Moving day is the culmination of weeks of planning. Here's how to get through it smoothly, calmly and without anything going wrong.
Defrost your fridge and freezer (24 hours minimum). Drain your washing machine completely. Disassemble all bed frames and wardrobes — keep fixings in labelled bags taped to the item. Pack your 'moving day kit' and set an alarm 30 minutes earlier than you think you need.
Get up early. Eat a proper breakfast — moving is physical work and you'll need the energy. Brief your removal team on arrival: walk them through the property, explain what's going in the van, and show them anything fragile.
Do a final walkthrough of every room, cupboard, drawer, loft hatch, garden shed and outdoor space. It's astonishing how many things get left behind. Take meter readings at the old property and photograph them.
Arrive before the van if possible. Confirm access route, parking position and which entrance to use. Put beds together first so you have somewhere to sleep. Set up the kitchen second — you'll need the kettle within the hour.
Don't try to unpack everything on day one. Set up beds, get the bathroom functional and find the kettle. Order a takeaway. Sit on your sofa with a cup of tea and give yourself a moment to appreciate what you've accomplished.