Plan ahead, declutter, and seek help to reduce stress when moving house - from family discussions to hiring removal experts.
Moving house is often described as a significant life change involving many tasks and preparations. Shifting all of your belongings from one place to another requires careful organisation.
Initially, you must find a new home and complete important paperwork, including securing any necessary financial arrangements. Then comes the practical challenge of the moving day itself, which involves packing up your possessions, notifying service providers of your change of address, and coordinating logistics.
For those with families, the process can feel even more complex. Planning thoroughly helps ensure the transition goes smoothly and efficiently.
Advance preparation is key. Aim to start well ahead of your move date, tackling small tasks regularly and keeping a checklist to track your progress.
So, what are the essential steps to take before moving house?
Talk With Your Family and Friends
Gather advice from those who have experience with moving. They may also be able to support you during the preparations or on the moving day itself.
If you have children, discuss the move with them in advance to help them understand and feel comfortable with the upcoming changes, especially if it involves changing schools or leaving familiar surroundings.
Care for Your Pets
Pets can find moving unsettling. To keep them calm, consider arranging a comfortable space or temporary care during the busiest moments of your move.
Reduce Your Belongings
Sorting through your possessions can ease the moving process. Consider donating or passing on items you no longer need to lighten your load.
Fewer items mean less to pack and transport, making your move more manageable.
Once you've secured your new home...
Complete Required Arrangements Without Delay
Pay deposits and finalise financial matters promptly to secure your new property. Allow sufficient time for any necessary paperwork and checks ahead of the moving day.
Engage with professionals such as estate agents, conveyancers, or surveyors early on to assist with the process.
Set up your council tax and other administrative matters to avoid complications later.
Schedule Time Off Work
Plan to take leave on your moving day and possibly surrounding days. This ensures you have the time needed to manage the transition without added pressure.
Notify Utilities and Providers
Contact utility companies and service providers once you have your moving date. This helps to arrange timely transfers for services like gas, electricity, internet, and television.
Consider Hiring Professional Movers
For the moving itself, you might weigh up whether to manage the transport alone or to employ a professional moving firm. Professionals can provide suitable vehicles, insurance coverage, and assistance with heavy lifting and packing.
If hiring movers, check that they have availability for your date and discuss any extra services you may need, such as packing assistance or handling delicate items.
Preparing well in advance generally helps make the experience of moving house more manageable and less overwhelming.
