Packing and Moving help
Moving day, for many, can often come too soon. The biggest challenge of a move is there are so many loose ends to tie up, it can be easy to lose track. Before you know it, the movers are pulled up outside your home and you still have half the house to pack up!
This is why we have compiled this comprehensive guide to help ensure that you tick all the most important boxes on your list of to-dos.
Remember: Storage King is the go-to source for packing and moving help, self storage needs and professional advice from industry experts. We are always ready to lend a hand at a store near you.
Packing and moving help
Our step-by-step guide for self storage packing and moving is an essential checklist of the key steps to take when you are going to move. In our guide below we will also include a few tips on the best way to pack and move belongings into self storage.
3 months before the move
- Start decluttering your home by sorting through each room and deciding what to keep, donate, sell or store.
- Gather essential packing supplies, such as boxes, tape, bubble wrap and labels.
- If you're in rented accommodation, notify your landlord about your move.
- If you have children, ensure any school transfers (if applicable) are arranged.
2 months before the move
- Begin packing non-essential items such as seasonal clothing, books, and decorations. Clearly label each box and place them in your storage unit.
- If hiring professional movers or simply using a van rental service, request quotes and schedule them as early as possible.
- Make a list of important tasks, including updating your address and informing service providers of your move.
1 month before the move
- Confirm all moving arrangements, including transport and any extra help for moving day.
- Start informing important contacts on your task list, such as your bank, local council and insurers of your change of address. Don’t forget about friends, online retailers, subscriptions and utilities.
- If moving to a new area, register with local doctors and dentists, and arrange for internet, phone and TV services at your new home.
2 weeks before the move
- Start packing everyday items, leaving out only what you need for the remaining days. Label boxes by room to make unpacking easier.
- Organise mail redirection, request annual leave for moving day and arrange childcare if necessary.
- Pack up items that are used less frequently, such as guest bedrooms or storage closets.
- Store large furniture in your storage unit to free up space in your home.
- Disassemble larger items like beds and tables to make them easier to transport.
Pro tip: Self storage doesn’t need to be booked weeks in advance, remember this when you need urgent or unexpected storage. Learn more about Storage King’s range of units by visiting our size estimator page.
1 Week before the move
- Confirm your arrangements with movers or van rental services.
- If using self-storage, finalise which items will stay in the unit and which will be moved to your new home.
- Contact your solicitor and estate agent to ensure everything is on track and arrange a day to collect your keys for your new place.
- Finish packing and start packing your clothes in suitcases.
- Ensure there will be parking available for the moving van and remind friends or family that you’ll need help on the day.
The day before the move
- Pack a moving essentials box with items like toiletries, clothes, important documents and chargers. Be sure to bring any personal documents and valuables with you and store them safely.
- Ensure your mobile phone is fully charged.
- Call your removal company to confirm their estimated arrival time.
- Move all boxes to a central location for easier access during the move and double-check that everything is clearly labelled.
- A few days prior, empty your fridge and defrost the freezer.
- Get a good night’s sleep to be fully prepared for the big day.
The Day of the Move
- Load the moving truck efficiently, starting with the heaviest and bulkiest items on the bottom to avoid damaging lighter boxes.
- Do one final check of your home to make sure nothing is left behind.
- Leave the keys in the agreed-upon location for the new owner.
- If using a storage unit for items you won’t need immediately, drop them off before heading to your new home.
- Unpack essential items first and take your time settling into your new space.
Contact us
Get in touch with us and see how we make a huge difference to the logistics of any move. With years of experience, we support our customers through every stage of their relocation, even the most challenging ones.
Need self storage, advice or just have a query? Call our team. If you want to learn more about our storage options or want to book a space, simply get your free quote today!