Top tips for moving at Christmas

Whether you're a seasoned mover or it's your first time, relocating to a new house is an extremely exciting process – even if there happen to be a couple of bumps along the way.

As you approach the final steps, everything will start snowballing.

So, given that the year we've had has added even more unknowns to the mix, we wanted to let you know what you should expect from a Christmas move in 2020.

Hopefully, with the use of our simple steps, you'll find the experience more manageable with fewer surprises.

Keep track of the forecast 

Winter weather is notoriously unpredictable, and with the constant possibility we'll see snow, ice and heavy rain, it is important to check the forecast before the big day so you can adapt accordingly.

Enlisting the help of a removal firm could provide some peace of mind, as the additional support will shoulder some of the responsibility of transporting your belongings to your new home safely.

However, with the industry facing high demand, you might find it more challenging than usual to book for a time and date to suit your plans – especially during peak periods, like weekends.

It's also worth considering that you'll need to comply to social distancing measures, with restrictions on the help you can get from members not within your immediate bubble.

Be organised with boxes

One of the main causes of stress during the moving process is delegating which boxes to put in which room, as we're all familiar with losing key essentials until the last box has been unpacked.

A simple label or colour coding system can completely remove this stress – just remember to be specific.

Similarly, ensuring that you start packaging up your items with plenty of time to spare, and using packing materials such as bubble wrap, will make the whole experience seem seamless.

Notify everyone of your new address

With COVID-19 meaning the majority of us will be turning to online stores to purchase gifts this festive season, ensuring you change your delivery address in plenty of time will ensure you’re not chasing your parcels from one collection point to another.

Likewise, you may want to think about using the Royal Mail's redirect service, as you could lose track of letters, cards and gifts arriving to your previous address. 

Inform your utility providers

As the colder weather hits, there is nothing more comforting than a hot chocolate or seasonal mulled wine by the fire.

To make sure this is still a possibility in your new home, remember to take meter readings and inform your providers that you are moving.

Depending on demand, your providers could take a couple of weeks to make the transition over, so informing them early on will mean you can step into a home that's set up and ready to go from the day you get your keys.

Prepare your household

For households with children and pets, you might find that a change of routine or surroundings can be stressful.

This impact can be lessened by pre-packing a box of essentials containing forms of entertainment, such as books or games for children, and your pets’ bed and favourite toys.

Before moving, it's essential you have updated the relevant identification tags or microchips for your cat and / or dog. Should they go missing in their new neighbourhood, this will help you to reunite with them that much sooner. 

Enjoy!

Once all the hard work unpacking has been done, or you’ve had enough for the day – we won’t judge – it’s important to take stock and give yourself time to process and unwind.

This is a great time to get the board games or cheesy Christmas films out and spend time with the family, you’ve earned it!

To see what properties we've brought to market this winter, visit our website.