How to prepare for a move? A step-by-step guide

A move means a lot of decisions in a short time. Good organisation keeps everything running smoothly and without stress. We've gathered practical tips from our own jobs to help you get through it calmly.

Start with a plan and a date

Set the moving date in advance, ideally 2-3 weeks ahead. If you're moving at the end of the month, book the crew early — that's the busiest time. Make a simple list of rooms and decide what's coming with you and what you're getting rid of.

Get rid of what you don't need

A move is the best moment for a clear-out. The less you take, the cheaper and faster it is. Anything you don't want we can take away for disposal at the same time, so you don't have to deal with it separately.

Sort out boxes and materials

Start packing with things you don't use day to day: books, seasonal clothes, decorations. Boxes mustn't be too heavy — pack books into small ones. If you need boxes, film or tape, we have them at wholesale prices and can deliver them or pack everything for you.

Label the boxes

Label boxes on the side (not the top — once they're stacked you can't see it), with the room name and a rough description of the contents. Mark boxes with fragile items clearly. This saves a great deal of time when unpacking.

Protect fragile items

Wrap glass, plates and electronics individually in bubble wrap. Stand plates upright in the box rather than flat — they crack less often that way. Furniture and larger equipment we protect with blankets and film on site; that's part of our service.

Get the flat ready for moving day

Arrange a parking space as close to the entrance as possible — it speeds up loading. Protect whatever is staying behind. Pack a separate "first-night box": documents, chargers, medicines, something to drink, so it's to hand at the new place.

We have every packing material you need

No need to hunt around shops for protective materials. We stock a full range for safe packing at wholesale prices, so cheaper than in a shop. We can deliver them to your address or pack your things with them straight away:

• Stretch filmfor wrapping furniture, drawers and anything that mustn't come open in transit
• Bubble wrapfor glass, china, electronics and anything fragile
• Packing tapefor sealing boxes securely
• Protective blankets and securing strapsprotecting furniture and securing the load in the van
• Boxes in various sizesplus filling material that protects the contents of boxes

That way you can be sure everything is packed properly, without improvising or buying extras at the last minute.