Moving home can be an extremely stressful business. As moving day approaches, it’s easy to forget essential things that could cause problems. That’s why we’re offering 10 tips and advice to help make moving day and the first few days in your new home as enjoyable and stress-free as possible!
1. “Tidy House, Tidy Mind”
A new move creates the perfect opportunity to sort through unwanted or unused items. Before attempting to pack, you should decide what to sell, donate, fix, recycle or throw out. Start by focusing on one room, one space, or even one area within a room. It’s important to complete the job fully before moving on to the next space so you feel a sense of achievement every step of the way!
2. Find your Packing Supplies
Once you’ve decluttered your space – and mind – it’s time to find those packing supplies. A great source for free cardboard boxes is your local supermarket. Alternatively, consider purchasing a packing service from a packing and moving company. They should provide you with all the essentials.
3. Pack as Early as Possible
There’s nothing worse than frantically packing boxes the night before your moving date. Just like the decluttering process, pack one room at a time. Not only will this help you stay organised but it will later remind you, or your removal company, which box goes where. Start with rooms and items you least need. It makes sense to pack the items you don’t use on a daily basis like Christmas decorations or garden tools.
4. Remember those Appliances
Not only should you take extra care when packing your appliances but it’s a good idea to make sure the essentials, like the refrigerator, are plugged in when you move into your new property. Returning with your first food shop and discovering you have nothing to keep it fresh isn’t ideal and certainly a stress that can easily be avoided.
5. Get Labelling
Staying organised throughout the packing process is the best way to ensure it’s as stress-free as possible. Simply writing on each box its contents and which room it belongs to will be extremely helpful when you unpack. Remember to write on the sides of the boxes rather than the top so you can easily identify them when they’re stacked.
6. Arrange your utilities
Remember to inform the utility companies of your moving date so that your services can be discontinued. You’ll also need to give them your new address so that they can send you their final bills. Don’t forget that you’ll need to set up your utilities including council tax, gas and home insurance for your new property too.
7. Update your Address
On that note, be sure to provide your new address to companies or organisations before your moving date! Consider diverting any post going to your old address with the Royal Mail for a small fee to be certain you receive all important documents.
8. Register to Vote
Registering to vote at your new address is an easy procedure and can be done through the gov.uk site. Remember that each individual of the household who is eligible to vote needs to register themselves.
9. Pack an Overnight Bag
It’s a good idea to pack a separate bag with the essentials. Items such as medication, toilet roll, toiletries and chargers will be a relief to have on hand when you first arrive at your new home.
10. Don’t Suffer in Silence!
The task of moving is even more overwhelming if dealt with alone. Ask for help from your friends or family to take the pressure off! Alternatively, contact one of the many packing or moving companies available.
