Routine guide
Moving House Checklist
A clear sequence of steps to prepare for moving home without losing track.
Moving house can feel like a lot at once. This checklist breaks the process into manageable steps from decluttering to first night essentials so you can work through the move methodically.
Step by step checklist
- 1
Declutter room by room
Before you pack, walk each room and decide what to keep, donate or recycle. Moving fewer things saves time, money and energy. Aim for one small area at a time rather than the whole house in a day.
- 2
Book movers and confirm dates
Once you know your moving window, book a removals company or line up help from friends and family. Confirm dates, times and access details in writing so everyone is aligned.
- 3
Update utilities and addresses
Contact energy, broadband and other providers to arrange final readings and new connections. Update your address with banks, employers and key services. Keeping a list in RoutineHQ helps you see what is done and what is left.
- 4
Pack by zone and label clearly
Pack rooms in zones such as kitchen cupboards or bedroom shelves. Label each box with both the destination room and a short description of contents so unpacking is much easier.
- 5
Prepare a first night box
Pack a box or suitcase with first night essentials such as bedding, basic toiletries, a change of clothes and simple kitchen items. Keep it with you rather than on the van so you can settle in without searching.
- 6
Walk through old and new homes
Before you hand over keys, do a final walk through your old place for forgotten items and meter readings. At the new home, walk through to note any immediate tasks and decide where key furniture will go.
Tips to make this routine easier
- Start the checklist as soon as you have a likely moving date, even if it is not confirmed yet.
- Use colour coded labels for boxes by room.
- Keep important documents and valuables in a separate bag you carry yourself.
- Take photos of cable setups behind TVs or desks before you unplug them.
Plan your move with RoutineHQ
Moving house is easier when you can see all the steps in one place. In RoutineHQ you can adapt this checklist to your situation, assign dates and tick off tasks as you go so moving day feels more like following a plan than putting out fires.
Start free in RoutineHQRelated routines
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Life Admin Routine
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Use this travel preparation checklist to sort passports, bookings and bags so you can start your trip feeling ready rather than rushed.
Frequently asked questions
How early should I start preparing to move?
As soon as you know you are likely to move, you can start light decluttering and planning. The more you do ahead of time, the less pressured the final weeks will feel.
What if I am moving on a tight budget?
If funds are limited, focus on careful planning and doing more yourself. Ask friends to help on the day, gather second hand boxes and prioritise essential services first.
Should I take everything or store some items?
Moves are a natural time to reassess belongings. Use the declutter step to decide what you truly want to bring into the new space and consider selling or donating what you no longer need.