Removal tips for the big day

• Ensure that anything needed for the moving day, such as money, keys, mobile phone, ID and important documents are put aside in one place. (e.g. car, wardrobe or a corner of a room)

• All removal men enjoy a nice cup of tea, so please don't pack the kettle etc until the very end of the day.

• Try to arrange someone to look after your young children on the move day, mainly for health and safety reasons.

• Cats and dogs do get under our feet when we are moving. So please arrange for them to be looked after or put away for their and our safety.

• At the delivery address please ensure that someone is on hand to direct the removal men to place the furniture in the right rooms.

• Please don't water your large pot plants before your move as it makes them very heavy.

• Arrange sufficient parking by parking two or more cars where the removal van will have to go, or by placing a few notices up on bins the night before. Also, if your road requires permits, make arrangements to have a permit available on the move day.

• The day before your move defrost the fridge and freezer. (Only if your belongings are going into storage)

• Petrol lawn mowers or strimmers must be empty of petrol.

Tips on packing

• Using a marker pen, clearly label the top of each box with a brief description of contents and the destination room.

• Linen, washing, and clothes that are not ironed should be packed into black or recycling bags.

• Always pack glasses upright and plates on their side.

• Use pillows or anything soft to add extra protection to your fragile belongings.

• When disassembling items keep screws, nuts and bolts, in a box that is easy to find.

• Never use printed newsprint to wrap fine china.

• Use small boxes for books, LP's and wine as these are very heavy.

• Try to pack all electronic equipment in their original boxes if you still have them.

• Have a good sort out of your wardrobes, loft, basement and garage before the move.

• Dried flowers or plants that don't fit in a box can be packed into a box with the top open.

• A sturdy chest of drawers can be left full, with soft items inside.

• Tape garden tools together in bundles of three.

• Leave packing your frozen and refrigerated food until the very end (use a cool box or bag if available).

This should only be used as guidance