The Checklist

1. Confirm the date of your move

2. Check your home insurance - make sure you have cover from the day you move in to your new home.

3. Obtain written quotes from several removal firms.  If you're not using professional removers, ask friends to help

4. Book extra storage space if required

5. Notify the relevant utility companies of your departure.

6. Start getting rid of possessions you no longer need. Decide which items can be taken to a charity shop, sold at car boot sale, or offered to your friends.

7. Start getting rid of possessions you no longer need. Decide which items can be taken to a charity shop, sold at car boot sale, or offered to your friends.

8. Start getting rid of possessions you no longer need. Decide which items can be taken to a charity shop, sold at car boot sale, or offered to your friends.

9. Start packing non-essential items such as books and non-seasonal clothes into boxes.

10. De-register from your doctor, dentist and optician if you're moving out of the area.

11. Visit the post office and arrange for your post to be forwarded (you will be charged a fee for this ser Notify your milkman and newspaper shop that you'll be moving and give them a date you want the service to stop.

12. Finalise arrangements with your removal company. Confirm arrival times and make sure your removers have directions to your new address.

13. Notify your bank of any changes to direct debits and standing orders.