The Ultimate Moving Home Checklist (2026 Guide)

Moving house is often cited as one of life’s most stressful events, but with the right preparation, it doesn't have to be. Whether you are a first-time buyer, upgrading to a larger family space, or renting a new flat, having a comprehensive moving home checklist is the secret to a smooth, stress-free transition.

We’ve combined the top expert advice from industry leaders like Which?, MoneySavingExpert, and the HomeOwners Alliance to bring you the ultimate, step-by-step moving home checklist for 2026.

Phase 1: 1 to 2 Months Before Moving Day

The key to a successful move is starting early. Use this time to organize the logistics so you aren't rushing at the last minute.

1. Declutter and Donate

Before you even buy a roll of packing tape, clear out the clutter. Which? recommends sorting your belongings into three categories: Keep, Donate/Sell, and Throw Away. Moving fewer items means lower removal costs and less unpacking later.

2. Book a Removals Company

HomeOwners Alliance suggests gathering at least three quotes from BAR-registered (British Association of Removers) companies.

• Ask if they offer packing materials or packing services.

Pro tip: Check if you need to arrange parking permits for the removal van at your current or new address.

3. Check Your Home Insurance

As highlighted by the Post Office, check if your current home insurance covers your belongings while they are in transit. If not, you may need to purchase additional moving insurance or check if your removals firm provides adequate cover.

4. Order Your Broadband

MoneySavingExpert warns that setting up a new internet connection can take several weeks. Contact your current provider to either move your existing package to the new address or start comparing new broadband deals for your new postcode.

Phase 2: 2 to 4 Weeks Before the Move

This is when the physical work begins. It’s time to start packing non-essentials and informing key organizations of your new address.

5. Start Packing (Smartly)

Begin packing rooms you use the least (like the loft, garage, or spare room).

• Label everything: Clearly mark boxes with the room they belong in and a brief list of contents.
• Color code: Use colored stickers for different rooms to make unloading easier for the movers.

6. Set Up Mail Redirection

To protect against identity theft and ensure you don’t miss important letters, set up Royal Mail’s Redirection service. The Post Office advises doing this at least five working days before you move, though you can set it up up to three months in advance.

7. The "Who to Notify" Checklist

Update your address with the following essential organizations:

• Your Local Council: Settle your current Council Tax bill and register at your new address.
• DVLA: Update your driving licence and vehicle logbook (V5C) – failure to do so can result in a fine.
• Banks and Credit Cards: Update your billing address.
• Electoral Roll: Re-register to vote at your new property to protect your credit score.
• Healthcare: Notify your GP, dentist, and optician.
• Employer: Update HR for your payroll and tax records.

Phase 3: 1 Week Before Moving

The final countdown! Focus on the essentials you need for the first few days in your new home.

8. Pack an "Essentials" Box

This is the most critical packing tip. Pack a clearly marked box (or suitcase) with everything you will need for the first 24 hours.

• Kettle, tea bags, coffee, and mugs
• Toilet roll and basic toiletries
• Phone chargers
• Important documents (passports, mortgage/rental paperwork)
• Clean bed linen for the first night
• Basic tools (screwdriver, Allen keys) for reassembling furniture
• Cleaning supplies

9. Empty and Defrost the Fridge/Freezer

Try to eat up the contents of your fridge and freezer. Defrost the freezer at least 24 hours before moving day and lay down towels to catch any leaks.

10. Notify Utility Suppliers

British Gas recommends contacting your gas and electricity suppliers at least 48 hours before you move. Let them know your move-out date and your forwarding address for the final bill.

Phase 4: Moving Day

Today is all about executing the plan. Stay hydrated and keep your essentials box close!

11. Take Final Meter Readings

Before you hand over the keys, take a photo of your gas, electricity, and water meters. MoneySavingExpert advises keeping these photos as proof so you are only billed for the energy you actually used.

12. Do a Final Walkthrough

Check every cupboard, drawer, and outbuilding. Ensure all windows are closed, lights are off, and the heating is turned down.

13. Arriving at the New Home

• Read the new meters: As soon as you arrive, take photos of the gas and electricity meters at the new property and submit them to the current supplier.
• Locate the stopcock and fuse box: Find out where the main water shut-off valve and the fuse box are immediately, just in case of an emergency.
• Check utilities: Ensure the electricity, gas, and water are running.

Phase 5: After the Move

You’re in! But there are a few final tasks to complete before you can fully relax.

14. Change the Locks

You never know who still has a spare key from the previous owners (neighbors, tradespeople, or family members). For peace of mind, arrange for a locksmith to change the exterior locks as soon as possible.

15. Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Test all the alarms in the house on your first day to ensure they are working perfectly, replacing batteries if necessary.

16. Find the Best Energy Deal

When you move into a new property, you are automatically placed on the previous supplier's "deemed" standard variable tariff, which is rarely the cheapest option. Compare energy prices and switch to a better deal.

Special Considerations for London Movers

Moving in the capital comes with its own unique set of logistical hurdles. If you are relocating within the M25, you need to factor in Transport for London (TfL) rules, local borough restrictions, and the city's infamous traffic.

• Parking Suspensions and Red Routes: You cannot simply park a large Luton van on a London street. You must apply to your local borough council for a parking suspension well in advance (often 10 to 14 days). Furthermore, if your new or old property sits on a TfL "Red Route" (marked by double red lines), stopping is strictly prohibited. You will need a specialized dispensation or a strategic loading plan.
• ULEZ and Congestion Charges: London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) now covers all London boroughs. If a removal van does not meet strict emissions standards, it incurs heavy daily charges, on top of the Central London Congestion Charge.
• Access and Narrow Streets: Victorian terraced streets and high-rise apartment blocks often mean tight stairwells and no lifts. Navigating these obstacles without damaging your furniture requires local expertise.

The Solution:

Navigating these strict rules is exactly why partnering with a specialist team for your house removals London is crucial. A local, professional crew will already have ULEZ-compliant vehicles and can handle the heavy lifting of council parking permits on your behalf.

Additionally, property chains in the capital often face delays, or you may find yourself downsizing to a smaller flat. If you have a gap between your move-in dates or simply need to declutter, utilizing integrated moving and storage London services ensures your belongings are kept perfectly safe until you are ready for them.

Summary

By following this moving home checklist, you can take the chaos out of moving day. Remember: book your broadband and removals early, tackle your packing room by room, and never pack the kettle at the bottom of a box! Happy moving!