How to Prepare for a House Move in Essex – A Step-by-Step Guide
Are you planning a house move in Essex?
Moving house is often regarded as a stressful process.
However, planning your house move in Essex carefully, step by step, can significantly reduce this stress and ensure a smoother transition to your new home.
As experienced movers operating across Essex, the GoodMove team have put together this clear guide, packed full of expert tips and local insights to help you prepare perfectly for your upcoming move.
Table of Contents
Step 1: Confirm Your Moving Date and Book a Removals Company Early
Firstly, set your moving date as soon as possible. Weekends, bank holidays, and school breaks are hectic times in Essex, so booking early ensures you get your preferred date.
When searching for house removals in Essex, always opt for a reputable company like GoodMove, which is accredited by the British Association of Removers (BAR).
This guarantees you receive professional, trustworthy, and insured services.
Why Choose GoodMove for Your Essex Removal?
- Fully BAR accredited
- Over 35 years’ removals experience in Essex
- Reliable packing and storage services
- Transparent quotes with no hidden costs
- Experienced and friendly removals teams
Book your Essex removals survey now.
Step 2: Declutter Your Home Thoroughly
Reducing the items you take with you simplifies your Essex house move and lowers your moving costs.
Sort your belongings into three clear categories: keep, sell or donate, and dispose of or recycle.
Essex has numerous charity shops, recycling centres, and donation points (find Essex recycling centres here), making this step straightforward.
Step 3: Organise Packing Materials
Next, gather essential packing supplies at least four weeks before your moving day:
- Strong removal boxes
- Bubble wrap and packing paper
- Strong tape and tape dispensers
- Labels and permanent markers
You can source materials from DIY shops or your removals company.
GoodMove also offers a professional packing service, utilising high-quality materials to simplify the process.
Step 4: Start Packing Non-Essential Items
Begin packing around three weeks before your Essex move, starting with items you use least frequently:
- Books and seasonal clothing
- Attic, basement, and garage contents
- Decorative items, ornaments, and non-essential kitchen items
Clearly label each box by room to make unpacking easier.
Step 5: Notify Utility Providers and Essential Services
Two weeks ahead, notify relevant services about your upcoming move:
- Gas and electricity (British Gas)
- Water (Essex & Suffolk Water)
- Council tax (Find your Essex council here)
- Internet providers
- Your bank, GP, and insurance companies
Arrange for final meter readings and forwarding of bills to avoid complications after the move.
Step 6: Set Up Royal Mail Redirection
Use Royal Mail’s redirection service to ensure important letters reach your new address.
Aim to set this up at least two weeks ahead.
Step 7: Organise an Essentials Box
One week before moving, pack a clearly marked essentials box containing:
- Important paperwork and documents
- Basic toiletries, medication, and phone chargers
- Snacks, kettle, tea and coffee
- Basic cleaning supplies
Keep this box accessible throughout moving day.
Step 8: Plan for Children and Pets
Moving day can be hectic for kids and pets.
Plan by arranging childcare or pet care to keep your moving day stress-free.
Essex offers reputable kennels and catteries if overnight care is needed.
Step 9: Confirm Arrangements with GoodMove
Contact your GoodMove coordinator a few days before moving to reconfirm arrangements and raise any last-minute questions.
Step 10: Conduct a Final Check on Moving Day
On moving day, do a thorough walkthrough before handing keys to the new owner or landlord:
- Check all cupboards, drawers, garages and sheds
- Record meter readings
- Ensure windows and doors are secured
Settling into Your Essex Home
Once you’ve moved, use your essentials box immediately. Prioritise setting up beds, utilities, and necessary facilities.
Take your time to enjoy your new Essex neighbourhood—explore local parks, amenities, and shops to feel at home quickly.
GoodMove: Essex’s Trusted Removals Company
GoodMove has been helping people move home smoothly in Essex for over 35 years, ensuring each step of the move is as stress-free as possible.
- BAR Accredited Removals Experts
- Local Essex Knowledge
- Comprehensive Packing & Storage Solutions
Whether you’re moving to Chelmsford, Colchester, Southend, or anywhere in Essex, GoodMove can manage the heavy lifting.
Ready to book your house move in Essex?
Contact GoodMove today for your free removals quote.