Moving Day Checklist 2026 | Dom

4 weeks before moving day

[ ] Book a removal company — get three quotes. Prices vary widely; check reviews.
[ ] Confirm your completion date is fixed and coordinate with removals booking
[ ] Arrange mail redirection with Royal Mail (requires 5 working days minimum; earlier is better)
[ ] Start collecting packing materials — boxes, tape, bubble wrap, markers
[ ] Declutter — moving is the best time to get rid of things you don't need
[ ] Begin packing non-essentials — books, art, seasonal items
[ ] Notify your current landlord if renting — check notice period matches completion date

[ ] Notify your employer of your new address (affects P60, tax codes, pension)
[ ] Notify your bank and financial institutions — change address on all accounts
[ ] Notify HMRC — update your address for self-assessment, tax credits, child benefit
[ ] Notify DVLA — update your driving licence and vehicle registration
[ ] Notify your GP and dentist
[ ] Notify the DVSA if you have a medical driving licence
[ ] Notify your children's school if relevant — inform new school too
[ ] Cancel or transfer any local subscriptions (gym, delivery boxes, community groups)
[ ] Sort your current utilities — contact gas, electricity, broadband providers about moving date
[ ] Set up broadband at new property — some providers require 2 weeks lead time

[ ] Finish packing — label every box clearly with room and brief contents
[ ] Set aside essentials box — items you'll need immediately on arrival (kettle, toiletries, change of clothes, phone chargers, important documents)
[ ] Defrost freezer — do this 24–48 hours before to ensure it's fully defrosted
[ ] Dismantle large furniture if needed (wardrobes, bed frames)
[ ] Photograph your current home to document condition for deposit return
[ ] Confirm removal company and timing
[ ] Get enough cash for any tips, last-minute supplies, or parking fees
[ ] Make an extra key for trusted family member or friend for new property

[ ] Confirm keys collection plan with estate agent — what time, where
[ ] Eat down perishables in fridge and freezer
[ ] Charge all devices — phones, tablets, laptops
[ ] Pack overnight bag — everything you need that night regardless of when boxes arrive
[ ] Confirm final completion balance transferred to your solicitor if not already done
[ ] Brief the removal team on any fragile items, heavy pieces, or access issues

[ ] Take meter readings immediately — photograph all meters (gas, electricity, water)
[ ] Check the fittings and contents list against what's in the property
[ ] Check the condition of the property — note any issues for your solicitor
[ ] Locate the fuse box, stopcock, and boiler — know where they are
[ ] Check heating and hot water work
[ ] Check all windows and doors lock properly
[ ] Unload essentials first
[ ] Change the locks — do this on day one
[ ] Check broadband/TV aerial connection

This checklist is a guide. Times and tasks vary by property and personal circumstances.