As soon as the move is decided
Confirm possession and key availability at the destination before promising a collection date. Make a room-by-room inventory and decide what to sell, donate or leave behind. Identify delicate pieces and any furniture that needs assessment for dismantling. Photograph both large belongings and difficult entry points. Start a simple move folder containing quotations, contact details and building instructions, so important decisions do not disappear into separate conversations.
Before you confirm the booking
Share both addresses, PIN codes, floors, lift access and the expected goods list. Agree the services, payment milestones and any exclusions in writing. Ask how changes to the inventory or date should be communicated. For complex access, request a review before collection rather than waiting for moving day. See what affects local moving charges to make sure the quotation describes the work you are expecting.
During the days before collection
Book the lift or loading slot where required, arrange entry permissions and confirm vehicle access. Pack infrequently used belongings first and label cartons clearly. Keep paired components and small furniture fittings together in labelled containers. Organise qualified help for appliances that require professional disconnection. Avoid packing anything prohibited by the mover; consult the restricted items policy and declare uncertain items before they enter sealed cartons.
The evening before the move
Prepare a personal essentials bag with medicines, documents, chargers, a change of clothes and basic toiletries. Keep jewellery, cash and important originals under your control. Charge your phone and share the meeting point and entry instructions with the coordinator. Confirm that someone can receive goods at the new address. Clear passageways and identify items that must not be loaded, including landlord-owned furniture or belongings reserved for a later trip.
At collection and during unloading
Check the package count, identify pre-existing marks and keep a copy of the handover record. Walk through cupboards, balconies and storage areas before leaving. At the destination, explain room names and furniture positions before unloading begins. Count goods as they arrive instead of waiting until cartons are scattered. Record visible damage or shortages promptly and accurately, and keep any relevant packaging if a concern needs review.
After the vehicle has left
Start with beds, essential clothing and basic kitchen supplies. Check small fittings and components while you still remember their carton labels. Keep receipts and shipment records until the move is fully settled. Review any unresolved concern with the mover using dates, package numbers and photographs. For a practical sequence on the day itself, open the local moving-day checklist; for the wider plan, see our same-city moving guide.
Common questions
When should I start preparing?
Begin once the move is likely, and confirm dates after keys and access arrangements are clear.
Should I pack important documents with household goods?
Keep important originals and immediate-use personal items with you.
Do I need a list for a small move?
Yes. Even a short list makes collection and receiving checks easier.
Make your next local move easier to organise.
Share your goods list, origin and destination, preferred date and access details. Let us review the moving services you need.
Shipping already packed items? Explore the Rate Calculator →