Top Tips for Moving House
If you are thinking about moving home in 2018, you are not alone. Every month in the UK, around 100,000 households up sticks and move. According to research carried out by Bosch, the average Brit will move homes eight times during their lifetime. And, surprisingly, the average distance they will travel to their new home is 32 miles.
Removal experts Brycelands say up to five per cent of the population is likely to move to a different town, city or county in 2018. London and the South East are popular destinations for those on the move, with more people moving in than out of these areas.
Plan your move
Before you start packing, make a checklist of everything you need to do. Once all the legal stuff is complete, you need to be ready to vacate your home and move to your new property. A checklist can ensure nothing is overlooked in what can be a chaotic, stressful time. Things to consider putting on a checklist include:
- Van hire or removal arrangements
- Will you need storage?
- Notify utility companies of your move. Take meter readings on the day of your move
- Ensure you tell TV Licensing
- Make sure you give your new address to your bank, doctor, dentist and, if you are self-employed, the tax man. If you are moving to a new area, you will need to register with a doctor and dentist. If you require medication, ensure you pick up a repeat prescription before your move
- Consider using Royal Mail’s redirection service, so you don’t miss any important post
- Put important documents in one, safe container, such as a box file or plastic tub
- Have all keys to your existing property ready to hand over
- Use a colour coding system when packing, so you know what boxes are destined for individual rooms in your new home
- Will you need childcare on the day or your move?
- Don’t forget your pets!
Reduce the chances of things going wrong
Because moving is one of the most stressful things a human being will endure, it pays to reduce the chances of things going wrong. By paying careful attention to the basics, you can take the hassle out of a move. Gradually reducing clutter in the run-up to a move will make packing much easier. Use the local waste recycling centre, or hire a skip. Don’t be tempted to keep hold of items you no longer use or need.
Another thing to consider is the timing of your move. If you plan ahead, you can avoid peak times for removals and get the full attention of those assisting with your move. By avoiding weekends, particularly during the spring, you will reduce the chances of mix-ups and items going astray.
Packing valuable items
Every care must be taken when packing valuable items. Specialist packing materials may be required for some objects, and a professional removals company will be able to help you choose the best packaging for your needs. Find out if your items will be insured during transit and be careful to tell removal workers which boxes contain fragile or valuable items.
Consider carrying small, fragile items yourself during the move. Remember to protect them with materials that will cushion them from any knocks and scrapes. Making valuable items resistant to impact during a move is important. Finding a family heirloom has broken during transit can put a real damper on what should be an exciting time.
By following this advice, you can make even the most difficult move go smoothly. If you have any advice you’d like to share or you want any help with your property, give Stuart and Neil a call on 01273 830987 or email us.
