Moving home is one of life’s biggest projects. Between packing, cleaning, paperwork, and logistics, it’s easy to miss a few key steps along the way. This guide breaks down everything you need to do before, during, and after your move — whether you’re moving across Manchester or to another part of the UK.
1. Plan Your Move Early
The earlier you start planning, the smoother your move will be. Ideally, give yourself at least six weeks to get organised, especially if you’re booking removals or arranging storage.
Start by confirming your moving date, then book key services in advance such as removals, storage, or van hire. If you’re not sure where to start, Cheap Storage Manchester offers free collections and removals and free van hire to make the process easier.
Tasks to complete early:
- Confirm your move-in and move-out dates
- Notify your landlord or solicitor
- Book a removals company or van hire
- Arrange time off work if needed
- Gather quotes for moving insurance
- Consider temporary home storage if there’s a gap between properties
2. Declutter Before You Pack
Moving is the perfect time to declutter. The less you take with you, the less you’ll need to pack, move, and unpack.
Sort through each room and separate your belongings into categories: keep, donate, sell, or store. If you’re not ready to part with certain items, consider using self storage to give yourself breathing space.
Check out our decluttering guide to help you decide what’s worth keeping.
Quick decluttering wins:
- Old clothes or shoes you haven’t worn in a year
- Unused kitchen gadgets or duplicate utensils
- Furniture that doesn’t fit your new space
- Seasonal items or sports gear (try sports equipment storage)
- Sentimental items you want to keep safe in secure storage
3. Organise Packing Supplies
Good packing starts with the right materials. You’ll need sturdy boxes, tape, markers, and protective wrapping. Buying these separately can add up, so look for deals or services that include packing materials.
If you’re storing items, Cheap Storage Manchester provides free packing boxes with every unit.
Packing checklist:
- Strong cardboard boxes in multiple sizes
- Bubble wrap or packing paper
- Stretch wrap for furniture
- Labels and coloured markers
- Heavy-duty tape
- Scissors or box cutters
Label boxes clearly by room and contents. Write on the sides, not the top, so you can see labels when boxes are stacked.
4. Notify Utilities and Services
One of the easiest things to forget during a move is updating your address. Make a list of everyone who needs to know your new location.
Who to notify:
- Energy, water, and broadband suppliers
- TV licence and council tax offices
- Banks and insurance providers
- DVLA (for your driving licence and vehicle logbook)
- HMRC and any benefits agencies
- GP, dentist, and other medical professionals
- Subscriptions and online deliveries
If you’re moving within Manchester, check if your new area falls under a different local authority to ensure your council tax is updated correctly.
5. Pack Room by Room
Packing room by room helps you stay organised and reduces stress on moving day.
Start with non-essential areas such as spare rooms and storage cupboards, then move to daily-use areas closer to the moving date.
Room-by-room priorities:
- Bedroom: Clothes, bedding, and personal items
- Kitchen: Pack dishes, glassware, and appliances last
- Living room: Wrap fragile decor carefully
- Bathroom: Leave toiletries out until moving day
- Garage or shed: Secure sharp or heavy tools in sturdy boxes
Need somewhere to keep furniture or boxes temporarily? See our furniture storage options.
6. Moving Day Essentials
Keep a box or bag of essentials separate from everything else. This ensures you have what you need immediately when you arrive at your new home.
Essentials box:
- Kettle, mugs, and tea or coffee
- Phone chargers and extension leads
- Bedding for the first night
- Basic cleaning products
- Important documents
- Snacks and bottled water
If your moving date is delayed, Cheap Storage Manchester can hold your items safely until your new home is ready. Learn more about our no deposit storage and 50% off your first 9 weeks.
7. Clean and Check Before You Leave
Before handing over keys, give your old home a thorough clean and check every cupboard, drawer, and storage space. This helps secure your deposit if you’re renting and prevents forgotten items.
Checklist before leaving:
- Empty bins and clean all surfaces
- Defrost and wipe down the fridge
- Sweep and vacuum every room
- Check lofts, sheds, and garages
- Photograph the property for records
- Return all keys to your landlord or estate agent
If you find items you can’t take, consider short-term storage at our home storage facility until you’re settled.
8. Settle into Your New Home
Once you’ve moved in, take time to unpack gradually and set up key rooms first. Focus on getting your essentials in order before worrying about decor.
Top priorities after moving in:
- Check utilities are working correctly
- Update your address on important accounts
- Register to vote at your new address
- Locate the fuse box, stopcock, and boiler
- Introduce yourself to neighbours
- Explore local services and shops
If you’ve relocated to Manchester, you’ll find great local amenities nearby — from Manchester Arndale for shopping to Heaton Park for green space.
9. How Self Storage Can Simplify Your Move
Whether you’re between homes, downsizing, or waiting for completion, storage can take the pressure off. It’s a safe, secure way to store furniture and personal belongings while you focus on the move itself.
At Cheap Storage Manchester, we offer:
- Free collections and removals
- No deposit options
- Open 7 days a week access
- Safe and secure units monitored 24/7
- Cheapest storage prices in Manchester
Find the right size unit for your move using our storage prices page.
10. Final Thoughts
Moving home doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With careful planning, early organisation, and the right support, it can be an exciting fresh start.
If you’re planning a move in Manchester or anywhere across the UK, Cheap Storage Manchester can help you store, transport, and protect your belongings every step of the way.
Find out more about our moving home storage solutions or get in touch through our contact page to speak with our team today.
