How to prepare for moving day

Walk through every room and make one list of the items going in the van. Include cupboards, lofts, sheds and anything waiting outside. If the load has changed since your first request, tell the provider before the day so they can check that the vehicle, time and number of helpers still make sense.

Use boxes that can close securely and avoid making any one box too heavy to lift safely. Fill empty spaces so contents do not move around, protect sharp corners and label fragile boxes clearly. Keep fixings from dismantled furniture together in a named bag rather than loose in a drawer.

Set aside a small essentials bag with keys, chargers, drinks, basic cleaning supplies and anything you will need before the rest is unpacked.

Check parking at both addresses, including permits, loading restrictions and building rules. Clear hallways, prop internal doors safely where appropriate and protect any surface that needs extra care. If there is a lift, confirm its operating hours and whether it must be reserved.

Let the provider know about long carries, narrow staircases or entrances that are difficult to reach. Access can affect the time and equipment needed just as much as the distance between addresses.

Before the van leaves, check each room and compare the load with your list. Keep important documents and valuables with you, confirm the destination contact can be reached, and make sure everyone understands where the van is heading next.

Moving days rarely run to the minute. Build a little flexibility around key collection, lift access and travel, and avoid arranging another time-sensitive appointment immediately after the expected finish. Charge your phone and share any important updates with the provider as soon as they happen.

At the destination, decide roughly where the larger items should go before unloading starts. Simple room labels can reduce repeated lifting and keep entrances clearer. Once the van is empty, check it with the provider, compare the delivered items with your list and report any concern promptly while the details are still fresh.