Summer is one of the most popular times to move house in the UK—but it can also be one of the most chaotic if you don’t plan ahead. From heatwaves to tight property chains, timing is everything.
That’s why we’ve created this summer moving checklist—a practical timeline of what to pack and when, so you stay on top of things every step of the way. Just as important? Making sure your local conveyance is sorted early to avoid last-minute legal delays.
Here’s how to beat the summer stress and move into your new home feeling cool, calm, and in control.
4 Weeks Before the Move: Prep Like a Pro
Start with the foundation of a smooth move—planning and paperwork.
To-do:
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Confirm your moving date
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Book your removals company
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Notify your utility providers
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Begin a declutter: donate, sell, or recycle what you don’t need
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Finalise your local conveyance if you haven’t already
Hiring a local conveyancer early ensures you can deal with contracts, searches, and queries without holding up the process.
Start packing:
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Non-essentials: books, out-of-season clothes, decorative items, storage room contents
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Label every box by room and content
3 Weeks Before: Pack With Purpose
Things are starting to get real—so it’s time to keep up the momentum.
To-do:
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Arrange childcare or pet care for moving day
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Order packing supplies: boxes, tape, bubble wrap, marker pens
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Request time off work if needed
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Start using up perishables in your fridge/freezer
Pack now:
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Guest bedrooms and spare bedding
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Wall art and ornaments
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Seasonal equipment (garden tools, camping gear)
And check in with your local conveyance provider to confirm everything is on schedule.
2 Weeks Before: Tie Up Loose Ends
This is when the moving admin really ramps up. Double-check every detail.
To-do:
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Change your address with banks, GP, schools, etc.
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Confirm insurance policies for your new home
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Collect and file any legal documents from your conveyancer
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Arrange redirection for your post
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Create a folder with all important documents—especially related to your local conveyance process
Pack now:
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Kitchen cupboards you don’t use daily
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Most of your clothes
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Remaining decorative items
1 Week Before: Essentials Only
It’s crunch time. Only the absolute necessities should still be in use.
To-do:
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Pack a moving day kit (snacks, toiletries, chargers, documents)
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Defrost the freezer
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Do a final clean of packed rooms
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Reconfirm logistics with your removals company
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Touch base with your local conveyancer to confirm exchange and completion details
Pack now:
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Daily kitchen items (leave just enough for meals)
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Bathroom items
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Electronics and tech
🚚 Moving Day: Keep it Cool
Summer moves can be hot and hectic—so dress comfortably, drink water, and stay organised.
To-do:
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Carry your essentials bag with you
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Do a final walkthrough of your old property
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Ensure all keys, documents, and ID are accessible
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Check that your conveyancer has everything they need for completion
With your packing done and your local conveyance sorted, the hard part is over—just focus on settling in!
Make Your Summer Move a Success
A smooth summer move isn’t just about packing boxes—it’s about planning ahead and having the right professionals in place. A trusted local conveyance provider will keep your legal process running on time, so you’re not stuck waiting during peak season.
Need help finding a reliable local conveyancer?
👉 Use The Move Exchange to connect with vetted local conveyance experts and get moving with confidence.
