Why Have a Moving Home Checklist?
A moving home checklist can help you organise your move effectively and takes away stress. Preparing belongings, utilities, broadband, and waste collection in advance helps stop you rushing around at the last minute. This guide covers steps from two months before moving through moving day.
Need Help Setting Up Your New Home?
Moving house? Our experts at Selectra can set up your energy, broadband, and utilities in one free call — saving you time and money.
Two Months Before
After finding your dream property, preparation at least two months before the day makes a lot of sense. Multiple factors might cause delays, so having a plan in advance can save a lot of anxiety.
Pick a Moving Date
Selecting a moving date should be your first thing you do. Consider both season and day of the week, as some days are more expensive. Book time off work and inform your employer as soon as possible.
Check Your Rent Contract
Review your rental agreement to determine notice period requirements. The usual notice period is around 30 days but it can vary from contract to contract.
Check If Your New Property Needs a New Connection
Verify that your new property has electricity and gas connections. If gas isn't available, contact your gas network operator.
One Month Before
This is when you start actively sorting out your belongings and notifying providers of your move.
Book a Removals Company
Evaluate your possessions to determine if you need a van or professional removal company. This depends on how much you have and the size of your new home.
Notify Your Utility Companies
Contact utility companies a month ahead. The process of moving energy suppliers to new properties typically takes at least two weeks, with potential unexpected delays.
Post Redirection Fees
| Duration | Ireland Address Fee | Abroad Address Fee |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Month | €50 | €65 |
| 3 Months | €110 | €155 |
| 6 Months | €175 | €240 |
| 12 Months | €220 | €300 |
Source: An Post Website
Two Weeks Before
This is when you have to start packing. Begin with non-essentials to make things a lot easier.
Begin Packing Non-Essentials
Pack items like seasonal clothes, spare bedding, towels, cushions, tablecloths, and toys. Use up frozen food during the last two weeks to avoid waste and speed up defrosting.
Look Into Storage
Consider renting storage space if downsizing or unsure about fit. This allows you to break up your move more efficiently and reduce clutter.
Get Moving Boxes
This is one of the most vital parts of a moving checklist. Get a few different sizes so you have the perfect box for all sorts of items. You'll probably need more boxes than initially expected.
Need Help Setting Up Your New Home?
Moving house? Our experts at Selectra can set up your energy, broadband, and utilities in one free call — saving you time and money.
One Week Before
Organise everything into boxes and sections while checking for hidden items.
Go Through an Inventory
If renting, review your initial inventory checklist to ensure you're leaving the property exactly how it was before you moved in.
Label Your Moving Boxes
Pack items from only one room per box. Make sure to label the boxes so you know exactly what's in them! This will dramatically cut back your time sorting later.
Two Days Before
Ensure everything is ready before moving day arrives.
Get the Washing Done
Wash and dry all clothes and set aside items for the next two days. This will save you space and keeps laundry organised.
Disconnect Appliances
Unplug the cooker, dishwasher, washing machine, fridge, and freezer. This helps save energy. After removing food, defrost your freezer for cleaning.
Deep Clean the House
Clean your property yourself or hire a cleaner to make sure everything is all spotless before leaving.
Moving Day
If you've followed all steps, you'll be ready to load up the van stress-free.
Pack the Moving Van
Loading Order:
- Heavy Items — Wardrobes, fridges, freezers, sofas, and ovens first; ensure balanced loading
- Delicate Objects — Mirrors, televisions, picture frames wrapped in bubble wrap after heavy items
- Longer Furniture — Mattresses or disassembled furniture stored along sides to leave floor space
- Heavy Boxes — Fill remaining floor space; store in gaps to prevent shifting
- Lighter Boxes — Pack tightly using all available space to prevent movement
Take Final Meter Readings
Take final readings from electricity, gas, and water meters. Write down or take a picture of the reading for billing purposes.
Lock Up Doors and Windows
Lock up all the doors and windows before leaving. Secure the property for next occupants and return keys to your landlord or relevant party.
Need Help Setting Up Your New Home?
Moving house? Our experts at Selectra can set up your energy, broadband, and utilities in one free call — saving you time and money.
After Moving
Though you've finished, several tasks remain in your first weeks.
Inspect Utilities in Your New Home
Locate the circuit breaker, water valve, gas and electricity meters, and your MPRN number for reference during emergencies.
Check Your Broadband Speed
Test broadband with a speed test to ensure it meets expectations. Check available providers if speeds are inadequate.
Housewarming Party
Moving is actually a great achievement. Celebrate with helpers who assisted, while respecting noise limit restrictions in your new area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving House in Ireland
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