A Guide to moving out and into your new property

Moving can be quite a daunting experience and is no walk in the park, especially without this blog to assist you with your move.

One Month before moving:

- Prior to, give your four weeks' notice to your landlord or letting agent (if applicable), confirm the moving date in order to determine your precise timeline.

- Consider if it would be cheaper to hire a van and transfer your items yourself rather than hiring a removals company.

- Remember to schedule a few days off work around the day of your move, if necessary.

Three weeks before you move:

- Start looking for containers and packaging boxes. See your local store and enquire about any leftover boxes they may have, or ask friends and relatives to lend you theirs for free. Keep in mind that most removal companies will only accept packed boxes with lids on if you're utilising one.

- Have a clear out before you begin packing. Sort the unwanted stuff you have by deciding what should be thrown away and what should be donated to a worthy cause.

- Additionally, you want to ahead of time update the addresses on your credit cards, driving licence, tax registration, bank accounts and TV license.

Two weeks before you move:

- Notify your utilities, house insurance, and internet providers of your relocation. They might provide you with a discount if you keep using their services.

- Pack, label, and package your non-essential stuff now.

- Begin emptying your freezer, make an effort to use everything inside. Make arrangements with the Post Office to have your mail forwarded to your new address starting on the day you move.

One week before you move:

- To maximise space, move your packed non-essential belongings into a single room and stack them.

- Defrost your freezer.

- Check your reservation by contacting your van rental or removals business.

- Arrange when you can drop off your keys and final meter readings at your old and new houses, as well as when you can pick up your new keys on moving day, get in touch with your landlord or letting agent.

- As required in your letting agreement, give your place a thorough cleaning and tend to the gardens. Take thorough pictures of every space and room, noting any deterioration that you fear could affect your deposit.

The day before you move:

- Make sure you have enough clothing and amenities in your overnight bag to last you the following few days.

- When the last few things are ready to move, package and box them.

The day itself:

- Rise early and prepare any last-minute necessities.

- Take note of your last meter readings and turn off the gas and water before you write them down and give them to your utility companies.

- Wait for the removalists to arrive and load all of your belongings, or load your vehicle.

- Verify again that nothing is left behind and that all windows and doors are closed and locked.

- Drop off your old keys and final readings at your landlord or letting agent while you're moving your belongings.

- Get your new keys from your landlord or letting agent.

- When you get to the property, unload your belongings or watch over someone else doing it for you. Examine the property to find any damage or problems that you may need to bring up with your new landlord. If needed, take pictures to prove it.