Planning and preparation: The key to a smooth international move

A successful move starts long before moving day, and planning is everything. The more organised you are in the weeks and months leading up to your move, the easier the whole experience will be. This section covers the essential steps to get you fully prepared.

Creating a moving checklist and timeline

Moving is a big job, but breaking it down into smaller, manageable tasks can make it feel far less daunting. A checklist is your best friend here.

Eight weeks before moving day

• Confirm your moving date: Contact your real estate agent or landlord to confirm the exact date you’ll be moving out of your current home and into your new one.
• Declutter your home: Go through each room and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or discard. This will not only reduce the volume of items you need to move but also save you time and money.
• Research removal companies and start gathering quotes: Look for companies with experience in international moves, and check online reviews to see what other customers have to say. Get quotes from several companies to compare prices and services.
• Make a folder (or start a digital one) to keep all moving-related paperwork in one place: This will help you stay organised and avoid losing important documents.

Four weeks before

• Book your chosen removal company: Once you’ve compared quotes and found a company you’re happy with, book them as soon as possible, especially if you’re moving during a busy period.
• Start packing non-essential items: This could include things like books, seasonal clothes, or ornaments.
• Notify your landlord if you’re renting: Give them the required notice that you’ll be moving out.
• Arrange time off work for moving day if needed: Check with your employer if you need to book any time off for the move.

Two weeks before

• Confirm all the details with your removal team: This includes confirming the date and time of your move, as well as any special requirements you may have.
• Set up your Royal Mail redirection to avoid missing any important post: This will ensure that any mail sent to your old address is forwarded to your new one.
• Begin notifying service providers of your move: This includes gas, electricity, and water suppliers, broadband and TV providers, banks, insurance companies, and any subscription services you use.

One week before

• Finish the bulk of your packing, leaving out essentials: This will make moving day much less stressful.
• Dismantle any large furniture that won’t fit through doorways: If you have any large pieces of furniture that need to be taken apart, do this in advance to save time on moving day.

Moving day

• Pack an essentials box: This should include things like toiletries, a change of clothes, phone chargers, and any important documents you might need.
• Take final meter readings for gas, electricity, and water: This will ensure that you’re only billed for the energy you’ve used.
• Check every room, cupboard, and loft—just in case: Do a final sweep of your home to make sure you haven’t forgotten anything.

Keeping a list like this means nothing gets missed, and you can tick off tasks as you go. Trust us, it’s a satisfying feeling!

Setting a moving budget

Moving abroad can be expensive. The costs add up quickly—flights, shipping, packing materials, deposits, cleaning, and more. It’s easy to underestimate what you’ll need, so setting a realistic budget early on is important.

Key costs to consider

• Flights: The cost of flights will vary depending on your destination and the time of year you’re travelling.
• Shipping costs: The cost of shipping your belongings will depend on the volume of goods you’re shipping and the shipping method you choose (e.g., sea freight, air freight).
• Packing materials: You’ll need to budget for boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and other packing materials.
• Insurance: It’s important to make sure your belongings are insured during the move.
• Visas and immigration fees: If you’re moving to a country that requires a visa, you’ll need to factor in the cost of the visa application.
• Deposits and rent: You’ll likely need to pay a deposit and the first month’s rent for your new home.
• Cleaning costs: You may need to pay for a professional clean of your old home, especially if you’re renting.
• Travel costs: If you’re moving a long distance, you’ll need to factor in the cost of travel to your new home.

Ways to save money

• Declutter before you pack: The less you take, the cheaper your move will be.
• Compare quotes from different removal companies: Don’t just go with the first quote you get.
• Consider part-load removals: If you’re flexible on dates, you can save money by sharing a container with other people.
• Pack your belongings yourself: If you’re on a tight budget, you can save money by packing your belongings yourself.
• Move during the off-season: Removal costs are often cheaper during the off-season.

Choosing a trusted removals company

Picking the right removals team is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. A professional company will handle your belongings with care, keep things running smoothly, and be there when you need them. Choose poorly, and you could be dealing with delays, damaged items, or—worse—no-shows.

Here’s what to look for when choosing a removals company

• Experience: Look for a company with a proven track record in both local and long-distance moves.
• Insurance: Check that your belongings will be covered in case of damage or loss.
• Reviews: Read what other customers say—genuine feedback is invaluable.
• Services offered: Some companies handle everything, from packing to storage, while others just provide transport. Choose what fits your needs best.

Questions to ask before booking

• What’s included in the quote?
• Do you offer packing services?
• Are there extra charges for delays or large items?

TMS provides fully managed removals, covering everything from packing to delivery. We also offer specialist services for antiques, pianos, and other valuable items.

Decluttering and downsizing before a move

Moving is the perfect opportunity to get rid of things you no longer need. The less you take, the easier—and often cheaper—your move will be.

Tips for decluttering

• Start early: Give yourself plenty of time to work through each room.
• Be realistic: If you haven’t used it in a year, do you really need it?
• Donate or sell: Good-quality items can be donated to charity or sold online.
• Don’t hold on ‘just in case’: Be honest with yourself—will you really need that extra toaster?

Letting go of things can feel hard, but it makes unpacking at the other end much easier.

Notifying important parties of your move

Moving brings a lot of changes, and it’s easy to forget about the admin side of things. But notifying the right people and organisations is crucial for a smooth transition. Missing a bill or important letter can cause issues down the line, so it’s best to be organised.

Here’s a quick checklist of who to inform:

• Utility providers: Gas, electricity, and water. Make sure to provide final meter readings to avoid any billing disputes.
• Communication services: Broadband, TV, and phone providers.
• Financial institutions: Banks, credit card companies, and insurance providers.
• Government agencies: HMRC, DVLA (if you drive), and the council tax office.
• Employer and pension provider: Make sure your employer has your new address for payroll and tax purposes.
• Healthcare providers: GP, dentist, and any other healthcare providers you see regularly.
• Subscriptions: Magazines, meal kits, streaming services, and any other regular deliveries.

Set up mail redirection with Royal Mail for at least three months to catch anything you’ve missed. This will give you peace of mind that you won’t miss any important mail during the transition.

Packing tips and essentials: Protect your belongings like a pro

Packing is often the most dreaded part of moving, but it doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With the right approach and a few clever strategies, you can pack your belongings safely and efficiently, ensuring they arrive at your new home in one piece.

Packing techniques that protect your belongings

Proper packing is your first line of defence against damage during the move. Here are some tried-and-tested techniques to keep your belongings safe:

• Use the right materials: Invest in sturdy boxes, quality packing tape, bubble wrap, and packing paper. Don’t skimp on quality – it will make a difference in protecting your belongings.
• Pack room by room: This keeps things organised and makes unpacking much easier. Label each box clearly with the room it belongs to and a brief description of the contents.
• Protect fragile items: Wrap delicate items individually with bubble wrap or packing paper. Plates and glassware should be packed vertically to reduce pressure. Use original boxes for electronics whenever possible.
• Don’t mix fragile and heavy items: Keep heavy items in their own boxes and fragile items separate to avoid damage.
• Fill gaps to prevent movement: Use packing peanuts, crumpled paper, or even towels to fill empty spaces in boxes and prevent items from shifting during transit.
• Seal and stack carefully: Tape the bottom and top of boxes securely, and reinforce any weak spots. Stack heavier boxes at the bottom and lighter ones on top.

The essentials box: What you need on moving day

Moving day can be long and tiring, and the last thing you want is to be rummaging through boxes for a phone charger or toothbrush. That’s where the essentials box comes in. It’s a lifesaver!

Pack a separate box with all the things you’ll need immediately upon arriving at your new home:

• Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, etc.
• Medications: Any prescription medications or over-the-counter remedies you take regularly.
• Phone charger: Keep your phone charged for essential communication.
• Basic cleaning supplies: Cleaning cloths, spray cleaner, and bin bags.
• Toilet paper: A necessity for your first bathroom break in the new place.
• Snacks and drinks: Moving is hungry work!
• Change of clothes: In case you get sweaty or dirty during the move.
• Important documents: Keep passports, visas, and other essential documents with you.

Keep this box with you, not in the moving van, so you have it as soon as you arrive. It will make a world of difference, even if you’re surrounded by unpacked boxes.

Moving day: What to expect and how to stay calm

Moving day is when everything you’ve planned comes together. It can be a smooth transition into a new home or a chaotic whirlwind of boxes, keys, and last-minute problems. But with the right approach, you can stay in control and make the moving day as stress-free as possible.

The morning of the move

• Get up early: Give yourself plenty of time to get ready and do a final check of your home.
• Have breakfast: Moving is tiring, and you’ll need energy for the day.
• Double-check everything is packed: Don’t leave cupboards half-full or items scattered around.
• Take final meter readings: Record gas, electricity, and water readings for accurate billing.
• Keep your essentials box handy: This should be easily accessible throughout the day.

When the movers arrive

• Walk them through the house: Point out fragile items or anything needing special care.
• Confirm the delivery address: Make sure they have the correct address for your new home.
• Provide clear parking instructions: Guide them to a suitable parking space for the van.

Before you leave your old home

• Do a final sweep: Check every room, cupboard, and the garden for any forgotten items.
• Lock windows and doors: Secure your old home before leaving.
• Take photos: If you’re renting, take photos of the property’s condition to avoid any disputes later.

When you arrive at your new home

• Check the property: Before the van is unloaded, inspect your new home for any damage or issues.
• Guide the movers: Direct them to place boxes in the right rooms to save time later.
• Take new meter readings: Record readings for gas, electricity, and water to ensure accurate billing.

Common moving day issues (and how to handle them)

Even the best-laid plans can hit a snag. Here are a few common moving day problems and how to fix them:

• Keys delayed: If there’s a delay in getting the keys to your new home, stay in touch with your estate agent and keep your removal team informed. Have snacks and drinks handy while you wait.
• Furniture doesn’t fit: If a piece of furniture won’t fit through a door, try removing legs or disassembling it if possible. Your removal team may have experience with this.
• Bad weather: If it’s raining or snowing, cover furniture and boxes with plastic sheets. Ask your removal team to lay floor coverings to protect carpets.
• Feeling overwhelmed: Moving day can be emotionally exhausting. Take breaks when needed, ask for help, and remember it’s okay if you don’t unpack everything on day one.

Settling in after the move: Making your new house feel like home

After weeks of planning, packing, and the big moving day, you’re finally in your new home. The hardest part is over, but now comes a different kind of challenge: turning this unfamiliar space into a place that truly feels like yours.

The first few days

The first few days in a new home can feel a little strange. You might even miss your old place at times, and that’s completely normal. Every home needs time to feel like yours.

Here are a few things you can do to help you settle in

• Unpack your essentials box first: This will give you access to the things you need to make yourself comfortable.
• Make your bed: There’s nothing like climbing into a freshly made bed after a long day of moving.
• Set up your bathroom: Unpack your towels, toiletries, and toilet roll so you can use the bathroom comfortably.
• Make a cup of tea or coffee: This will help you feel more at home.
• Order a takeaway: You’ll probably be too tired to cook, so order a takeaway and relax.
• Take a walk around your new neighbourhood: Get to know your surroundings and find your nearest shops, parks, and amenities.
• Introduce yourself to your neighbours: This is a great way to start making new friends.

Unpacking and getting organised

When you first walk through the door, it’s tempting to try and unpack everything at once. Resist that urge. You don’t need to get it all done in a day—rushing often leads to stress and things getting misplaced. Instead, focus on the essentials first, then work your way through the rest.

Start with the basics

• Beds: Get your beds assembled and made up as soon as possible. You’ll thank yourself later when you can fall straight into a proper bed after a long day.
• Bathroom: Unpack towels, toiletries, and toilet roll so you can use the bathroom comfortably.
• Kitchen essentials: You don’t need your full set of pots and pans on day one, but a kettle, mugs, cutlery, and a few plates will make a huge difference.

Tackle one room at a time

Avoid the temptation to open every box at once. You’ll end up with items scattered everywhere and feel more stressed. Instead, choose one room to complete first—often the kitchen or a child’s bedroom. Finish that room before moving on to the next. Break it into chunks—even small progress feels good.

Prioritise the spaces you use most

Focus on the rooms you’ll spend the most time in—usually the kitchen, living room, and bedrooms. Getting these functional will make daily life easier, even if the spare room is still full of boxes.

Deal with boxes gradually

It’s okay if you still have a few unpacked boxes after the first week. Aim to do a little each day, rather than trying to do everything in one exhausting go.

Don’t let clutter build up

As you unpack, you might realise you brought things you don’t need. Rather than cramming them into cupboards, set aside a donation pile and get rid of it as soon as possible. The less clutter, the quicker your new home will feel organised and spacious.

Setting up utilities and updating your address

Practical tasks like getting your utilities sorted and letting people know you’ve moved might not be exciting, but they’re essential. Getting these done quickly will prevent future headaches.

Take meter readings

As soon as you move in, take gas, electricity, and water readings. This protects you from being charged for the previous occupant’s usage.

Set up your accounts

Even if you’re sticking with the same providers, you need to register your new address. Contact your energy, water, and broadband suppliers as soon as possible.

Notify key organisations

Updating your address prevents missed bills and important post ending up with strangers. Key places to notify include:

• Banks and credit card providers
• HMRC
• Insurance companies (home, car, health)
• DVLA (driving licence and vehicle logbook)
• Council tax office
• GP and dentist
• Subscriptions and online shopping accounts (e.g., Amazon)

If you haven’t already, set up mail redirection with Royal Mail. It’s a simple step that catches anything you might forget.

Make your house feel like home

Once the practical stuff is done, it’s time to add those personal touches that make a house feel like home. This is what transforms a pile of boxes into a space that feels familiar, comforting, and yours.

Unpack personal items early

Photos, favourite books, or that throw blanket you always curl up with—these little things bring instant familiarity. They can make a room feel ‘right’ even if other things still need sorting.

Get the smells right

It might sound odd, but the scent of your old home can help you settle in. Whether it’s your usual laundry detergent, air freshener, or simply cooking your favourite meal, familiar smells can make a surprising difference.

Create comfort zones

Set up one space where you can relax, even if the rest of the house is still a work in progress. It could be the sofa with a TV set up, or a reading nook with your favourite chair. Having somewhere to unwind can prevent that feeling of living in a storage unit.

Get to know your new surroundings

It’s not just the inside of your home that matters—getting familiar with your neighbourhood helps you feel settled too.

• Go for a walk and find your nearest shop, park, or cafe.
• Introduce yourself to the neighbours—even a quick hello can make you feel more connected.
• Explore local transport routes if you’re commuting.

Special moving advice: Families, pets, and long-distance moves

Every move comes with its challenges, but some situations need extra care and planning. Moving house with young children, pets, or over long distances can add extra layers of stress if you’re not prepared.

Moving with children

Moving can be exciting for children, but it can also be unsettling. Their routine changes, their bedroom looks different, and they might not fully understand what’s happening. The younger they are, the harder it can be for them to adjust.

Here are a few tips to help make the transition easier for children

• Talk to them about the move: Explain what’s happening in simple terms, and focus on the positives—like a bigger bedroom, a new garden, or a nearby park.
• Let them get involved: Give them small decisions—let them choose the colour for their new room or help pack their toys.
• Visit the new area: If possible, take them to see the house and the local area before moving day.
• Keep their routine: Try to stick to their usual mealtimes, bedtimes, and activities as much as possible, even on moving day.
• Pack a special box: Let them pack a box of their favourite toys and comfort items to keep with them on the move.
• Make their room a priority: Set up their bedroom first when you arrive at your new home.

Moving with pets

Pets can find moving stressful too. New smells, unfamiliar spaces, and the disruption to their routine can make them anxious.

Here are a few tips to help make the move easier for your pets

• Update their microchip details: Make sure your pet’s microchip and collar have your new address.
• Find a new vet: Research local vets in your new area.
• Keep moving day calm: If possible, leave your pets with a friend or pet sitter on moving day. If that’s not possible, set aside a quiet room for them with their bed, food, water, and toys.
• Help them adjust: Once you’re in your new home, let them explore gradually and stick to their usual feeding times and routines.

Long-distance moves

Moving a long distance can be more challenging, but with good planning, it can still be smooth and stress-free.

Here are a few extra things to consider for long-distance moves

• Book your removal company well in advance: This is especially important if you’re moving during a busy period.
• Ask about part-load removals: If you’re flexible with dates, this can save you money.
• Prepare for a longer journey: Pack an overnight bag with essentials in case of delays.
• Check your vehicle: If you’re driving a long distance, make sure your car is serviced and ready for the journey.

Frequently asked questions about moving abroad

No matter how well you prepare, moving abroad often raises questions. Here are answers to some of the most common questions we hear from people getting ready to move overseas.

How can I reduce stress when moving abroad?

The stress of moving often comes from feeling overwhelmed. There’s a lot to organise, and it can feel like everything needs doing at once. The key to reducing stress is planning and pacing yourself. Here are a few things you can do:

• Start early: Begin planning at least eight weeks before moving day.
• Use a checklist: Break tasks into small, manageable steps.
• Declutter first: Don’t waste time packing things you don’t need.
• Pack gradually: A box or two a day is much easier than trying to do everything the night before.
• Get help: Whether it’s professional removals or friends and family, moving is easier with support.

Most importantly—accept that it won’t all be perfect. Moving day might have a hiccup or two, and that’s okay. Stay flexible, and focus on the end result: a fresh start in your new home.

What’s the best way to pack fragile items?

Breakages are one of the biggest moving day worries, especially when it comes to glassware, dishes, and valuables. The secret is using the right materials and packing with care. Here are a few tips:

• Wrap each item individually: Use bubble wrap, packing paper, or newspaper.
• Use small boxes for heavy or fragile items: Large boxes get too heavy and increase the risk of damage.
• Pad the bottom of the box: Use scrunched-up paper or towels as cushioning.
• Fill any gaps: Items should be snug, with no space to move around.
• Mark boxes as fragile: Clear labels help movers handle with care.

Pro tip: Plates and bowls are less likely to break if you pack them vertically like records.

If you’d prefer peace of mind, our packing service at Total Moving Solutions can handle fragile items for you—professionally packed and fully insured.

When should I book a removals company?

As early as possible—especially if you’re moving during peak times like summer, weekends, or at the end of the month. We recommend booking your removals team 4 to 6 weeks in advance to ensure you get your preferred date.

Leaving it too late can limit your options and sometimes result in higher prices. If you have a last-minute move, we’ll always do our best to accommodate you, but early booking is the safest approach.

What if I need to store my belongings?

Sometimes, your moving dates don’t align perfectly—you might need to leave your old home before the new one is ready, or you could be downsizing and still deciding what to keep. Storage is a flexible solution. You can safely store your items for days, weeks, or even months.

At Total Moving Solutions, we offer short and long-term storage options as part of our moving service. Your belongings will be secure and easily accessible whenever you need them.

How do I move house with pets?

Moving can be as stressful for pets as it is for people—sometimes more so. The key is minimising their disruption and keeping their routine as normal as possible. Here are a few things you can do:

• Set aside a quiet room on moving day: Put their bed, food, and water there.
• Transport them safely: Use a pet carrier for small animals and make regular stops if you’re driving long-distance.
• Let them settle slowly: Start by letting them explore one room in the new house, then introduce other rooms gradually.
• Remember to update microchip and vet details with your new address.

What should I pack last?

Some things you’ll need right up until moving day, so it’s best to pack them at the very end. These include:

• Kettle, tea, coffee, and mugs: For a comforting cuppa in your new home.
• Cleaning supplies: To clean up any spills or messes during the move.
• Toiletries: For freshening up after a long day.
• Phone charger: So you can stay connected.
• Essential tools: Scissors, tape, and a screwdriver can come in handy.
• Important documents: Keep passports, visas, and other essential documents with you.
• Pet supplies: If you have pets, pack their food, water bowls, and any medications they need.

These everyday essentials are best kept in your ‘essentials box’, so they’re with you and easy to find as soon as you arrive.

What if something gets damaged during the move?

Accidents are rare with professional removal companies, but they can happen. That’s why insurance is so important.

• Check what’s covered before booking your removals team: Make sure you understand what is and isn’t covered by their insurance.
• Ask about additional cover for high-value or fragile items: If you have any particularly valuable or fragile items, you may want to consider additional cover.

At Total Moving Solutions, all moves are insured, and we offer additional coverage for delicate or valuable belongings. Our team is trained to handle your possessions with care, but it’s good to know you’re covered just in case.

What’s the cheapest way to move house?

Moving doesn’t have to break the bank, but it’s important to balance cost with reliability. Here are a few ways to reduce costs:

• Declutter before you move: The fewer items, the lower the price.
• Pack yourself: Invest in proper boxes and materials.
• Consider part-load removals: If you’re flexible on dates. This shares transport costs with other customers moving in the same direction.
• Get multiple quotes: But be cautious of prices that seem too good to be true—quality matters when it comes to your belongings.

Cheap moves can cost more if things go wrong, so choose a trusted company like Total Moving Solutions—fair pricing with no hidden fees.

Got more questions? We’re here to help

Every move is different, and it’s natural to have questions along the way. At Total Moving Solutions, we’re here to make things easier—whether you need advice, a quote, or a full moving service from start to finish. Get in touch with our friendly team today—let’s get your move started the right way.

Let Total Moving Solutions handle your move

Moving house is one of the biggest changes you’ll make, and no matter how organised you are, it can feel overwhelming. That’s why having the right removals team by your side makes all the difference.

At Total Moving Solutions (TMS), we understand that every move is unique. Whether you’re relocating across the street, to a different part of the UK, or starting a new life overseas, we’re here to take the stress out of moving – so you can focus on settling into your new home.

Why choose Total Moving Solutions?

• Experience you can trust: With over 20 years in the removals industry, we’ve helped thousands of families, individuals, and businesses relocate smoothly and safely.
• Fully managed removals: We offer comprehensive moving services designed to cover everything—from packing and loading to transportation, storage, and unpacking. Whether you need a local house move or international removals, our experienced team will handle every detail, so you don’t have to worry.
• Tailored to your needs: Every move is different, and we get that. That’s why we tailor our services to match your requirements:
  • Packing service: Full or partial packing using quality materials.
  • Furniture disassembly and reassembly: We’ll handle your large items.
  • Storage solutions: Secure storage for short or long-term needs.
  • Part-load removals: Cost-effective option for smaller moves or flexible schedules.
  • Specialist removals: Pianos, antiques, artwork—handled with extra care.
• Reliable and fully insured: We know how important your belongings are. That’s why every move is fully insured and carried out by trained professionals. Our team treats your items as if they were their own.
• Competitive pricing: Moving doesn’t need to break the bank. We provide transparent, competitive quotes with no hidden fees—just quality service you can rely on.

What our customers say

We’ve had the pleasure of helping thousands of customers move their homes and lives with ease, both across the UK and internationally.
Our reputation speaks for itself, with hundreds of positive reviews across Google, Trustpilot, and other specialist platforms.
Here are just a few real experiences shared by our customers:

“Total Moving Solutions made our international move from the UK to Australia seamless. Everything was handled professionally, and the team kept me informed throughout. I couldn’t have asked for a smoother experience.” – Sarah D. (Trustpilot)

“Fantastic service from start to finish. Our move from London to Edinburgh was stress-free thanks to the TMS team. The staff were friendly, careful with our belongings, and everything arrived on time.” – James M. (Google Review)

“We moved from the UK to Ireland, and I was nervous about the logistics. TMS took care of everything – packing, transport, even customs advice. Brilliant service, highly recommend!” – Clare R. (Trustpilot)

“The team was so professional and helpful during our house move within Manchester. They worked quickly but carefully, and nothing was damaged. They really took the stress out of the day.” – Tom B. (Google Review)

These are just a few examples, but there are hundreds more like them. We’re proud to maintain a strong reputation on platforms like:

• Google Reviews – Rated Excellent by hundreds of customers.
• Trustpilot – Rated ‘Excellent’ with over 400 reviews.
• Specialist moving review platforms – Consistently praised for professionalism and care.

When you choose Total Moving Solutions, you’re in good hands.

Ready to move? Get your free quote today

Whatever your moving plans, Total Moving Solutions is here to help. Whether you need a full packing and removal service or simply transport for your belongings, we’ll get the job done professionally and efficiently. Get in touch with our team today for a free, no-obligation quote. Let’s make your move a smooth and stress-free success.