Being organized before you move is absolutely key if things are to run smoothly, so we’ve compiled a comprehensive moving home checklist for you to print out and use.

The checklist doesn’t cover the tasks involved in the actual buying or selling of your home such as having a survey done or arranging a mortgage. No doubt, you will already be aware of these tasks, otherwise you won’t have a new home to move into!

Instead, we’ve tried to list all the people and organizations that you’ll need to contact to inform them of your change of address, and possibly, other contact details. Not every task may apply to you, but hopefully we’ve got everything covered, if not, please let us know.

We’ve also put together some useful packing tips to make your life easier:

	How many boxes do I need? Well, we don’t know and you probably won’t know either! However, with our minimum order of only £15 and free same day delivery to many areas, you don’t have to order all your boxes and packaging at once. Just do your packing in stages, giving yourself plenty of time.
	Moving home is an ideal opportunity to declutter, recycle, reorganize… and rediscover some forgotten memories too!
	Why not take unwanted items to a charity shop, sell them online, have a car boot sale, or deposit them in recycle bins for collection. Your local council may also take away unwanted large items; just give them a call to find out.
	Return any borrowed items such as library books and DVDs, and ask for the return of any items that you’ve loaned out to friends.
	Make sure that you use the right type of boxes and packaging materials when packing. Your possessions are valuable, so use the best quality boxes to protect them from damage when moving… it will be worth it in the end!
	Start packing those items you will need the least or don’t expect to use before your planned moving date, and tackle one room at a time.
	Use plenty of bubble wrap or tissue paper when wrapping up and packing fragile or valuable items, and fill any empty spaces with crushed up paper to ensure that items are firmly held inside the boxes.
	Don’t be tempted to fill every box to its full capacity, especially with heavy items; someone will have to carry it, even if it’s not you. Make sure that boxes are properly taped (several times if need be); even the strongest box will not hold together if it is not taped up adequately, especially from the bottom.
	Don’t forget to write the contents of each box on the outside and/or use room identification stickers, so you’ll know where everything is and where it should go when you arrive in your new home.
	Put aside one box for all your essential items, which you’ll need up until the last day of your packing as well as on the first day of your unpacking, and try to keep it with you. For example: scissors, tools, refuse bags, bulbs, tape measure, torch… and don’t forget the kettle and cups, tea/ coffee, and some snacks. You may also want to consider keeping some surface-cleaning products and toiletries with you separately, including toilet paper and soap.

Good luck with your move!