Expert tips for every stage of your move: planning, packing, and settling in. Learn how to manage the logistics and emotions for a positive moving experience.
Moving House Guide: Planning, Packing, and Settling In
Moving home can be challenging. While a new home marks an exciting new chapter, it naturally comes with a range of tasks that can feel overwhelming.
Effective planning can ease many of these challenges. Whether relocating for work, moving in with a partner, upsizing for a growing family, or simply seeking a change of scenery, a well-planned approach helps turn the process into a manageable and positive experience. This guide covers key steps from initial planning to settling into your new home.
Planning Your Move: Start Early
Even if your moving date is not fixed, beginning preparations 2 to 3 months ahead helps keep everything on track.
A suggested moving timeline might include:
- 8 weeks before: Start planning transport and any help you may need. Begin packing items you don’t use daily.
- 6 weeks before: Begin decluttering and prepare a list of people and organisations to notify. Consider arranging mail redirection early to avoid missing post.
- 4 weeks before: Pack more non-essential belongings and start working through admin tasks such as utilities and address updates. Cancel any regular deliveries you no longer require.
- 2 weeks before: Confirm moving day arrangements and pack items you use less often.
- In the final days: Pack your essentials, take energy and water meter readings, and prepare a “first-day” box with must-have items. Use a moving day checklist to ensure all details are completed.
Tip: Setting calendar reminders for these milestones can help you keep to schedule.
Decluttering Before You Move
Reducing your belongings before packing saves time and effort during the move and while settling in.
Consider these questions when deciding what to keep:
- Have I used this item in the past year?
- Will it be useful in my new home?
- Does it have meaningful sentimental value?
For items you no longer need, options include donating to local charities or recycling at appropriate facilities.
Packing Tips for a Smooth Move
Starting to pack early and spreading the task over weeks helps avoid last-minute stress.
Begin with less frequently used items, such as seasonal decorations, and keep daily essentials until the final packing days.
Some room-specific tips include:
- Kitchen: Wrap fragile items in towels. Prepare a “first-night” box with essential cookware, dishes, snacks, and a kettle.
- Bedroom: Transport clothes on hangers in wardrobe boxes or suitable bags. Use vacuum storage for bulky bedding and off-season clothes.
- Living Spaces: Photograph the setup of electronics and bundle cables clearly labelled. Keep small parts in labelled bags.
Using a mix of sturdy second-hand boxes and new boxes for fragile items is practical. Label boxes clearly and keep an essentials box for immediately needed items.
Choosing How to Move Your Belongings
Think about the size of your move, access at both addresses, and whether you’ll need help with heavy items. Planning the transport early helps reduce last-minute pressure.
For smaller moves (such as a room or studio), you may prefer a simpler approach — but still plan carefully to avoid multiple trips, delays, or rushed packing. Always use safe lifting techniques and protect large items properly.
Whatever option you choose, thorough planning improves the experience and helps keep stress manageable.
Managing the Emotional Side of Moving
Moving isn’t just logistical — it’s an emotional transition. Leaving familiar places can bring feelings of loss alongside excitement.
To support yourself emotionally during this time:
- Keep regular routines as much as possible during the move.
- Ensure friends and family know how to contact you at your new address.
- Focus on the new possibilities your home offers.
- Set up comforting spaces early, such as a relaxing spot to unwind.
Settling Into Your New Home
Once you’ve moved in, start by preparing your bathroom, kitchen, and bedroom to create immediate comfort.
- Engage in local activities to help build new connections.
- Add houseplants to freshen the air and make the space feel welcoming.
Take your time with unpacking non-essential items, and allow yourself to adjust gradually. A simple checklist can help you prioritise the first few days.
Final Thoughts
Moving house marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter. Planning carefully and being mindful of both practical and emotional aspects helps make the transition smoother.
Remember to stay flexible, seek support when needed, and look forward to making your new house into a home full of new memories.
When you’re ready to arrange transport for your move, you can find and book man and van services based on your timing, access, and the size of your move.
