The night before
Pack your essentials box or bag: kettle, mugs, tea bags, coffee, toilet roll, hand soap, phone chargers, medications, basic cleaning supplies, a change of clothes, towels, and bedding. Charge all your devices. Defrost the fridge-freezer (put towels down for drips). Do a final sweep of the house — check cupboards, loft, shed, and garage. Confirm the time with your removal company. If you haven't already, make sure your packing is finished.
Morning of the move
Strip the beds (pack bedding in bin bags — quick and free). Take final meter readings and photograph them. Do a last check of every room, including inside cupboards, on top of wardrobes, and behind doors. Put your essentials box in your car — don't let it go on the van. Keep important documents, keys, and valuables with you at all times.
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Show the removal team around when they arrive and point out anything fragile or awkward. Let them know the plan for the new house — which rooms things should go in. Label boxes clearly so they can place them in the right rooms. Stay available to answer questions but try not to get in the way. Offer drinks and, if they're working through lunch, consider providing food.
Arriving at your new home
Do a quick check of the property before the removal van starts unloading — check for any issues or damage. Take photos of meter readings. Direct the removal team to the right rooms. Unpack your essentials box first — getting the kettle on and the beds made will make everything feel more manageable. Don't try to unpack everything on day one — see our first week in your new home guide for how to pace yourself.