The Complete Guide to Moving House: Packing, Planning & Choosing Movers

Introduction

Moving house is one of life’s biggest challenges and, with the right plan, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By breaking the job into clear steps — planning, choosing movers, packing, moving day, and settling in — you can reduce stress and start your new chapter with confidence. This guide combines practical checklists, pro tips, and safety reminders to help you move smarter in the UK.

What’s in this article

Quick Questions & Answers

Q: Should I hire a moving company?
A: Yes, especially for larger moves. This is because professionals bring the right kit, trained staff, and insurance, which saves you time, stress and physical strain.

Q: What’s the first step in moving house?
A: Create a timeline at least 6‐8 weeks before. Include points for: declutter; research movers; measure access points; collect packing supplies.

Q: How can I cut moving costs?
A: Declutter early (this means less to transport), compare multiple quotes, avoid peak times like Fridays and summer holidays, and reuse packing supplies where possible.

Q: Is storage worth it?
A: Yes, storage adds flexibility, especially if there’s a timing gap or renovation delay. It also helps declutter before selling.

Q: Any safety musts?
A: Always use gloves and sturdy footwear when lifting or shifting heavy items, and follow safe manual handling practices (see HSE guidance). Never overload boxes — aim for a max of 18‐22kg (40‐50 lbs).

Step 1: Planning & Preparation

Good preparation sets the tone for the whole move. The earlier you start, the smoother it will feel.

Make a Timeline

To begin, break the process down into manageable chunks:

• 6‐8 weeks before: start decluttering, research movers, collect packing supplies.
• 3‐4 weeks before: confirm dates, finalise admin, arrange childcare/pet care.
• 1‐2 weeks before: pack non-essentials, check insurance, book cleaners/builders if needed.
• Moving week: prepare an “open-first” essentials kit (including picnicware or disposable cups/plates if your kitchenware is packed).

Think of it like revising for an exam — a little every week is much easier than cramming at the last minute.

Declutter Before You Pack

Sort items into keep/donate/recycle piles. Consider a storage unit to stage bulky or seasonal items. A lighter load means fewer van trips and lower costs.

Budget & Cost Savings

Compare multiple quotes from movers, avoid peak times, and reduce costs by decluttering early. Hidden costs to budget for include parking permits, childcare, cleaning, takeaway meals, and van fuel.

Eco-Friendly Moves

Reuse existing boxes, consider biodegradable wraps or paper, and seek eco-conscious movers with reusable crates or hybrid vehicles.

Measure Access

Check doorways, staircases, and parking access at both ends. For example, a sofa that fit into your current house may not fit easily through the new hallway. Measure twice to save stress on the day.

Step 2: Documentation & Admin

Paperwork isn’t glamorous, but it can prevent some of the biggest moving headaches if tackled early.

Build a Moving Checklist

Include utilities, insurance, contracts, and mail redirection. You’ll find that crossing off items provides structure and reassurance.

Organise a Document Folder

Keep both physical and digital copies of:

• Sale/purchase or rental agreements
• Utility accounts (old & new)
• Insurance paperwork
• Key contacts (solicitor, agent, landlord, movers)

Tip: Use cloud storage or a shared app to access documents easily on moving day.

Notify Key Services

Update banks, GP/dentist, HMRC, DVLA, TV Licensing, electoral roll, subscriptions, and broadband providers early to avoid disruption.

Insurance Checks

Ensure your home contents insurance covers both properties on moving day to avoid gaps. If buying, remember most lenders require buildings insurance to start from the date of exchange of contracts.

Storage Considerations

Keep contracts and access codes safe. Don’t forget to ensure removals insurance also covers stored items (or have separate storage insurance set up).

Step 3: Finding & Choosing Movers

Choosing the right moving partner can make or break your experience. Don’t just go on price — reliability is worth paying for.

DIY vs Professionals

DIY may seem cheaper but includes van hire, fuel, supplies, and strain. Professionals bring insurance, training, and equipment.

Finding a Reliable Firm

Ask for recommendations, read reviews, check BAR or Move Assured membership, research Companies House listings, and assess professionalism.

Questions to Ask Movers

Ask about pre-move surveys, what’s included, insurance cover, cancellation terms, storage options, and their complaints procedure. A good mover will answer clearly and confidently.

Cost & Availability

Book early, avoid peak times, and balance cost with reputation and service quality.

Children & Pets

Discuss logistics with movers so you understand their plans and then arrange childcare and create a safe space for pets.

Step 4: Packing Like a Pro

Realistically, packing always takes longer than expected, so give yourself more time than you think you’ll need.

Start Early

Gather boxes, tape, labels, and wraps early. Pack non-essentials first to ease the final week.

Choose the Right Materials

Invest in sturdy supplies:

• Black marker pen(s)
• Tape gun with multiple rolls of tape
• Tissue paper, bubble wrap, or eco alternatives (biodegradable wrap, recycled paper, towels)
• Double-walled small boxes for books
• Wardrobe boxes for clothes
• Suitcases for shoes/accessories
• Vacuum packs for bedding/coats
• Towels/blankets as wrap
• Avoid bin bags (except for rubbish) ‐ full bags can easily end up in the bin!

Create an Inventory List

Number boxes, list contents, and take photos of valuables. Keep a copy handy on moving day. It’s not just admin — it’s peace of mind.

Smart Packing Tips

Put heavy items on the bottom and lighter ones on top. Fill gaps and wrap fragile items individually. Avoid overloading, because if you can’t lift it comfortably then it’s too heavy.

What Not to Pack

Movers won’t take hazardous items such as paints, aerosols, propane tanks, fireworks, or chemicals. Dispose of these safely in advance.

Choosing the Right Moving Tool

Different tools suit different jobs. Skates work well on smooth floors, dollies handle stacked boxes, blankets prevent scratches, and ramps make loading easier.

Using Dollies & Skates Safely

Plan your route before lifting. Clear clutter, protect corners, and strap loads securely. Move slowly, especially on slopes or uneven ground.

Bulky Item Strategy

For large items like sofas, remove detachable parts and use the “hook” angle to fit through doors. A dolly can save your back and your patience.

The Essentials Kit

Pack an “open-first” box with tea, mugs, snacks, picnicware, chargers, toiletries, toilet roll, and cleaning wipes. It’s amazing how much calmer the first evening feels when you can make a cuppa.

Packing for Storage

Label boxes clearly, keep rarely used items at the back of the unit, and essentials at the front. Future-you will thank present-you.

Step 5: Moving Day Essentials

At this point, this is the day when all your planning comes together. Small touches can make a stressful day much easier.

Keep Key Items with You

Keep passports, IDs, cash, medications, and chargers on you — never in the van. Losing track of them can derail the day.

Protect Your Property

Lay rugs, protectors, or guards to avoid damage. Tell movers where fragile flooring or paintwork needs extra care.

Coordinate the Day

Stay available to answer questions. Arrange time off work and allow buffer days for delays. If friends are helping, assign roles — one at the old house, one at the new, one with kids or pets.

Final Checks Before Leaving

Walk through each room. Also, check the loft and shed. Take meter readings (photos on your phone are quick and less likely to be misplaced), clean surfaces, empty bins, and leave a handover file with appliance manuals and meter cupboard keys. (Remember to keep a meter cupboard key for your new home). A quick sweep leaves a good impression.

Comfort Matters

Pack tea, coffee, biscuits, soap, toilet roll, and picnicware. A first-night kit means you don’t have to rummage through boxes when you’re exhausted.

Pets & Children

Keep them safe, away from heavy lifting. If possible, book daycare or ask a trusted friend for help.

Use Storage as a Buffer

If keys are delayed or renovations needed, storage can take the pressure off.

Managing Stress on the Day

Moving is stressful. Pace yourself, take breaks, and celebrate milestones — like when the first room is set up. It helps everyone feel settled sooner.

Unloading & Checking

Direct movers to rooms, check off your inventory, and inspect items before signing off. Tighten straps if loads have shifted.

Step 6: After the Move

The van may have gone, but the move isn’t over yet. What you do in the first 48 hours sets the tone for your new start.

Reconnect & Rebuild

Plug in essentials, reassemble beds, and test broadband, heating, and water before unpacking fully. Why? More time to arrange support with those services rather than finding they’ve clocked off for the day.

Utilities & Admin

Take meter readings at both homes and photograph them for proof. Update insurance and check you have keys for meter cupboards, stopcocks, and (if needed) fuse boxes.

Settle the Family

Introduce pets to one quiet room first. Give kids their favourite toys or bedding to help them adjust.

Recycle & Reset

Flatten and donate boxes, list spares on Freecycle, or book a collection. Don’t rush — focus on bedrooms, kitchen, and bathroom first.

Settling into Your New Community

Register with the council for tax and bins, sign up with a GP and dentist, and check recycling schedules. Update delivery & shopping apps (Amazon, Ocado, JustEat, Uber etc) with your new address so services can find you easily.

Frequently Asked Questions

And finally, here are answers to some common questions.

Q: What should I pack first when moving house?
A: Start with non-essentials like books, seasonal clothes, and ornaments. This reduces stress closer to moving day.

Q: How many boxes do I need for a 3-bedroom house?
A: On average, 60‐80 boxes depending on how much you own. Professional movers estimate that decluttering first can cut this number by 20‐30%.

Q: When should I book a removal company?
A: Ideally 8 weeks before, but at least 4‐6 weeks ahead in busy seasons. Some movers open diaries 3 months in advance for summer and Christmas moves.

Q: Should I use a storage unit?
A: Yes, if you’re downsizing, renovating, or face a timing gap. Storage keeps items secure and allows staged moving. Many facilities offer discounts for bookings of 3 months or more.

Q: What questions should I ask movers?
A: Ask about insurance cover, hidden fees, cancellation terms, storage flexibility, and complaints procedure. A pre-move survey is a good sign of professionalism.

Q: Are there items movers won’t take?
A: Yes, most won’t carry hazardous items such as paint, propane, aerosols, or chemicals. Arrange safe disposal before moving day.

Q: How do I move bulky items like sofas through doors?
A: Measure both the item and doorway, remove detachable parts, and use the “hook” angle method. When possible, place on a dolly or skate to reduce strain.

Pro Tip: Always confirm insurance exclusions (e.g. hazardous items, perishables).

Useful Equipment

If you’re handling part of the move yourself, make it safer and easier with the right equipment. BIL Group offers a wide range of dollies and trolleys designed to move heavy furniture with less effort.

Further Reading

How to Move Heavy Furniture Safely
Top 5 Rules for Safe Manual Handling

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information only and does not replace professional moving advice or health and safety training. Always follow official guidance such as the UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE) manual handling advice. BIL Group is not liable for any loss, damage, or injury resulting from reliance on this content.