How to Plan a Move Without Losing Your Mind: The Ultimate Moving House Checklist UK (2025)
Planning to move house in 2025? Here’s the ultimate moving house checklist UK buyers need to stay sane, stay organised, and move into their new home without stress.
Moving in the UK? Don’t Panic — Plan Like a Pro
Whether you’re moving from a rented flat or stepping into your first-ever owned home moving house can feel chaotic . Packing boxes switching energy providers updating addresses—it’s a whirlwind.
But here’s the truth: a well-planned move doesn’t need to be stressful .
This 2025 Moving House Checklist UK breaks everything down into manageable tasks—so you can stay on top of every step avoid costly mistakes and even enjoy the excitement of a fresh start.
4 Weeks Before the Move: The Planning Phase
Confirm Your Moving Date
Exchange contracts if buying a house
Notify your landlord if renting (usually 4-week notice)
Book Your Removals Company
Get 2–3 quotes from local or national movers
Check if they’re insured and experienced with fragile items
Start Decluttering
Donate or sell anything you don’t want to bring
Use up food in your freezer
Arrange collection for bulky waste if needed
Begin Changing Your Address
Start a list of:
Utilities
Council Tax
Driving licence & DVLA
Banks & credit cards
GP dentist employer
Subscriptions and online shopping sites
2 Weeks Before: Packing & Admin
Start Packing Room-by-Room
Label boxes by room and priority
Pack essential documents and valuables separately
Don’t overfill boxes—aim for weight balance
Confirm Utility Transfers
Contact your energy water and broadband providers
Book your broadband install date (this can have long lead times)
Take meter readings from current and new property
Prepare a ‘Moving Essentials Kit’
Pack a bag with:
Toiletries and change of clothes
Phone chargers and snacks
Important paperwork and ID
Kettle mugs tea/coffee and loo roll
1 Week Before: The Final Countdown
Finalise Removals
Reconfirm timings and access with your movers
Reserve parking space if required
Notify neighbours of the moving day if needed
Pack a First Night Box
Include:
Bedding
Towels
Pyjamas
Lightbulbs
Cleaning supplies
Basic tools (screwdrivers utility knife)
Redirect Post
Use Royal Mail’s postal redirection service for peace of mind.
Moving Day
Take Final Meter Readings
Photograph the readings to avoid disputes.
Supervise the Move
Guide the movers at both ends
Keep your essentials bag with you
Check all rooms and cupboards before locking up
Collect the Keys
Ensure you’ve been told where and when to collect keys to your new home (especially in chain completions).
Check Utilities Are On
If anything’s not working flag it with your provider right away.
After the Move
Clean the New Place
Even if the previous owner cleaned you’ll want to give things a personal once-over.
Unpack Strategically
Start with the kitchen and bedroom
Take breaks—no need to finish in one day
Register with Local GP & Council
Don’t forget to register your new address for voting bins and local services.
Celebrate!
You made it. Whether it’s fish and chips on the floor or a toast with friends—enjoy the milestone!
Bonus First-Time Buyer Tips
If you’re moving into your first owned property remember:
You may need to arrange building insurance (required before exchange)
Set up council tax payments
Update your TV licence and broadband contracts
Consider joining local community or WhatsApp groups
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This content is optimized to answer these questions comprehensively.
What is the first thing to do when planning a house move?
The first step is to confirm your move date and book a removals company. This gives you a deadline to work toward and ensures availability during busy seasons.
How far in advance should I start packing?
Start packing 2–4 weeks before your move. Begin with non-essentials and label every box clearly to make unpacking easier.
Do I need to inform my energy provider when moving house?
Yes. You should notify your electricity, gas, and water suppliers at least 2 weeks before the move, provide final meter readings, and set up service at your new address.
What should be in a moving essentials kit?
Pack a bag with toiletries, a change of clothes, phone chargers, important documents, snacks, and basic cleaning supplies—things you’ll need right away at the new house.
How do I update my address when I move?
Create a checklist of places to update: banks, HMRC, employer, DVLA, subscriptions, insurance providers, and your GP. Also consider setting up Royal Mail redirection.
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