As I sat among a pile of boxes after recently moving home, I thought it might be helpful to share what worked for us in the process.
We got some things right, but were far from perfect in other areas and we learnt a lot for the next time (hopefully not any time soon!).

1. Plan ahead: Once your move date is set, create a timeline. List everything you need to do before, during and after the move. Breaking the process into smaller steps helps avoid last-minute stress.

2. Declutter early: Before you pack, go through your belongings and decide what to keep, donate or discard. Moving is the perfect chance to clear out what you no longer use, saving both time and money.

3. Measure and prepare your new space: Before moving day, measure your new home’s windows for curtains or blinds, check where larger furniture will fit and make a note of wall spaces for hanging art or mirrors. This avoids surprises and helps the movers know exactly where items belong. Remember, curtains and blinds often need to be ordered in advance if you want to avoid sleeping with an eye mask for the first couple of weeks!

4. Organise services in advance: Book a reliable moving company early, compare quotes and confirm they are insured. At the same time, arrange essential services for your new home. Set up your internet connection, schedule utility transfers and, if needed, book a handyman to help with small jobs like hanging pictures, assembling furniture or installing curtain rails. Having these sorted before moving day makes settling in much quicker.

5. Pack smart: Use strong boxes and quality packing materials. Label each box by room and contents and keep a detailed list to make unpacking easier. Do not forget a “first-night” box with bedding, toiletries, chargers, snacks and a kettle for that essential cup of tea or coffee.

6. Moving-day essentials: Keep valuables, important documents and medications with you instead of packing them into the moving truck. Provide movers with a floor plan or simple room labels (like “Bedroom 1” or “Study”) to make unloading more efficient.

7. Take care of yourself: Remember to eat, stay hydrated and take breaks. Moving can be physically and mentally draining, so pacing yourself makes a big difference.

A move will always take effort, but with careful preparation – measuring, booking services and organising support ahead of time – you can avoid unnecessary stress. Think of it as a fresh start: the more you plan before moving day, the faster you will feel at home in your new space.

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