Moving checklist: everything arranged for your new home
The purchase is finalised and the key transfer is scheduled. Now the practical work begins: moving. With good planning you avoid stress and forget nothing. Use this checklist as a guide for the weeks before and after the move.
Two months before the move
Plan the moving date around the date of transfer at the notary's office. Request quotes from moving companies or arrange help from friends and family. Give notice on your rental home if you rent, taking the notice period into account. Start decluttering: anything you won't take with you doesn't need to be packed either.
One month before the move
Arrange your energy contract, internet and TV for the new address. Take out buildings insurance for the new home if that isn't already arranged via the mortgage. Also adjust your contents insurance. Plan any jobs, such as painting or a new floor, preferably right after transfer, before the furniture is in place.
Two weeks before the move
Report your move to the municipality. Inform your employer, bank, health insurer, GP and dentist. Arrange a parking permit or exemption for the moving van if needed. Start packing boxes with items you don't use daily, and label them by room.
The day of transfer
Together with your agent you carry out a final inspection of the home. Check that everything is in the agreed condition. Afterwards you go to the notary to sign the deeds. Read more about this moment in what happens at the notary's office. Also note the meter readings for gas, water and electricity right away.
Moving day
Prepare a moving box with essentials: toilet paper, a kettle, coffee, chargers, tools and cleaning supplies. Keep important documents close at hand. Have the movers put the boxes straight into the right rooms.
After the move
Check that your post arrives properly and update your address with subscriptions and webshops. Get to know the neighbours and find out when the waste is collected. Living in an apartment? Then also get to know the owners' association. Read more about that in buying an apartment.
Planning to renovate
Want to renovate or make the home more sustainable? Make a plan and request quotes. Our specialists in renovation can help you get started. Also read sustainability and home value.
Frequently asked: when do I give notice on my rental?
Only give notice on your rental home once the purchase is final and all dissolving conditions have expired. Take the notice period into account, which is often one month. Plan so you have a short overlap between the transfer and the end of the tenancy. That gives you time to do jobs and move calmly, without paying double housing costs for long.
Moving with children
Moving with children? Involve them in the move. Let them think along about how to arrange their room and pack their belongings last, so they immediately have their own space in the new home. Arrange registration at a new school or childcare in time if needed. A sleepover at grandma and grandad's on moving day can also bring a lot of peace.
Waste and surplus belongings
A move is the ideal moment to declutter. Sell items you no longer use online, take them to a charity shop, or arrange a bulky waste collection with the municipality. The less you take with you, the cheaper and faster the move goes.
Still looking for your new home?
Not there yet? Browse the property listings, set up a free search profile or read our step-by-step plan for buying a house. Our buying agents are happy to guide you.