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Moving house involves far more than packing boxes. There are dates to coordinate, services to arrange, people to notify and dozens of small but important tasks that are easy to overlook.
This moving house checklist is designed to help you plan your move from start to finish. It breaks the process into clear stages, explains what needs to happen at each point, and highlights common issues that can delay or complicate a move.
Last updated: Feb 2026
How to use this moving house checklist
This checklist is organised by time and stage, rather than as one long list of tasks. Not every move follows the same timeline, but working through these stages in order will help you stay organised and reduce last-minute pressure.
Each section includes practical tasks, reminders and things to consider before moving on to the next stage.
Prefer a printable version? You can download our moving house checklist to print or save and tick off tasks as you go.
As soon as your move is likely (around 8–12 weeks before)
This is the early planning stage. Even if dates are not confirmed, there are several actions worth taking now.
What to do
- Create a folder for moving documents, emails and quotes
- Set a provisional moving date or date range
- Research removal companies or van hire options
- Begin decluttering cupboards, lofts, garages and spare rooms
- Check access at both properties, including parking, stairs and lifts
If you are sorting through items early on, you may find it helpful to read our guide to decluttering before a house move.
Things to consider
- Whether your move-out and move-in dates will align
- Whether you may need temporary space for furniture or boxes
- Whether any items require specialist handling
If your move dates are uncertain, you may find it helpful to read about how temporary space can help during a house move .
6–8 weeks before moving
At this point, plans usually become more defined and packing can begin.
Book key services
- Confirm your removals company or van hire
- Arrange time off work for moving day
- Book cleaners if required
Start packing non-essential items
- Seasonal clothing and shoes
- Books, ornaments and décor
- Items from storage areas and spare rooms
Packing tips
- Label boxes clearly by room and contents
- Use smaller boxes for heavy items
- Keep a simple inventory of valuable belongings
You may also want to look at our range of packing materials and boxes when you begin packing.
4 weeks before moving
This stage focuses on administration, utilities and building packing momentum.
Change of address preparation
- Banks and credit card providers
- Insurance companies
- Employer and pension providers
- Schools, nurseries and childcare providers
- Subscription services and regular deliveries
Utilities and services
- Notify gas, electricity and water providers
- Arrange final meter readings
- Book broadband installation at your new property
- Set up mail redirection if required
Continue packing
- Most rooms should now be partially packed
- Clearly separate items you will still need before moving day
2 weeks before moving
With moving day approaching, focus on confirmation and essentials.
Final checks
- Confirm timings and access with your removals company
- Confirm key collection arrangements
- Arrange childcare or pet care for moving day
Prepare a moving day essentials box
- Important documents
- Phone chargers
- Medication and toiletries
- Kettle, mugs and tea or coffee
- Basic cleaning supplies
1 week before moving
Finish packing
- Pack remaining non-essential items
- Dismantle furniture if required
- Clearly label boxes that need careful handling
Prepare your old home
- Defrost the freezer
- Dispose of unwanted items responsibly
- Set aside keys, manuals and spare parts to leave behind
Moving day checklist
Before leaving your old home
- Take final meter readings
- Check cupboards, sheds and loft spaces
- Lock windows and doors
- Leave keys as agreed
At your new home
- Direct movers clearly by room
- Check utilities are working
- Unpack essentials first
After you have moved in
In the first few days
- Unpack bedrooms, bathrooms and the kitchen first
- Check belongings for any damage
- Update your address where needed
In the following weeks
- Register with a GP and dentist
- Update the electoral roll
- Review insurance policies
- Finish unpacking and organise your space
Change of address checklist
Notifying the right organisations helps prevent missed bills, service interruptions and admin issues after you move.
Financial and legal
- Banks and building societies
- Credit card providers
- Loan providers and finance agreements
- Mortgage provider
- Insurance providers (home, contents, car, life)
- Solicitor or conveyancer
Government and council
- Local council (council tax)
- DVLA (driving licence and vehicle log book)
- HMRC
- Electoral register
- TV Licensing
Utilities and home services
- Gas supplier
- Electricity supplier
- Water supplier
- Broadband and internet provider
- Landline provider
- Mobile phone provider
Work, education and childcare
- Employer and payroll
- Pension provider
- Schools, colleges or universities
- Nurseries and childcare providers
Healthcare
- GP surgery
- Dentist
- Optician
- Vet (if you have pets)
Deliveries, subscriptions and memberships
- Online shopping accounts
- Streaming services
- Newspaper and magazine subscriptions
- Gyms, clubs and memberships
- Loyalty schemes
Frequently asked questions about moving house
When should I start preparing for a house move?
Most people begin planning as soon as a move becomes likely, even if dates are not confirmed.
What should I do first when moving house?
Early tasks usually include setting a provisional moving date, researching removals, decluttering and starting a moving checklist.
What happens if my moving date changes?
Delays and changes are common during a house move. Keeping tasks staged rather than tied to a single date makes it easier to adapt.
How long does it usually take to feel settled after moving?
Many people feel settled within a few weeks, although fully unpacking and organising a home can take longer.
