How to Plan a Move Without Losing Your Mind: The Ultimate Moving House Checklist UK (2025)

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