Moving guide
Moving House Checklist: What to Do Before and After Moving
A UK house move is easiest to organise in six stages: inventory and quotes six to eight weeks out; packing, parking and utilities two to four weeks out; final confirmations the week before; loading, keys and meter readings on moving day; then bills and address updates afterwards. If buying, keep your removal date flexible until completion is confirmed.
Applies to: Practical checklist for UK moves; specific services and rules vary by nation.
Six to eight weeks before
Confirm the likely moving window and list every large item, loft or garage box, access problem and destination floor. Ask removal firms what is included: packing, dismantling, assembly, insurance excess, waiting time and cancellations. If buying, avoid treating an expected completion date as guaranteed until the chain confirms it.
Practical checklist
- Create a room-by-room inventory and photograph fragile or valuable items.
- Compare like-for-like moving quotes, not headline hourly rates alone.
- Measure large furniture, lifts and doorways at both properties.
- Check whether your broadband provider can serve the new address.
Two to four weeks before
Agree access and legal parking for the vehicle at both addresses. Check whether you need to reserve a lift, suspended parking bay or loading area. Begin packing non-essential items and clearly mark boxes by destination room.
Practical checklist
- Arrange van parking or permits with the relevant council or building manager.
- Tell your current landlord or managing agent if notice is required.
- Plan the transfer of broadband: a new provider may handle switching through One Touch Switch, but a house move can require a separate installation or transfer.
- Arrange time off, child care or pet care if helpful.
The week before
Confirm the moving crew, vehicle, arrival window and contact details. Pack an essentials bag you will keep with you: medicines, documents, chargers, keys, water, toiletries and clothing. Back up important digital information and keep passports or house-purchase papers separate from boxes.
Practical checklist
- Identify which furniture must be dismantled and label screws in sealed bags.
- Pack overnight necessities separately.
- Confirm key collection and any lift booking.
- Review the address-update list before moving day.
Moving day
Photograph gas and electricity meter readings at the old and new addresses, where relevant, and give them to the respective suppliers. Keep expensive, sentimental and essential items with you unless their transport has been specifically agreed. Walk through each room before handing back keys.
Practical checklist
- Record dated meter photographs and confirm supplier details.
- Check cupboards, lofts, outdoor stores and sheds.
- Keep property keys and important documents accessible.
- Check large furniture is placed safely and report any visible damage promptly.
The first fortnight afterwards
Update government records and household services. Some updates, including HMRC personal-address changes, should be completed after moving. For drivers, DVLA treats driving licences and vehicle log books as separate records. Re-register for elections at the new address when required.
Practical checklist
- Update council tax records for your old and new local authorities.
- Update DVLA driving licence and V5C where applicable.
- Update bank, insurer, employer, GP, school and subscriptions as relevant.
- Keep receipts and completion or tenancy documents in one folder.
What to read next
Continue with the most relevant next step, or explore the moving journey.
References and further reading
These are the original legal, regulatory and professional sources used to inform this article. MMG explains the key steps above so you do not have to follow external links to find the answer. Circumstances and UK jurisdiction can affect the rules, especially for legal or financial decisions.
- GOV.UK: Tell DVLA you have changed address(opens in a new tab)
- GOV.UK: Tell HMRC when you change address(opens in a new tab)
- Ofcom: Switching broadband provider(opens in a new tab)
My Move Guide publishes general information, not personalised legal, tax, mortgage or financial advice. Estimates and requirements differ by location and circumstances.