Who to tell you are moving:

The following is an extensive checklist of people to advise of your new address.  Keep your new postal address at hand when you call or write to them.  Bear in mind that most utility companies require some notice before they can connect your gas, electricity, telephone, etc, so make sure you notify them as far ahead in advance as you can.

AA / RAC

Banks

Blood Donor Service

Building Societies

Cable Company

Credit Agreements

Credit / Charge Card

Companies

Dentist

Doctor

DVLA – Driving Licence & Road Tax

Electricity Company

Employer – HR & Salaries Department

Family / Friends

Gas Board

Hire Purchase or Rental Companies

Inland Revenue

Insurance Companies – Life Policies

Insurance Companies – Building & Contents

Insurance Companies – Car

Insurance Companies – Pet

Investments

Local Authority – Council Tax

Mortgage Lender / Endowments

Magazine Subscriptions

Mail Order Services

National Insurance

National Savings & Premium Bonds

Opticians

Passport Office

Pensions

Post Office – redirection of mail

Private Healthcare

Professional Bodies

Schools

Societies / Clubs

Telephone Company

TV Licensing

Vet

Water Authority

Removal & Packing advice

We have seen thousands of people through their moving period. So we know first-hand what advice to offer to help make this part of the move go as smoothly as possible.

Q When should I start planning removal arrangements?

As soon as you have a provisional date for completion, consider how you are going to move. If you are using a removal company, pencil in this date but remember to confirm this booking once your moving date is finally set.

Q Should I use a removal company?

For most people, it’s easier to hire a professional firm.  It saves a huge amount of physical effort and will probably be quicker.  Choose a removal firm that is a member of a professional body such as the British Association of Removers, and which you think is likely to do the best job.

Q How much should I expect to pay for a removal company?

Expect to be charged anything upwards of £300, so shop around for a reasonable quote.

Once you have decided, ask for a written quote (based on a detailed description of the move) and find out how payment is to be made.  You can ask for a full packing and removal service (this is the easiest way of moving house but also the most expensive) or you can ask the removal firm to supply crates and boxes, as well as packing your own things beforehand.  Alternatively, you can source your own packing materials and pack for yourself.

Q What advice would you give if I decide to move my belongings myself?

• You will save money if you opt for doing it yourself, but you will need to be well prepared and ready for an arduous day!
• Make sure you book a van in plenty of time and one that is large enough for all items of furniture.
• Work out how long it will take you and allow plenty of extra time to account for traffic and other unexpected delays so you don’t lose your security deposit by returning a hired vehicle later than arranged.
• Don’t forget to insure your belongings for transit.

Q Are there any golden rules?

• Never underestimate how many belongings you have – there will always be more than you think.
• Don’t leave removal arrangements to the last minute. Always plan well in advance for this.
• Being organized with your packing will make unpacking quicker and easier.
• If anything gets broken or damaged during the move, make a note and ask the removal foreman to sign it. If damaged items are found later, notify your insurers and the removal firm as soon as you can.

Q Is there any general advice that will make the packing process easier?

• Collect or order boxes well in advance of your moving date and check the bases are secure. You can order new and second hand boxes in a huge variety of shapes and sizes from removal firms or online.
• Use plenty of wrapping paper and bubble wrap for breakable items.
• Be kind to your back and don’t over pack your boxes – keep the weight to a level you can manage.
• Clearly label all of your boxes, for example, using different colour stickers for each room of the house.
• Having the right boxes in the right rooms before you start unpacking makes the job a lot easier.
• Keep the kettle, tea, coffee, milk and mugs in a separate box (and at hand!) so you can enjoy refreshments easily throughout the day.
• Keep another box handy with a change of clothes, toiletries, towels, toilet rolls and soap.
• Put important documents & valuables in a safe place and ideally keep them with you when you move.