Relocating to a new home is one of life’s most significant changes. While it can be exciting, it often comes with stress, especially if you’re not well-prepared. Whether you’re shifting across the street or to another city, having a solid plan in place is crucial. This blog provides a comprehensive, step-by-step checklist for a smooth house removal experience—especially for those planning Removals in the United Kingdom.
With the expert help of Man With a Van In Devon, you’ll be guided through each phase—from early preparation to the final unpacking—with professional care and support.
Smiling couple packing cardboard boxes together sitting on sofa in living room preparing to relocate, young happy woman holding vase helping man to unpack belongings moving in new home concept
Step 1: Start Planning Early (6–8 Weeks in Advance)
Early preparation gives you a head start and minimizes last-minute chaos.
Tasks to do at this stage:
- Set a moving date: Choose a weekday if possible, as weekends may be more expensive and harder to book.
- Inform your landlord (if applicable): Provide official written notice to terminate your lease.
- Create a moving folder: Keep contracts, receipts, insurance papers, and checklists all in one place for easy reference.
- Research and book a removal company: Get quotes from a few companies, compare services, and confirm your booking with Man With a Van In Devon.
- Declutter every room: Go through items methodically and separate them based on usage, value, and emotional attachment.
Decluttering tips:
- Keep: Items you use daily or weekly, or those with essential functions.
- Donate: Clothes, books, or electronics that are still useful but no longer needed.
- Sell: Furniture, appliances, or collectibles in good condition via online marketplaces or local ads.
- Discard: Broken, outdated, or irrelevant items that don’t serve a purpose anymore.
Step 2: Hire a Trusted Removal Company
A reliable removal company can transform your stressful move into a seamless transition.
Consider the following when hiring movers:
- Experience: How long have they been providing removal services in the United Kingdom?
- Service range: Do they offer local, regional, and national moves?
- Licensing and insurance: Ensure they’re insured for damage, loss, or accidents during transport.
- Customer reviews: Check Google, Trustpilot, or social media for honest customer experiences.
- Additional services: Ask if they offer packing, storage, dismantling, or temporary relocation support.
Why choose Man With a Van In Devon:
- Offers affordable, customized packages to suit any move size.
- Known for careful handling and respectful service.
- Specializes in both short-distance and cross-county Removals in the United Kingdom.
Step 3: Sort, Organize, and Start Packing (4–5 Weeks Out)
Organized packing reduces damage, saves time, and ensures an easier unpacking process.
Room-by-room packing strategy:
- Non-essentials first: Pack items you won’t need until after the move (e.g., seasonal décor, guest linens).
- Label clearly: Include contents, room name, and whether it’s fragile.
- Use the right box sizes: Small boxes for heavy items (books, tools), larger ones for lighter things (pillows, clothing).
- Bundle cables and label electronics: Keep wires, chargers, and remotes with their respective devices.
Packing tips:
- Label on all sides: So you can see labels from any angle when boxes are stacked.
- Color-code by room: Use colored tape or stickers for fast identification in your new home.
- Use padding: Bubble wrap, towels, or paper to prevent breakage.
- Keep a master inventory list: Helps track what’s packed and reduces the risk of losing important items.
Step 4: Notify Key Services and Providers (3–4 Weeks Before)
Making these notifications in advance prevents service interruptions and administrative issues.
Inform these key parties:
- Royal Mail: Set up a mail-forwarding service to catch any stragglers.
- Utility companies: Schedule final readings and setup for your new address.
- Banks and financial services: Update your billing and residential address.
- Healthcare providers: Notify your doctor, dentist, optician, and vet.
- Workplace and education: Update your employer, children’s school, and extracurricular organizations.
- Insurance providers: Update home, car, life, and contents insurance with the new address.
Additional notifications:
- TV licensing authority
- Streaming or subscription services
- Online shopping sites (Amazon, etc.)
Step 5: Final Preparations with Your Removal Company (2 Weeks to Go)
This is the time to lock in all remaining details for your moving day.
Confirm with your removal team:
- Arrival time and location: Double-check both pickup and delivery points.
- Access and parking: Ensure a clear path and space for the van near your home.
- Large or fragile items: Alert the team to pianos, safes, aquariums, or artwork.
- Elevator usage: Inform your mover if they’ll need to use elevators or stairs.
- Special instructions: Let the team know if there are pets, elderly residents, or specific room arrangements.
What to arrange on your end:
- Pet care: Arrange for pets to stay with a friend or in a quiet room.
- Child supervision: Arrange for childminders or keep kids engaged safely.
- Key handover: Coordinate with estate agents or landlords regarding timing.
Step 6: Pack Final Essentials and Clean (1 Week Out)
As your move nears, it’s time to finish packing and clean the property.
Essentials to pack separately:
- Toiletries: Toothbrushes, soap, towels, toilet paper.
- Medications: Prescriptions and first aid kit.
- Snacks and drinks: Water bottles, energy bars, tea bags, etc.
- Clothing: A few outfits, pajamas, undergarments.
- Important documents: ID, keys, contracts, financial records.
Final cleaning checklist:
- Kitchen: Clean appliances, cupboards, and surfaces.
- Bathroom: Disinfect toilets, sinks, showers, and mirrors.
- Floors: Vacuum and mop all rooms.
- Windows and doors: Wipe frames, handles, and sills.
- Bins: Empty and disinfect all trash bins.
Tip: Keep a small cleaning kit handy at your new home too.
Step 7: Moving Day Has Arrived!
With everything in place, you can now focus on the actual move.
What to do on the big day:
- Wake up early: Give yourself enough time for any surprises.
- Charge your phone: You’ll need it for communication and navigation.
- Greet the movers: Walk them through your house and let them know your expectations.
- Stay available: Be on hand for questions and coordination.
- Double-check: Cabinets, attics, sheds, and garden areas before locking up.
- Hand over keys: If needed, pass keys to the landlord, buyer, or estate agent.
Step 8: Unpack and Settle Into Your New Home
After arrival, it’s time to get comfortable and restore your routine.
Unpacking priorities:
- Beds and bathrooms: Set up beds and unpack hygiene essentials first.
- Kitchen setup: Unpack cookware, utensils, plates, and basic pantry items.
- Children and pets: Arrange familiar items (toys, blankets) to help them adjust quickly.
- Utilities check: Ensure electricity, heating, water, and Wi-Fi are all functioning properly.
Post-move tasks:
- Inspect for damage: Check items and report anything broken.
- Recycle boxes: Flatten and reuse or dispose of cardboard responsibly.
- Explore your neighborhood: Visit local shops, parks, or neighbors.
- Change locks (if needed): For safety and peace of mind.
Why Choose Man With a Van In Devon?
When it comes to Removals in the United Kingdom, Man With a Van In Devon is a name you can trust.
What makes us different:
- ✅ Experienced movers who handle everything with care
- ✅ Budget-friendly rates with no hidden fees
- ✅ Flexible services for homes, flats, and offices
- ✅ Packing help and supplies available upon request
- ✅ On-time arrival and professional coordination
- ✅ Free quotes and friendly customer support
We’re not just about moving boxes—we’re about making your move simple and stress-free.
Conclusion
A well-organized move isn’t just a dream—it’s absolutely possible. With careful planning, smart packing, and the right team, your house removal can be efficient and even enjoyable. By following this extended checklist, you’ll reduce stress and stay in control from day one to moving day.
For trusted, affordable, and professional Removals in the United Kingdom, reach out to Man With a Van In Devon today. Whether you’re relocating locally or across counties, our experienced team is ready to support you every step of the way.
📞 Contact us now or 📧 email us at [admin@devonmanwithvan.co.uk] for a free quote.