance companies (home, car, health)
  • ✓ Pension providers
  • ✓ HMRC
• Arrange mail redirection with Royal Mail
• Register with new GP and dentist
• Measure doorways and stairs at new property

2 Weeks Before Moving Day

• Confirm booking with removal company
• Check parking permits needed at either property
• Start packing in earnest - one room at a time
• Label all boxes with contents and destination room
• Start using up frozen food
• Arrange childcare and pet care for moving day
• Book cleaning services for old property if needed

1 Week Before Moving Day

• Pack "essentials box" with:
  • ✓ Kettle, tea/coffee, mugs, milk
  • ✓ Toilet paper and cleaning supplies
  • ✓ Phone chargers
  • ✓ Basic tools (screwdriver, hammer)
  • ✓ First aid kit
  • ✓ Snacks and water
• Defrost and clean freezer
• Dismantle furniture that needs dismantling
• Use up perishables
• Pack a "first night" bag with bedding, toiletries, clothes
• Confirm keys will be available at both properties

Moving Day - Morning

• Strip beds and pack final items
• Empty and defrost fridge
• Do final meter readings (photo evidence is good)
• Check all cupboards, wardrobes, and under beds
• Keep important documents with you (not in the van)
• Greet removal team and show them around

Moving Day - At New Property

• Take meter readings
• Check all utilities are working
• Direct removal team where furniture goes
• Check all items have arrived
• Test locks and secure property
• Make beds first - you'll thank yourself later!

First Week After Moving

• Unpack essentials first (kitchen, bathroom, bedroom)
• Register with local council for council tax
• Update Amazon, eBay, and online shopping accounts
• Update subscriptions (Netflix, magazines, gym, etc.)
• Introduce yourself to neighbors
• Locate emergency services (hospital, police station)
• Find nearest shops, post office, etc.

First Month After Moving

• Finish unpacking all boxes
• Update work/school with new address
• Update all remaining subscriptions and memberships
• Recycle or dispose of packing materials
• Check deposit return from old property (if renting)
• Celebrate - you've moved! 🎉

Top Tips for a Smooth Move

Need Help with Your Move?

Man & Van Midlands can take the stress out of moving day. We handle everything from loading to unloading, so you can focus on settling into your new home.