Get estimates from removal firms. Ask about their packing and unpacking service, if you need it, and whether they provide packing cases. Alternatively, find out about hiring a self-drive van.

Always make sure that the removal firm has comprehensive insurance cover against damage to or loss of your goods and confirm your requirements.

Check your home contents insurance policy for cover at your new address and during your move.

Write to your Building Society/Bank and any credit card companies, advising them of your new address and amending standing orders etc.

Arrange for water, electricity, gas, telephone and other accounts to be finalised. Don’t forget to register with your new service providers at your new address.

Book a suitably qualified electrician, gas installer and plumber, if required, to disconnect appliances at your old address and re-fit them at your new address as necessary.

Notify your Doctor’s and Dentist’s surgeries so that your medical records can be transferred to your new practices.

Confirm school transfers.

Start collecting suitable packing boxes, if they are not provided by the removal firm, and start packing things that you won’t need until after you have moved.

Create a system of identifying the packing boxes that will be opened first (by numbering or colour-coding) and label all boxes clearly with the contents and the room in which they belong.

Let your employer know your new address.