The complete moving checklist: forget nothing
8-6 weeks before the move
Preparation starts well in advance. Six to eight weeks before your move is the time to set the broad outlines. Request quotes from moving companies and compare on price, service and reviews. Give notice on your current home or arrange the notarial transfer of your new home. Start inventorying your belongings and decide what to take, give away, sell or discard. Set a moving date and book the moving company. Inform your employer about your move and request moving leave if applicable. Start collecting moving boxes and packing materials. Don't forget to inform your childcare, school or GP practice. This is also the time to apply for a parking permit with the municipality if needed for the moving truck.
4-2 weeks before the move
Now things get concrete. Two to four weeks before the move, start the actual packing. Begin with rooms and items you don't use daily, such as the guest room, attic and garage. Label all boxes clearly with contents and destination room in your new home. Arrange the transfer of utilities (gas, water, electricity, internet) at your old and new address. Submit address changes to the municipality, bank, insurance, subscriptions and other organisations. Make a floor plan of your new home and determine where large furniture will go. Arrange storage if needed. Make arrangements with your moving company about planning, accessibility and special requirements. Don't forget to keep valuables and important documents separate and transport them yourself.
The last week before the move
The last week is the final sprint. Pack the remaining rooms, including kitchen and bathroom. Defrost and clean your fridge and freezer at least 24 hours before the move. Disassemble furniture that cannot be transported whole, or have the moving company do this. Clean your current home or arrange a cleaning service. Confirm all arrangements with the moving company: time, address, contact person and special requirements. Ensure sufficient parking space at both your old and new home. Pack a "first-day box" with essentials: toiletries, coffee maker, basic tools, bed linen, chargers and snacks. Take meter readings at your old home. Check that all keys are available for the handover.
On moving day itself
The big day has arrived. Make sure you're ready on time when the moving team arrives. Guide the movers and indicate which items need extra careful handling. Keep your phone handy for unforeseen circumstances. Walk through your old home one last time to check everything is packed: closets, attic, basement, storage and balcony. Do a final inspection and take photos of the condition. Lock up and hand in the keys. At your new home: check the condition, take meter readings and direct the moving team where everything should go. Unpack the first-day box first and arrange coffee and something to eat. Unpacking can happen over the coming days, give yourself some rest.
After the move: what now?
After the move, there are still some things to arrange. Check all belongings for damage and report this to the moving company immediately if needed. Unpack systematically: start with the bedroom and kitchen so your basic needs are met right away. Register with the new GP practice, dentist and pharmacy. Register at the new municipality if you've changed municipalities. Verify that all address changes have been processed correctly. Test all utilities and report any issues. Introduce yourself to your new neighbours, a good start is half the battle. Keep the moving invoice: moving costs may be tax deductible in some cases. Break down moving boxes and take them to paper recycling, or pass them on to someone else who is moving.
About Vermaat Verhuizingen
Vermaat Verhuizingen relocates private clients and businesses across the Netherlands. Our articles are written from practical knowledge of the moving trade, from narrow Amsterdam staircases to international moves. More about us →
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