Our moving house checklist sets out the whole timeline. This list is the short version: twenty things to do before moving house that are easy to forget until the week itself.

Booking the move

  1. Get removal quotes early. Six to eight weeks out gives you the best choice of companies. Compare up to 6 removal quotes in one go.
  2. Book a survey. An in-home or video survey makes your quote accurate.
  3. Check the cancellation terms before you pay a deposit, especially if you're in a chain.
  4. Measure big furniture against the doors, stairs and rooms of your new home.
  5. Arrange parking at both ends. Councils need notice for bay suspensions.

Around the house

  1. Declutter before the survey, not after. Less stuff means a lower quote.
  2. Use up frozen food and plan meals around what's left in the cupboards.
  3. Find the manuals and spare keys to leave for the next occupants.
  4. Book a disconnection for your washing machine or cooker if they're coming with you.
  5. Clean as you pack. If you're renting, it helps you get your deposit back.

Admin and accounts

  1. Set up post redirection with Royal Mail.
  2. Tell your energy, water and broadband providers your moving date.
  3. Book a broadband installation at the new address. Lead times can be weeks.
  4. Update your address with your bank, employer, GP, insurers and DVLA. See who to tell when you move.
  5. Cancel or move local services: window cleaner, milk delivery, gym, gardener.
  6. Check your home insurance covers the move and starts at the new home from completion day.

The last few days

  1. Pack an essentials box with the kettle, chargers, toiletries, tools and bedding.
  2. Keep documents and valuables with you, never on the van.
  3. Defrost the freezer the day before if it's being moved.
  4. Confirm arrival time and access details with your removal company.

Next: what to do on the day itself, in our guide to things to do on moving day.