We from Moving Company Direct have put together a checklist to give you an overview of what you need to arrange when you are moving. This list contains all the important points that you need to arrange before or during the move.

You can print a copy of this list, or keep this list handy to make the move as easy and smooth as possible. Do you want to plan your move right away? Then request a quote. Happy moving!

1. Research & Preparation

Once you’ve found a new home and your offer has been accepted, it’s time to start your moving checklist! If there are no issues, a simple move can take about 8 weeks. Getting the legal stuff sorted early is essential to ensure a smooth transaction when buying or selling your home.

Find the perfect house and hire a purchasing agent. Are you not at home in buying and negotiating? Then it may be wise to hire a purchasing agent. This does cost money, but it can be worth it, especially because they can also help you with the negotiations.
Find out what to consider when choosing a mortgage, then arrange your mortgage If you are looking to sell your home, compare notaries too.
Research the new area you want to live in and see what amenities are available in the area
If you have children, check whether they will have to change schools and, if so, ask for information about the school.
If you are currently renting, confirm your move-out date with your landlord or real estate agent (if you are buying a home)
Insure your valuables and check that your insurance policy covers all of this. If not, your moving company can provide cover, do this early to avoid problems.
Buy a diary or notebook to keep notes about your move. You can also put a USB stick on your key ring so that you always have the necessary documents with you and have everything at hand when you move.

2. Do thorough research on your (new) home

If you have a little over a month to go before your move, you may want to start decluttering everything you don’t want to move to your new home. A good declutter will save you money on your moving costs, and make unpacking easier!

You can start planning your move even if you don’t have a fixed date yet. If you plan this, you can also coordinate this with your moving company so that they are aware of when you are moving and can also put this in the agenda.
Make a full inventory of your belongings. Decide what you are taking to your new home and where you are going to put it, a floor plan of your new home can help. If you would like this we recommend that you ask your realtor.
Figure out the best way to get rid of your unwanted belongings. Remember that moving companies quote based on volume, so the less you have to move, the cheaper your move will be.
Request a quote from a moving company for your move. For example at Moving Company Direct.
Gather packing materials. Your moving company may be able to provide these. For example, our moving company does this by moving boxes, wrapping paper and other items that can make moving extra easy. Look for this in our shop.
If you are moving for a job, find out what costs your employer will cover.
Check the parking restrictions for large moving vehicles at your current home and at your new home. Your moving company may need to apply for a permit from the local council.

3. Close contracts and pack your belongings

If you have about a month to go before the move, you will likely have had a buyer’s agent inspect your new home and inform you of its condition. If there are any issues with the home, you may want to renegotiate your offer (if it is a purchase home).

Talk to your notary about exchanging contracts and setting the moving date

If you haven’t confirmed a date with your moving company, check their availability. If you’ve already received quotes for your move but haven’t chosen a company, check to see if they have good reviews.

Some other helpful tips:

Since moving companies may charge a surcharge during busy periods such as holidays, Fridays and summer, it is wise to see if you can be flexible.
Are you renting a moving van? Then it is wise to plan a route, so that you do not drive an unnecessarily long route.
Of course, if you hire a moving company, this is not necessary.
If you need storage space for your belongings, your moving company may be able to offer or recommend it.
Have your new home cleaned in the period between the departure of the old owners and your move in.
You can order new furniture or take your old furniture with you to your new home. If you choose new furniture, always make sure that you measure everything properly. Even with old furniture, it is good to check whether it fits in your new home.
Start packing non-essential items.
Clear out the attic, shed and other storage areas and clean any garden tools that the moving company will need to transport.
Notify the utility companies and activate the insurance for your new home
Check that everything you take with you fits in the car
Book a hotel stay if the journey is long. There are often many deals to be found online, if you are going to stay overnight on a weekday outside the holiday period.

4. Get ready to move home

At this stage of the move, it is important that you arrange important details of your move and do not overlook anything. We at Moving Company Direct can for example ensure that your washing machine, dishwasher or furniture can be dismantled. Some moving companies do not provide these services. Good to keep this in mind.

Is your move getting closer? Make sure you have confirmed the times with the moving company, that you have the directions in order and know whether there is parking available at your new home.
If applicable, check that you have enough medication for the moving period
Safely remove all flammable materials and liquids that require special handling, as this is not something a moving company can help you with.
Cancel local services you receive and settle outstanding bills. Also consider subscriptions or magazines, newspapers, gardeners, cleaners, window cleaners etc.
Throw away frozen foods and other perishables that do not transport well.

5. Update your address and get your affairs in order

It's the last week at your old address before you move to your new home, and during this week it's important to prioritize everything, finish packing your belongings, and get moving!

Keep all important documents in a safe, but accessible place.
Create a “day bag” with everything you need to get through the day relaxed.
Pack as much stuff as possible so that you have everything ready to go, do this systematically and don't forget outdoor toys and equipment.
Color-label boxes so you know where to put them.
Collect the keys to your current home and don't forget the spare keys you gave to neighbors or friends.
Defrost the refrigerator and freezer – make sure they are completely dry before moving.
Return any borrowed items you may have forgotten, such as tools or books.
Give away plants and flowers that you are not taking with you. It is not easy for moving companies to move potted plants.
Wash and dry all your linens and clothing, box them up and label them so they are ready to be unpacked in your new home
Make arrangements to pay for your move and ensure you have sufficient funds in the bank for emergencies.
Send change of address cards to friends and family.
Reserve a time to collect the keys to your new home from the estate agent.

6. Get ready to leave your old home

It is the last day at your address, it is time for a final check and a walk around the house to make sure nothing is forgotten. An overnight bag will help you settle into your new home and have a good night's sleep. Make sure it is separated from the items that go with the moving truck.

Walk through your home for a final, thorough check. Take your time doing this to make sure you don't leave anything behind
Pack an overnight bag for the family so you have your toothbrush, pajamas, toiletries, and towels handy.
Have a tool kit on hand, along with a sharp knife to open boxes upon arrival.
Make sure you have the keys to your new home, or have had them collected in advance, and collect the keys to all the locks from your old home.
Make sure your mobile phone is fully charged (and that you have your charger to hand on the day).
If you are arranging help from family or friends on moving day, confirm the details with them and make sure they have your new address in case they need it.

7. Closing and leaving

On a day when emotions can run high, having a plan can help you feel calm and in control, meaning you know what to do on your last morning in the property. Be ready when your removal company arrives so they can get started quickly. Check for any boxes that need special care or that they are not allowed to take. Make sure you take meter readings to pass on to your energy supplier and leave the keys for the new owner. It’s now time to move into your new home!

Note down all meter readings for water, electricity and gas. We recommend taking a photo of the meters with your mobile phone. It may also be worth comparing providers to get a better deal.
Strip the beds and pack your bedding and curtains.
Identify fragile boxes and items that will be traveling with you in the car so that your moving team does not pack them.
Please ensure that one person remains until your movers have finished packing to check the packing inventory, make sure that everything is accounted for as you will need to sign for confirmation.
Please leave all keys as agreed for the new owners.
Check that all windows are securely sealed and utilities are turned off.
Make sure your movers have contact information for you, and confirm the address of the new home.
Keep copies of the contact information for your landlord, real estate agent and moving company.

8. Check your new home

When you arrive at your new home, it is important to inform your moving company of any special instructions and that they know which room the boxes need to go to. Make sure that you are satisfied that everything in your inventory is present before your moving company leaves.

Confirm what goes where and any special instructions with your moving company. Make sure that there is one person at the new location ready to guide the movers through the house. If you color code the rooms on the floor plan to match the boxes, this will make it easier for them. You can also put a colored piece of paper on each door to make it easier.
Check each item in your inventory and check for any damaged or missing items. Do not sign until you are completely satisfied.
Put moving papers and other important documents in a safe place where you can easily find them. It may sound crazy, but in the bath is a good option!
Read the utility meters in your new home. Take pictures on your phone for safekeeping.
Check that all keys to the home work. If you have hired a locksmith to install new locks, keep the new keys separate from the old ones.
Inspect the garden. Make sure it is child/pet proofed if applicable (check for hidden ponds, broken fencing or access points that need to be secured).
Search for items. If the previous owners left anything behind, put it in a box and have them come pick it up later.

9. Relax in your new home

After months of preparation, planning and arranging for your move, it is finally time to relax! After a busy moving day, don’t try to unpack everything at once. Make the beds and relax in the evening with your loved ones and congratulate yourself on making it through the move.

Just tidy up and clean and then make the beds so you can crawl straight into them after a busy day.
Connect your phones, mobile phones and larger appliances such as refrigerators and freezers.
Use the boiler and the heating. Make sure you know how to use it so that you have a hot shower and a warm house.
Take the younger children to a room with toys.
If possible, keep pets away from your home until you are settled.
Note the emergency numbers from doctors, taxis, veterinarians, local hospitals, etc.
Don’t expect everything to be ready right away. Order food and have it unpacked for tomorrow. If you order takeaway via an app or online, make sure you update your delivery address.
Here are a few things that might come in handy:
Let older children decorate their own rooms. You may want to rearrange things in the future, but it can help them feel at home.
Re-arrange matters. If you had milk, newspapers or subscriptions delivered to your old address, you may want to have them delivered to your new address. Arrange this with these companies.
Compare energy prices to find a good deal on utilities.
Your neighbors may introduce themselves to you, but if they don't, take the opportunity to say hello, they'll probably have some good tips about the neighborhood.
Decorate your bedroom – Decorating your room with more pictures and personal items can make a big difference to your comfort level.

Still confused about what to arrange for your move?

When you read this article you might think: what a hassle! We can well imagine that. If you do not move regularly, moving can be quite difficult. Therefore, hire Verhuisbedrijf Direct and we can relieve you of the entire move! Do you have any questions after reading this article? Please let us know.

Moving house: what to arrange?