Start earlier than feels necessary
The single biggest mistake is under-estimating decluttering and packing time. Start 8 weeks out with a room-by-room declutter — anything you would not pack should not move with you. Removal companies book up fast, especially on Fridays and month-ends; book at 6-8 weeks.
The essentials box
Pack one clearly labelled box last that travels in your car (not the removal van). Contents: kettle, mugs, tea and coffee, snacks, phone charger, toilet paper, first-night toiletries, children's essentials, pet food if applicable. The first hour in a new home is chaotic — the essentials box means it is survivable.
Change of address — do it early
The post redirect (Royal Mail) handles the stragglers, but you want your bank, HMRC, DVLA and NHS updated directly and promptly. Use our free change of address tracker to work through the full list systematically.
Our picks compared
| Pick | Product | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top pick | Packing boxes set 20-pack | Packing the house | Check price → |
| Tape | Packing tape dispenser gun set | Securing boxes | Check price → |
| Labels | Room-coded moving labels set | Organised unpacking | Check price → |
| Markers | Permanent marker set | Marking boxes | Check price → |
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