Moving house can be a big task, and there are plenty of things to remember to make the process smoother. Here’s a checklist of things not to forget when moving:

1. Start Early

• Packing: Start packing well in advance, especially items you don’t need daily.
  Declutter: Go through your things and get rid of anything you don’t need or want.

2. Label Boxes

• Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. This will make unpacking or storage much easier.

3. Update Your Address

• Postal Service: Change your address with the post office to forward mail.
• Subscriptions: Update your address with any subscription services or magazines.
• Banks and Utilities: Notify your bank, credit card companies, and utility providers of your new address.

4. Organise Utilities and Services

• Disconnect Services: Arrange for services like electricity, gas, water, internet, etc., to be disconnected or transferred to your new address
• Set Up New Utilities: Set up utilities at your new home before moving in to ensure everything is working when you arrive.

5. Take Photos of Your Old Home

• Take pictures of the condition of your old home (especially for renters) to avoid disputes with landlords or property managers.

6. Take Inventory

• Make a list of valuable items or anything that requires special care during the move.

7. Pack a Moving Essentials Box

• This should include items you’ll need immediately upon arrival (toiletries, snacks, important documents, chargers, first aid kit, etc.).

8. Notify Family and Friends

• Let them know your new address and moving date so they can plan accordingly, especially if they’re helping you move.

9. Hire Movers or Rent a Truck

• If you’re using professional movers, book them in advance. If renting a truck, make sure you have a reservation.

10. Check for Parking Permits

• If you’re moving into a busy area or city, check if you need a parking permit for the moving truck.

11. Clear Out the Fridge and Freezer

• Eat or give away perishables, as they’ll spoil during the move.

12. Clean the House Before You Go

• If you’re renting, clean the house thoroughly to leave it in good condition. It’ll also make your move-out process easier.

13. Secure Important Documents

• Keep your important documents (e.g., birth certificates, passports, medical records, etc.) in a safe and easily accessible place.

14. Take Care of Pets

• Plan how your pets will be transported and settled in the new home. You might want to have someone take care of them on moving day to avoid stress.

15. Prepare for the First Night

• Set aside bedding, toiletries, and other essentials you’ll need for the first night so you don’t have to dig through boxes.

16. Change Locks or Codes (if applicable)

• If you’re moving into a new home, it’s always a good idea to change the locks or entry codes for security purposes.

17. Check for Repairs or Fixes

• If you’ve bought a new house, inspect for any needed repairs, so you can handle them before moving in fully.

18. Set Up Your Internet and Cable

• Contact your internet/cable provider ahead of time to schedule installation so it’s ready when you move in.

19. Moving Insurance

• Check with your moving company if they provide insurance or consider purchasing coverage for any valuable or fragile items.

20. Dispose of Hazardous Materials

• Dispose of any hazardous materials (e.g., paint, cleaning chemicals, batteries, etc.) safely.

Being organised and planning ahead can make the whole process of moving much less stressful. It helps to stay ahead of time and have a checklist for everything!