Checklist before moving

• Decide on a moving date and make a simple room-by-room plan (what goes with you, what can be packed early).
• Book a moving company or moving truck. Make sure you agree on dates, times, scope, and any add-ons (carrying help, assembly, packing).
• Inventory bulky and fragile items (e.g. TV, mirrors, art, glass) and plan packing materials and handling.
• Start decluttering early: sell, donate, or discard items you don’t want to move.

• Get moving boxes and packing materials well in advance.
• Start packing items you use less frequently (storage, books, seasonal clothes).
• Pack and label by room so each box has a clear “home” immediately upon move-in.

How to label boxes so everything ends up in the right place

Write on at least two sides of each box (so it’s visible when boxes are stacked).

• Always write: ROOM + BRIEF CONTENT + FRAGILE/THIS SIDE UP when needed Example: “KITCHEN – glass – FRAGILE” or “BEDROOM – bedding”
• Number by room: Kitchen 1/8, Kitchen 2/8 so you can see if anything is missing
• Mark 2–3 boxes as: OPEN FIRST Example: “OPEN FIRST – KITCHEN” and “OPEN FIRST – BATHROOM”
• Collect screws/fittings in labeled bags and place them in a dedicated “assembly box”.

• Submit a change-of-address notice in good time (or at the latest one week after moving) so you’re registered correctly.
• Order mail forwarding if you want your mail redirected for a period.
• Review your home insurance so it covers the correct residence from the right date.
• Move or sign electricity contracts and review which agreements are affected (internet, TV, parking, storage).
• Plan cleaning: do it yourself or book move-out cleaning. Check what’s required in your agreement.
• If you have children: plan school or preschool changes well in advance.

• Defrost the freezer and empty the fridge in time. Prepare suitable transport for chilled items.
• Pack a “first-night” bag/box (see below).
• Charge phones and power banks. Keep chargers easily accessible.
• Prepare tools and basic supplies (tape, scissors/knife, trash bags).
• Place keys, contracts, and important documents in a separate pouch/bag that is never left unattended.

• Assign responsibilities: one person keeps track of keys, timing, and the checklist.
• Protect floors, corners, and stairwells as needed. Keep walkways clear.
• Load heaviest items first, and secure fragile items clearly and safely.
• Place boxes directly in the correct rooms in the new home to save time.
• Photograph the condition of the home upon move-out, especially if you’re renting.
• Record meter readings if relevant and save photos.

• Check functionality: water, drainage, outlets, lighting, and appliances.
• Photograph any issues immediately and document them in writing.
• Prioritize unpacking the bedroom and kitchen first to get daily life running.

• Update your address with parties that don’t always follow official registration: bank, employer, healthcare providers, subscriptions, associations, and e-commerce.
• Review fire safety: smoke alarms, fire blanket, and fire extinguisher based on the home’s conditions.
• Create a simple plan for the remaining unpacking so boxes don’t linger for months.