Handy hints and tips for moving home

To make your move smoother, we've put together some useful tips, from essentials and finishing touches to a list of people that will need to know your new address.

Essentials
To take the stress out of your move, here's a checklist of important things to do and remember.

• Book your removal company well in advance.
• Book time off work if needed.
• Start to pack as early as possible once your date has been confirmed.
  
  
• Label the contents of all your packing boxes.
• Redirect your mail.
• Check insurance cover for your contents in transit.
  

Let them know
As well as you family and friends, have you called these people to give them your new address? Here's a list for you to check.

• Insurance companies.
• Your bank or building society.
• Credit card companies including store cards.
  
  
• Gas, electricity and water suppliers.
• Doctors, dentists and opticians.
• TV licence and any TV rental companies.
  
  
• Schools, colleges and universities.
• Financial services (pensions, investments, shares).
• Your employer.
  
  
• Your council tax office.
• Driving licence and vehicle registration office.
• Any hire purchase companies, any subscriptions you may have, any charities you donate to.

Things to make your move that bit sweeter.

• Take cuttings of favourite plants from the garden for your new home.
• Pack an overnight bag so your essential items are handy.
  
  
• Give your unwanted items to charity or find a good home for them.
• Check where the nearest take away is at your new address!