The next move is yours

Transport requirements: You will have to factor in the cost of hiring a removal van on the day – and possibly for subsequent days, depending on the size of the move. You should also check the legal requirements for your van as you may find a special licence is needed.

Support on hand: Make sure your ‘support crew’ comprising friends or family is all available on the same day, and think carefully about whether your team will together be able to move your heavy and awkward household items without anyone injuring themself.

Safeguarding your gear: Protect your possessions when moving, bubble wrapping any breakable items and securing any loose items that might get damaged in transit. Where needed, boxes should be labelled as fragile so you know to take extra care when handling them.

Seek referrals: If you do decide to engage a removalist, ensure you hire the right person by asking friends and family for recommendations. Referrals can help you weed out the bad from the good – and avoid being overcharged.

Determine your needs: A professional removalist will offer you different levels of service for different prices. Some offer a complete service, including packing and unpacking; others only transfer your boxed belongings. Regardless of the service you select, a good moving company will make the effort to come to your home prior to your move to determine what type of equipment and labour will be required.

Your choice of removalist should not come down to who offers the cheapest service. If hiring someone you can trust means paying a little bit extra, it will be money well spent to ensure your assets are well looked after. Remember, however, that even the best companies can experience mishaps so it’s a very wise idea also to invest in insurance.

Moving house can be stressful, but if you are organised and realistic about what you can and cannot do yourself, you can maximise your chances of having a trouble-free move.