Parking and access

If the van needs reserved space, this should already be sorted, as councils need time. If it is not, do it now. Our Parking and Access guide explains how it works and links to the councils we work in.

Tell people you are moving

Notify banks, your employer, doctor, insurers and anyone else who writes to you. Set up your Royal Mail redirection and arrange final bills for broadband and phone. Our After the Move guide has the full list.

Stop deliveries

Pause milk, newspapers and any regular orders, and re-route parcels you are expecting.

Utilities and meters

Tell your suppliers the moving date. On the day, take meter readings before you leave and again when you arrive, with a photo of each.

Pack an essentials box

Fill a box or bag with what you will want first: kettle, tea or coffee, toilet roll, washing up liquid, cleaning products, bed linen and important documents. Keep it with you, not on the van.

Keep some things with you

Certain items are better off travelling in your own hands. That includes jewellery, watches, cash, important papers, phones and laptops. Our full list is in the Moving Day guide.

Tip: Keep jewellery, watches, cash, important papers, phones and laptops with you, not on the van.

Check the packing

If you are packing yourself, finish early and label every box with its room. If we are packing, tell us what you need left out. Our Packing Guide covers how to prepare.

Think about the new place

Know where the furniture is going before it arrives, and measure anything you are unsure about. It is easier to decide at the desk than at the front door with a sofa.

The night before

Charge your phone, set out what you need in the morning and make sure someone knows the start time and where the van will park. We arrive in a 30 minute window, usually from 8am, so be ready for that.