Whether you're moving up, scaling down, or buying your very first home, it’s a big step—and we know it can feel a bit overwhelming at times. At JW Wood, we’re here to make the process easier and more affordable, with advice you can trust and support every step of the way.
That’s why we’ve created this handy moving home checklist packed with practical tips to help you plan, stay organised, and save money before, during, and after your move. So grab a cuppa, take a deep breath, and let’s get moving—together.
PART 1: BEFORE MOVING DAY
1. Start Planning Your Move Early
Light move or first-time buyer? Hiring a van and doing it yourself through services like Enterprise Car Club or Zipcar can save you hundreds.
Moving bigger items or heading further afield? Compare quotes from trusted movers at Compare My Move or Reallymoving.com.
Top Tip: Moving midweek (especially Tuesdays) or during quieter months like January can help lower costs.
Check they’re insured and ideally members of the British Association of Removers for peace of mind.
2. Find Free Packing Supplies
No need to spend a fortune on boxes! Try:
Local Facebook groups
Freecycle or Freegle
Supermarkets
Friends or neighbours
Bonus Tip: Use suitcases, laundry baskets, and vacuum bags for soft items to save space (and money).
3. Declutter Before You Pack
Moving is the perfect time to lighten the load. Sell or give away what you no longer need:
Sell on Vinted, eBay or Facebook Marketplace.
Donate or recycle the rest via charity shops or apps like Olio.
A lighter move = a cheaper move!
4. Use Up or Share Food
Start using up what’s in the fridge and freezer a couple of weeks before moving day. Anything unopened and in-date can be donated via apps like Olio or taken to a local food bank.
5. Sort Out Utilities in Advance
Broadband: Book installation early—it can take a few weeks!
Energy: See if you can move your current deal. If not, compare prices via MoneySavingExpert’s Cheap Energy Club.
Water, Council Tax, TV Licence: Let them know your move-in date.
Take final meter readings before you leave (snap a photo too, just in case!).
6. Ask the Sellers These Handy Questions
Before you move in, try to get answers to these:
Where’s the stopcock?
Where are the gas, electric, and water meters?
When’s bin day?
Any instruction manuals left for appliances?
Paint colours or wallpaper details?
Current broadband or energy suppliers?
Thermostat or boiler tips?
Pest issues (past or present)?
Cleaning advice for tricky surfaces?
Where are tiles or flooring from (in case you need spares)?
7. Plan Ahead for Food on Moving Day
The last thing you’ll want is to worry about cooking!
Pre-order a food shop to arrive later in the day
Or treat yourself to a takeaway (check online for discount codes first!)
PART 2: ON MOVING DAY
Keep it Calm & Organised
Label every box clearly with the room and contents (label the top and side).
Load large furniture first, then stack lighter boxes around it.
Bag screws/bolts, label them, and tape them to furniture.
Protect floors in both homes using flattened cardboard or old towels.
Keep cleaning kit handy—you might need it at both ends.
Take meter readings at your new home and photograph them.
PART 3: AFTER MOVING DAY
1. Redirect Your Post
Royal Mail offers a redirection service (from £39.50) so you don’t miss any important letters—and it helps guard against identity fraud.
2. Furnish Smart, Not Fast
Don’t rush to fill every room. Take your time to see what fits your new space. Check Freegle, Freecycle, and Facebook Marketplace for freebies or budget finds.
3. Register to Vote
It’s quick and easy at gov.uk/register-to-vote. It also helps your credit score and ensures you’re ready for local elections.
4. Give It a Fresh Start with a Deep Clean
Even if your sellers were tidy, it’s always nice to start fresh. Save on cleaning costs by using tips and tricks from online groups—or rope in a few friends and make it fun!
5. Check Your Council Tax Band
It’s worth checking if your property is in the right band—some homes are overcharged! Compare with neighbours and submit a challenge. You might be entitled to £1,000s back.
A Final Word from JW Wood
Moving home is one of life’s biggest journeys—but it doesn’t have to be stressful.
With a little planning, some smart choices, and help from the right people, it can even be enjoyable!
At JW Wood, we’ve been helping people across County Durham and the North East move for generations. If you need advice, recommendations, or just a reassuring chat—we’re always here for you.
Let’s make your next move your best one.
Adapted from Which and Money Saving Expert