Work backwards from the earliest possible move date, but keep bookings flexible until the legal or contractual date is secure. Use this master timeline and open specialist guides only where your move needs them.

Four to eight weeks before

• Build an inventory and identify specialist items.
• Compare surveyed removal quotes and terms.
• Declutter with enough time for sale, donation or lawful disposal.
• Check access, parking, lifts and building rules.
• Gather documents and create a change-of-address list.
• Plan children, pets, medicines and accessibility.

Final week

• Confirm addresses, contacts, crew, arrival and payment.
• Label boxes by destination room and priority.
• Separate valuables, documents and items travelling with you.
• Prepare first-night supplies.
• Defrost or disconnect appliances only as manufacturer and mover instruct.
• Photograph valuable-item condition and both properties.

Moving day

• Keep keys, phone, charger, medicines and paperwork with you.
• Walk through the property with the crew and identify exclusions.
• Record meter readings at the relevant handover time.
• Check cupboards, loft, shed and outside areas.
• Complete the agreed key handover.
• At delivery, direct boxes and note visible loss or damage promptly.

After

• Confirm utilities and address updates.
• Unpack safety-critical and essential items first.
• Check the inventory and report issues under the contract.
• Retain quote, inventory, payment and complaint records.

FAQs

What should be done before the van arrives?

Clear routes, reserve access, finish agreed packing, separate no-load items and confirm keys/contact/payment.

When should I record meters and hand over keys?

Follow the property transaction or tenancy instructions. Photograph readings at the point responsibility changes and record key receipt.

Suggested component

Offer a printable Moving Timeline Checklist with movable dates and household-specific modules. The download mirrors this page.

Related guides

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