Removals
Introduction
Moving house can feel like a big task, but with the right preparation and tips, it doesn't have to be stressful.
We've put together this simple guide to help make your move as smooth as possible, from packing up your home to choosing the right van size.
Packing Tips for a Stress-Free Move
Before You Start Packing
Plan Ahead
Take time to decide what to pack and what to leave behind.
Start with rooms you use the least, such as the attic, loft or spare bedroom, and work your way through the house.
Label boxes with the room they belong to. It will save valuable time when unpacking.
Gather Supplies
Estimate how many boxes you'll need before you begin.
Most people underestimate how much packing material they require, so stock up on:
Boxes in various sizes
Packing tape
Bubble wrap
Packing paper
Marker pens
Declutter as You Go
Moving house is the perfect opportunity to clear out unwanted items.
Create separate piles for:
Donations
Recycling
Selling
Disposal
Reducing clutter before moving will save time, money and effort.
Pack a First-Day Box
Pack essential items into a clearly marked box that stays with you during the move.
Include items such as:
Toiletries
Phone chargers
Medication
A change of clothes
Tea and coffee supplies
This ensures you'll have immediate access to the things you need when you arrive at your new home.
Packing Hacks
Label Cables
Worried about losing track of device wires?
Wrap masking tape around each cable and write down which appliance it belongs to.
Keep Cables Organised
Avoid tangled wires by using:
Rubber bands
Zip ties
Toilet roll tubes
These simple solutions help keep everything neat and easy to reconnect.
Pack Heavy Items Correctly
Books and other heavy belongings should be packed in smaller boxes.
Always:
Label heavy boxes clearly.
Place heavier boxes at the bottom of stacks.
Avoid overloading large boxes.
Protect Toiletries and Cosmetics
Prevent leaks by covering bottle openings with cling film before replacing lids.
For powder makeup, place a cotton pad inside the container to help prevent cracking during transit.
Moving Clothes on Hangers
Keep life simple by sliding hanging clothes directly into bin bags.
Tie hangers together using string and transport them without removing them from their hangers.
Protect Rugs and Carpets
Roll rugs tightly, secure them with rope and cover the ends to help keep them clean during transport.
Packing Fragile Items
Plates and Glassware
Wrap dishes individually and pack them vertically, like records, rather than stacking them flat.
Place newspaper or packing paper between pots and pans for additional protection.
Artwork and Mirrors
Wrap artwork and mirrors using paper or bubble wrap.
For mirrors, place an X-shaped strip of packing tape across the glass to help reduce the risk of cracks if damaged.
Where possible, use specialist mirror boxes for additional protection.
Electronics
Before packing computers and electronic devices:
Back up important files.
Label all cables.
Use extra cushioning around delicate components.
Furniture and Appliances
Furniture
Keep screws, bolts and fittings in labelled bags.
Tape the bags directly to the furniture they belong to so nothing gets lost during the move.
Protect exposed arms, legs and corners with bubble wrap.
Fridges and Freezers
Defrost and drain appliances several hours before moving.
Secure doors shut before transportation.
Washing Machines
Disconnect carefully and secure hoses before transport.
If you're unsure how to disconnect an appliance safely, seek professional guidance.
What Size Van Do You Need?
Choosing the right van size can make all the difference.
Medium Wheelbase Transit (MWB)
Capacity
Up to 30 medium-sized boxes.
Ideal For
Shed clearances
Small moves
Boxes and smaller furniture items
Long Wheelbase Transit (LWB)
Capacity
Approximately 20 boxes plus larger items such as:
Fridge freezer
Two-seater sofa
Bed
Ideal For
Furnished flats
Small garage clearances
3.5 Tonne Luton Van
Capacity
20–25 boxes plus larger furniture including:
Dining table
Double bed
Usually includes a tail lift for easier loading.
Ideal For
One-bedroom properties
Two-bedroom properties
7.5 Tonne Luton Box Van
Capacity
Contents of a three-bedroom house, including:
50+ boxes
Sofas
Beds
Larger furniture items
Ideal For
Larger family home moves.
Top Tip
Always overestimate the amount of space you'll need.
Items such as sofas, mattresses and wardrobes can be difficult to stack efficiently.
Why Moving Insurance Matters
Accidents can happen during a move.
Moving insurance helps protect your belongings while they are being transported, whether it's a television, antique furniture or a treasured family heirloom.
Understanding the type of cover available can help prevent unexpected costs if something is damaged or lost.
Types of Moving Insurance
Complete Value Protection
Provides cover for loss, damage and breakage, often subject to minimum coverage requirements.
Assessed Value Coverage
Coverage is based on the value of individual items.
More valuable items receive greater protection.
Weight-Assessed Coverage
Often used for international or freight moves.
Compensation is calculated according to the shipment's weight.
Check Your Removal Company's Insurance
Most removal companies have insurance in place, but it's important to understand exactly what is covered.
Public Liability Insurance
Protects your property from accidental damage caused during the move, such as:
Scratched flooring
Damaged walls
Accidental property damage
Goods in Transit Insurance
Provides cover for belongings while they are being transported.
Be aware that claim limits and excess fees may apply.
CMR Insurance
Required for many European moves and cross-border transportation.
Consider Third-Party Insurance
If you're concerned that your removal company's cover may not be sufficient, you can purchase separate moving insurance.
Many providers offer comprehensive policies covering loss, theft and accidental damage.
Always read policy details carefully before purchasing.
More Moving Tips
Declutter
Less is more when moving home.
Go through your belongings and remove anything you no longer need.
Benefits include:
Less packing
Lower moving costs
Faster unpacking
Notify Utilities and Services
Contact your utility providers at least 48 hours before moving.
Remember to update:
Water supplier
Electricity provider
Gas supplier
Broadband provider
Telephone provider
Also update your address with:
Your bank
Car insurance provider
Doctor's surgery
Subscription services
Send Change of Address Notifications
A simple email, social media post or message can save money on postage and quickly notify family and friends of your new address.
Traditional change-of-address cards remain a popular option too.
Plan for Pets
Moving day can be stressful for pets.
Consider arranging:
A pet sitter
Kennel accommodation
A cattery
This can help keep them safe and reduce anxiety during the move.
Start Packing Early
Pack non-essential items weeks before moving day.
Items such as books, decorations and out-of-season clothing can be packed early to reduce last-minute pressure.
Prepare Your Fridge and Freezer
Try to use up frozen food before moving.
Defrost your fridge and freezer a couple of days before moving day to avoid leaks and water damage.
Keep Valuables Close
Important items should always remain with you, including:
Passports
Jewellery
Driving licences
Important paperwork
Keeping valuables nearby provides additional peace of mind.
Leave Helpful Notes
If you're selling your property, consider leaving useful information for the new owners, such as:
Central heating instructions
Fuse box location
Bin collection schedules
Alarm information
Small gestures can make a big difference.
Final Message From The Team
Moving house can be stress-free with the right preparation and tools.
Start by planning ahead, decluttering, and gathering supplies like boxes, tape, and bubble wrap. Smart packing methods, such as labelling cables, securing fragile items, and packing heavy objects in small boxes, can save time and effort.
Choosing the right van size is crucial, from a medium wheelbase for small moves to a 7.5-tonne van for larger households.
Don’t forget moving insurance to protect your belongings, and notify utilities and services about your move.
Keep essentials like valuables or a ‘first-day’ box close at hand, and welcome the new owners with helpful notes.
Want a recommendation for a local removals company? Ask the Sheldon Bosley Knight team.
Got any ideas on how we can improve this guide?
Please share them with us at marketing@sheldonbosleyknight.co.uk.
Disclaimer:
The information in this guide is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, mortgage, tax, or professional advice.
While we aim to keep the information accurate and up to date, Sheldon Bosley Knight Limited makes no guarantees or warranties regarding its accuracy or completeness.
You should always seek advice from a qualified solicitor, financial adviser, mortgage broker, accountant, or other relevant professional before making any decisions based on this information.
Sheldon Bosley Knight Limited accepts no liability for any loss or damage arising from reliance on this guide.