Before the van arrives
Get the practical basics done early so loading can start the moment the van pulls up.
- Beds and large tables dismantled, fixings bagged and taped
- Boxes labelled by room and stacked near the front door
- Essentials box set aside to load last
- Parking space kept clear and doors propped
During loading
Stay reachable and keep the hallway clear. Point out anything fragile or sentimental before it is picked up rather than after.
- Flag fragile and high-value items explicitly
- Keep pets and small children out of the carry route
- Do a final sweep of loft, shed, garden and under stairs
Before you leave the old place
Take meter readings and photos of every room once empty — it settles deposit and utility questions later. Check every window and door is locked and hand keys over as agreed.