Moving House Checklist: Eight Weeks to Moving Day
A week-by-week moving checklist covering decluttering, movers, utilities, address changes, packing and moving day, so nothing important gets missed.
Moving goes smoothly when you spread the work over about eight weeks: sort and book early, arrange services in the middle weeks, and leave only packing and final checks for the end. This checklist breaks the job into weekly tasks so nothing important slips.
Eight to six weeks before: plan and declutter
Start by setting a budget and a moving date. Include movers or van hire, packing supplies, cleaning, any overlap in rent or bills, and time off work.
Go through your home room by room. Sell, donate or recycle anything you do not want to move. Every box you do not pack saves time and often money.
- Create a moving folder or note for quotes, contracts and receipts.
- Request written quotes from at least three movers or van hire firms.
- Check your lease or sale contract for key dates and notice periods.
- Measure large furniture and check it will fit through doors at the new home.
- If you have children, contact new schools about places and transfers.
Five to four weeks before: book and notify
Confirm your mover or van booking in writing, including date, arrival time, insurance and what happens if things are damaged. Ask whether they charge extra for stairs, long carries or packing services.
Start the paperwork. Give notice to your landlord if you rent, and arrange final readings or transfers for utilities.
| Service | What to do |
|---|---|
| Electricity, gas, water | Arrange final readings at old home and set up accounts at new home |
| Internet and phone | Book transfer or new installation early, as waits can be long |
| Post | Arrange mail redirection if available where you live |
| Bank and cards | Update your address |
| Employer and payroll | Update records |
| Doctor and dentist | Transfer or register locally |
| Insurance | Update home, contents and vehicle policies for the new address |
| Official records | Check local rules for registering a change of address |
Three to two weeks before: pack steadily
Gather boxes, tape, markers and padding. Pack a few boxes each day, starting with the rooms and items you use least.
Take photos of how electronics are wired before unplugging them, and keep screws and small fittings in labelled bags taped to the furniture they belong to. This makes reassembly much quicker at the other end.
Label each box with the room it goes to and a short list of contents. Mark fragile boxes clearly and keep heavy items in small boxes so they are easy to lift.
- Use up food in the freezer and cupboards.
- Return borrowed items and collect anything lent out.
- Arrange care for pets and young children on moving day.
- Back up important files and photos on your devices.
- Book cleaning for the old home, or plan to do it yourself.
Final week: confirm and prepare
Call your mover or hire firm to confirm the time and addresses. Share access details, parking arrangements and any restrictions at either property.
Pack a first-night box with essentials you will need before unpacking properly: phone chargers, toiletries, medication, a change of clothes, bedding, basic tools, snacks, kettle or cups, and toilet paper.
Keep important documents, valuables, keys and medications with you rather than on the moving truck. Defrost and dry the fridge and freezer at least a day before if you are taking them.
Moving day
Start early and keep your phone charged. Do a final walk-through of the old home, checking cupboards, the loft or attic, sheds and behind doors.
- Take final meter readings and photos of each room.
- Close windows, turn off appliances and lock up.
- Hand over or return keys as agreed.
- At the new home, check meters and take photos of the condition.
- Direct movers so boxes land in the right rooms.
If anything is damaged, note it on the mover's paperwork before they leave and take photos.
Pace yourself during the day. Keep water and simple food within reach, take short breaks, and lift heavy items with help rather than alone. If friends or family are helping, give each person a clear job, such as loading, guarding the old home or directing traffic at the new one. A short plan written on paper stops people waiting around and keeps the day moving.
First weeks in your new home
Unpack essentials first: kitchen, bathroom and beds. Test smoke alarms, locate the main water stopcock and fuse box, and change locks if you are unsure who has keys.
Check that utilities, internet and mail redirection are working, and confirm your address has been updated everywhere. Keep your moving receipts, as some costs may be relevant for tax or employer relocation claims depending on local rules.
The bottom line
An eight-week plan turns a stressful move into a series of manageable tasks. Declutter and book early, handle utilities and address changes a few weeks ahead, pack steadily and keep essentials and documents with you on the day. A little planning upfront saves money, time and frustration later.
Frequently asked questions
How far in advance should I book a moving company?
Booking four to six weeks ahead is sensible, and earlier for busy periods such as month-ends and weekends. Get several written quotes and check what is included before choosing.
What should I pack first?
Start with items you rarely use, such as seasonal clothes, spare bedding, books and decorations. Leave everyday essentials until the last few days.
Who should I notify when I move?
Tell your bank, employer, doctor, insurers, utility providers, schools and any government bodies that hold your address. Check local rules on updating official records such as voter or residence registration.
How can I keep moving costs down?
Declutter before you pack, compare several quotes, move on a weekday if possible and collect free boxes. Doing some packing yourself can also lower a mover's bill.
Disclaimer: This guide is general information only and may not fit your situation or country. Rules, prices and requirements change, so check the details with the official source or a qualified professional before you act. Read our full disclaimer.
