A guide to moving home

Moving home is one of the most stressful things people do. We offer advice on how to make it easier, quicker and less expensive.

This guide gives you a host of handy hints and tips that will make moving more bearable:

Whom do I need to inform about my move?

A commonly overlooked part of any moving preparations is informing everyone of your move.

You will need to tell everyone your new address from your bank and building society to the milkman that delivers your milk every morning. Advanced planning and notification should minimise any day-to-day disruptions and confusion. Make sure contracts are exchanged before you start to notify people of your new address.

To make sure that no one gets missed of the list, we have prepared a check list of individuals and institutions that need to be informed:

Check-list - People to inform of new address

 Using a professional moving company

If you're moving a long distance with a lot of belongings to transport, or simply want a stress free move, then it might be a better option to leave the job to the professionals.

Like with all tradesman, recommendations from other people can be invaluable. Ask friends and family whom have moved recently and for removal companies they have used. Alternatively, use a company that is a member of the British Association of Removers.

It is always best to obtain quotes from at least three different companies. Most reputable companies will usually visit you to check your belongings and asses what is involved. Alternatively, write a list of items and jobs for them to quote against.

A common cause of distress and heartache is when something is broken or damaged during transit. Before you contract any removal service, check their insurance cover and clarify whether the quote includes insurance for damages. It is always worth remembering that some items may be covered by your home insurance policy for cover of goods in transit. If in doubt check what is covered by your policy.

A good removal company is a busy one, so book well in advance - at least two weeks and confirm with a fax or letter.

A DIY guide to moving

You could always do it yourself? This could be a way of making some cost savings, but there are a few things to consider. Hiring a van is quite straight forward and it is best to come some rental companies for quotes. All you need us a driving license however, check with the rental company whether your agreement includes unlimited mileage. If it doesn't, then you may end up paying a lot more money than you initially estimated for long distances.

Breakages and house moves usually go hand-in-hand, so make sure your home insurance covers you for any items that may be damaged during the move.

Finally, ask family and friends to help out on the day of the move - an extra pair of hands will always be welcome.

Where do I start with the packing?

A collection of newspapers, tissue paper, boxes, wrapping (bubble wrap) will prove invaluable when starting to pack. Make sure all boxes are labelled which way is up, the room the box is intended for and fragile for delicate items - this helps your removers and you. For really delicate items take them with you in the car. Don't put too many items into a single box as this will make it heavy and difficult to handle.

Pack a box of essentials to take with you - this could include a kettle, tea/coffee, milk, snacks, toilet paper, torch, spare bulbs, sharp knife, and a screwdriver and have this ready in the kitchen at the house you are moving in to. You will realise how important this is on the day of the move!

Put any important documents - such as you passport, birth certificate and driving license in a safe place.

If you have young children make sure they have something to do and somewhere safe to stay while you move.

Good luck with the move!