The time has come to start packing, the home straight, the beginning of the end!
Decide on a moving date (usually the completion date) just before contracts are exchanged. If at all possible try to avoid Fridays and bank holidays when removal firms are in high demand and may be stretched. For a less stressful move, opt for off-peak times such as mid-week. It is more likely your chosen removal firm will be available for that day.
There are 2 options for a moving day, get the professionals in or do it yourself.
 The professionals :
Resolve to book a removal firm as soon as you exchange contracts and the completion date is set. Get at least three estimates from different firms and don’t automatically accept the cheapest; you tend to get what you pay for. When comparing estimates make sure you are comparing like with like. Are packing materials, cartons and crates and VAT all included? A few weeks before the move, the removal firm should send someone to establish what the move will entail. Now is the time to point out anything that needs special care and attention, such as antiques, computers, pictures, etc. Highlight any large or awkward items of furniture, such as a piano or Large sofa which may require a specialist handler and/or have to be winched in through a window &ndash.
Tell the removal company if access from your old property or to your new property is likely to be difficult. Parking space for the removal lorry will also need to be considered. Such problems can add to the cost of a move and should be considered in the estimate. Don’t accept an estimate over the phone. All quotations should be in writing and include pricing for packing, loading and unloading, storage (if required), special handling for breakables and valuables and any other special requests, such as curtain hanging and cleaning. When you accept an estimate, insist a written quotation is sent to you as soon as possible. Establish a written timetable with the removal firm and check the foreman has all the necessary details. Make sure the removal firm has a clear map showing how to find your new home.
The DIY route:
If you are taking the DIY route, there are various things to consider. Firstly, make sure your insurance covers you for goods damaged during transit. The likelihood that something will be knocked, dropped or broken is fairly high considering the quantity of belongings that most people own. Ring around for a good van rental quote. A normal car licence should allow you to drive vans up to a laden weight of 7.5 tonnes. Check whether unlimited mileage is included. Depending on the distance, It might be false economy it you have to do ten trips in a van, when a removal company can do it in one, besides the fact that you will benefit from the experience of people who do it for a living.
TOP TIPS FOR THE MOVE:
Try to avoid moving on a Friday
Give as much notice as possible
Shop aroundMake sure all the relevant ‘insurance’ issues are covered
If going it alone make sure you have the right licence to drive the van
Have a clear out, don’t move things that will be thrown away
Get the children and pets looked after for the day
Label, box and map all the items out (colour coding can be useful)
Round up all the keys and things needed for the new owners
Make a complete inventory of every thing to be moved.
Who needs to be informed of the change of address and or phone number:
Employers
Banks
Utility companies
Credit card companies
Schools / nursery
DVLA – driving licence
Car V5 documents
Catalogues
Clubs or societies
Dog/cat collars
For a complete checklist please click here
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