Checklist: during the move

During our move a lot is coming your way. These are busy times in which a lot needs to be arranged to make the transition to your new home go smoothly. To prevent stress and to make sure that you do not overlook important things, it can help to make a checklist in advance with the most important points of attention.

Completing the preparatory phase

After the most important administrative and practical matters have been dealt with in the preparatory phase, such as informing important parties, making appointments with the new residents of your old house and arranging a van and/or removal company, moving day will come closer than you might initially think. However, there are still a few preparatory actions that need to be completed just before the actual moving day. View this short checklist or our extended checklist. A checklist:

• Defrosting and cleaning the refrigerator.
• Place the filled freezer on the coldest setting.
• Dismantling and preparing the furniture for moving.
• A (parking) spot for the moving van to reserve.
• Packing the very last things.
• Securing/protecting the computer's hard drive.
• Labeling the moving boxes so that you can find everything again easily and in no time after arriving at your new home.

Moving boxes

Although the number you need depends on the size of your belongings, an average family of four will need thirty to forty moving boxes needed to transport all your belongings. Moving boxes with a high load-bearing capacity are the best and safest option. Depending on the size, a moving box costs one to two euros. In addition to the moving boxes, you will most likely also need wrapping paper and foam or bubble wrap to provide extra protection for the objects to be transported. Special storage and moving blankets can provide a solution for protecting furniture. For a large move, you will quickly need fifteen to twenty moving blankets.

The actual move

After all the preparatory work, it is time for the moment suprême: the day that everything has to be transferred to the new house. Getting up on time prevents stress and ensures that you start the job in a relaxed way. Although most of the stuff will have been packed by now, it is important to first fill the last boxes and check all the rooms one more time for items left behind. That way you know for sure that nothing important is left behind.

Checklist for moving

To avoid unpleasant surprises, it is useful to have a checklist to make a note of the most important points of attention for the moving day itself.

• Try to pack keys, important documents, cards and money together in one bundle as much as possible. Tie the package together with a string and preferably put it safely away in your hand luggage.
• Take down the curtains in the bedroom(s).
• Carry spare fuses for electrical equipment in your hand luggage.
• Turn off the gas and water supplies.
• Record your meter readings to ensure you are not paying too much or too little on your final bill.
• Make sure that all windows and doors of the old house are closed tightly when you leave.
• Cover your furniture with moving blankets to protect it during transport.
• Use a hand truck and/or furniture dolly to move heavy items such as the refrigerator, washing machine, or boxes.
• Secure your belongings in the van with tension straps to prevent them from shifting while driving.
• Don't forget to also bring a toolbox for, among other things, assembling and disassembling furniture.
• Drain the water supply if the move takes place during the winter months.

Also read our tips about a moving refrigerator!