Latest Interiors: On the Move

 Moving house can be seriously stressful. But don’t panic: you might not be able to change the impact that estate agents, solicitors, vendors and buyers have on your life, however careful planning can help the move itself go smoothly.

This week, Latest Interiors shows you how to handle a stress-free move.

Planning
Careful planning will make all the difference. If you’re moving yourself, hire the right size van – too small, and you’ll be making several trips.

If you’re using a company, get at least three quotes, and book the successful company three to four weeks in advance of M-day. Many companies offer a range of services, and you can usually choose to have everything done for you, or pack it up yourself but leave the lifting and moving to the experts.

Remember to make a list of your possessions, ensure the company you use is a member of the British Association of Removers, and check their – and your – insurance details.

Order packing equipment like boxes, tapes, and labels, well in advance (and order a few more than you think you need). Attics, cupboards and so on can also be packed and stored well in advance.

Packing it up
Before you start packing, have a sort out. You might have done this before putting your house on the market anyway, since an uncluttered home is more attractive to buyers. Even so, this is a final opportunity to get rid of things you no longer need.

Begin at the top of the house and move downwards (or bedrooms first, in flats). Wrap items individually, but keep items and boxes from specific rooms together to save time later.

Pack key items – important documents, cleaning products and equipments, kitchen essentials – so that you can find them quickly when you move. Make sure everyone moving has an ‘overnight’ bag for the first night, and pack a ‘first night’ box of essentials for breakfast, bedding and so on.

Finally, load boxes with items you use least into your van or car first, saving the most important things for last – where you can reach them quickly.

Moving on
Still worrying? Then make a list. Stick to the plan, and by the big day you’ll be packed, sorted and ready to go. Use our list as a starting point:

Six weeks before the move:
• Confirm the moving date (if you can)
• Start investigating removal companies or van rentals
• Sort through your stuff, and get
rid of things you don’t need
• Notify utility companies, landlords or leaseholders (if they don’t
know already)

Two-weeks before the move:
• Arrange for your post to be re-directed
• Change dentist and doctor registrations (if applicable)
• Start packing non-essential items
• Send out change of address cards
• Notify your bank, insurance companies, DVLA, and any other organisation you deal with of your new address
• Finalise details with the removal company
• Arrange for children or pets to be looked after when you move and...
• Cancel the milk