The London Mover's Handbook: Everything You Need to Know

Eight Weeks Before Moving

Start by locking in your moving date and booking your van hire immediately. In London, man and van services fill up weeks in advance — particularly on Fridays, Saturdays and at month-end. Book at least 3–4 weeks ahead for standard moves.

Begin a ruthless declutter. Every item you don't move saves time, money and effort. London's Freecycle and Gumtree groups are excellent for shifting furniture. Most councils offer free or subsidised bulky waste collection — check yours before paying for a skip.

Six Weeks Before

If you need a parking bay suspension (essential for many Central and Inner London moves), do it now. Most London councils require at least 5 working days' notice, and fees are typically £50–£90 per day per bay.

Start collecting packing materials. Cardboard boxes are free from supermarket loading bays early in the morning. Buy proper double-walled removal boxes for heavy items — thin cardboard splits under weight.

Four Weeks Before

Begin the address change process. Key organisations: HMRC, DVLA, your bank, NHS GP, employer HR, and all subscriptions. Set up Royal Mail redirection from the old address for at least six months — it's the best insurance against missed post.

Two Weeks Before

Pack rooms you use least first: spare bedroom, loft, shed, garage. Label every box on the side (not the top) so you can read labels when stacked. Use a colour per room for faster unpacking.

Moving Day

Be ready before your van arrives. Have all boxes sealed, labelled and stacked by the exit. Clear a walking path from every room to the front door. Do a final sweep of every cupboard, drawer, loft hatch and outdoor space before leaving. Take meter readings at both addresses and photograph them.

Settling In

Unpack your "first night" box first: kettle, mugs, bedding, phone charger, toiletries and a change of clothes. Register with a new GP within two weeks. Update your address on the electoral roll at gov.uk.

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