South West London Man & Van: Removals Checklist
- The London Man And Van
- Dec 24, 2025
- 5 min read
Moving homes or offices can be a monumental task. To ensure a smooth and stress-free experience in South West London, creating a detailed removals checklist is paramount. This checklist serves as your roadmap, guiding you through each step of the process, from the initial planning stages to settling into your new space. A well-executed checklist not only minimizes the chances of overlooking crucial tasks but also helps you stay organized and on schedule. As The London Man And Van, we’ve seen it all, and this checklist is distilled from years of experience helping Londoners navigate the complexities of moving.
Pre-Move Planning: Weeks Before the Big Day
The groundwork you lay weeks before moving day significantly impacts how smoothly everything goes. Don’t underestimate this crucial preparation phase.
Declutter and Downsize
Start by decluttering your home. Go through each room and identify items you no longer need or use. Consider selling, donating, or discarding these items. The less you have to move, the lower the cost and the easier the process. This is an excellent opportunity to get rid of old furniture, clothes, and other items that are simply taking up space.
Research and Book Your Removals Service
Choosing the right Man And Van South West London service is essential. Research different companies, compare prices, and read reviews. The London Man And Van offers transparent, affordable pricing with no hidden fees, starting from £40/hour with half-hour billing. Book your service well in advance to secure your preferred date and time. We offer a safe & secure online booking system, so you can get your move sorted quickly and easily.
Notify Important Parties
Inform relevant parties about your upcoming move. This includes:
Banks and financial institutions
Utility companies (gas, electricity, water, internet)
Insurance providers
Subscription services
Government agencies (e.g., HMRC, DVLA)
Medical providers
Forwarding your mail is also crucial to ensure you receive important correspondence at your new address.
Start Packing Strategically
Begin packing items you don’t use regularly, such as seasonal decorations, books, and spare linens. Pack one room at a time to stay organized. Label each box clearly with its contents and the room it belongs to. Use sturdy boxes and packing materials to protect your belongings during transit. Consider utilizing our packing & unpacking service to save time and effort.
One Week Before: Fine-Tuning the Details
With the moving day fast approaching, it's time to finalize the arrangements and address any remaining details.
Confirm Removals Booking
Reconfirm your booking with The London Man And Van to ensure everything is on track. Discuss any specific requirements or concerns you may have. We pride ourselves on our customer-focused approach and are happy to accommodate your needs.
Pack an Essentials Box
Prepare a box containing essential items you’ll need immediately upon arrival at your new home. This should include toiletries, medications, a change of clothes, phone chargers, and basic kitchen supplies. This box should be easily accessible during and after the move.
Disassemble Furniture (If Applicable)
If you plan to disassemble any furniture yourself, do so now. Keep all screws and hardware in a labeled bag attached to the corresponding furniture piece. Alternatively, our handyman service can handle furniture assembly/disassembly for you, saving you time and hassle.
Defrost Your Refrigerator
Defrost your refrigerator at least 24 hours before the move to prevent water damage. Clean it thoroughly and remove any loose items.
Moving Day: Execution and Oversight
This is the day you've been preparing for. Focus, communication, and a systematic approach are key to a successful move.
Supervise the Loading Process
Be present during the loading process to answer any questions and ensure your belongings are handled with care. Our professional, friendly movers are experienced in handling all types of items, from delicate antiques to bulky furniture.
Do a Final Walk-Through
Before leaving your old home, do a final walk-through to ensure nothing has been left behind. Check closets, drawers, and storage areas.
Protect Your Floors and Walls
Cover floors with protective sheets and pad walls to prevent scratches and damage during the move. Our team takes extra care to protect your property.
Direct the Unloading Process
Upon arrival at your new home, direct the unloading process and ensure boxes are placed in the correct rooms. This will save you time and effort when unpacking.
Post-Move: Settling In and Follow-Up
The move isn't over when the last box is unloaded. Settling in and taking care of administrative tasks are important steps.
Unpack Strategically
Start by unpacking essential items and setting up your bedroom and bathroom. Then, tackle the remaining rooms one at a time.
Inspect for Damage
Inspect your belongings for any damage that may have occurred during the move. Report any damage to The London Man And Van immediately. We offer full tracking & proof of delivery for added peace of mind.
Dispose of Packing Materials
Dispose of packing materials responsibly. Consider recycling or donating reusable materials. We also offer Rubbish Removal / Junk & Waste Clearance services for your convenience.
Update Your Address
Update your address with any remaining parties you may have missed. This includes subscriptions, online accounts, and any other relevant services.
Don't forget, if you need to move items to self-storage, The London Man And Van can help with transport to self-storage facilities. And if you're a student, we specialize in student moves too! We offer a complete moving service, so you don't have to worry about a thing. Plus, if you need a handyman, check out our Man and Van North London + Handyman: Get a Quote! post.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I book a South West London Man & Van service?
We recommend booking at least 2-4 weeks in advance, especially during peak moving seasons (summer and end of the month). This ensures availability and allows ample time for planning. However, we do offer same-day & next-day services for urgent moves.
What size van do I need for my move?
The size of the van depends on the volume of your belongings. For small apartment moves, a medium-sized van may suffice. For larger house moves, a larger van or multiple trips may be necessary. Contact us for a consultation, and we can help you determine the appropriate van size.
Are there any items that South West London Man & Van services typically won't move?
Yes, there are certain items that most removal companies won't transport due to safety or legal reasons. These include flammable materials, explosives, hazardous chemicals, and perishable goods. Check with your removals company for a complete list of prohibited items.
What payment options do you accept?
We offer flexible payment options to suit your needs. We accept major credit cards, debit cards, and bank transfers. Contact us for more information on our payment terms.
By following this comprehensive South West London Man & Van: Removals Checklist, you can ensure a smooth, efficient, and stress-free moving experience. Remember to tailor the checklist to your specific needs and circumstances. As The London Man And Van, we are here to support you every step of the way, providing reliable, affordable, and professional moving services throughout London, the UK, and Europe. Remember, the simplest way to move is with The London Man And Van.
