Moving into a new home is always exciting, but it can also be quite a hectic and stressful time. To help make your move go as smoothly as possible, here are some of our top tips for the big day.

1. Make a moving day plan

No matter how prepared you think you are for moving day, something always crops up. Take some time to make a quick list for the day itself.

Consider your priorities and timescales for the day. What do you absolutely need to do, and what could potentially be done on another day if necessary. Ranking your priorities for the day will help you adapt quicky if things don’t go to plan.

Writing a list the night before will ensure you’re better prepared for the day ahead.

2. Many hands make light work

Enlisting some extra help for moving day is a great idea, even if it’s just having a friend or relative on standby that can be called in to assist if needed. Whether it’s helping with cleaning, loading and unloading furniture, or keeping the kids entertained so you can focus on the task at hand, an extra pair of hands will always come in useful once your move gets underway.

3. Pack your essentials

Make sure to keep a personal bag or box of essential items that you’ll need throughout move-in day and ensure its within easy reach in your car or the removals van.

Fill your moving day bag with essential items like:

• Medication
• Toiletries and cosmetics
• Towels
• Loo roll
• Pillows and bedding
• Pyjamas
• Phone chargers
• A change of clothes
• Teabags/coffee/cutlery/mugs/travel kettle
• Your book, a magazine, laptop or iPad
• Pet food
• Any keys you may need

4. Don’t forget your pets

Moving house can be a stressful process for pets too. Every pet is different, but the general advice is to find a quiet and secure space for them in your new home, so they can start to get used to their new surroundings without getting caught up in the commotion of unpacking. Be sure to check on them regularly and make sure they have plenty of food and water.

5. Plan ahead for your first night

You might be too tired to start unpacking or setting up your furniture at the end of move-in day. So, make sure you’re prepared for your first night.

Do you have blow-up mattresses and sleeping bags? Have you got something to sit on until your sofa arrives? How about packing extra bedsheets to create make-shift curtains?

Don’t stress about cooking – pizza has never tasted better than when it’s eaten in your new home, surrounded by dozens of unpacked boxes.

6. Focus on what you actually need

The moving process can be really overwhelming. You want to stamp your style on your new place immediately, but where do you start?

Here’s what interiors experts Lifestyle Interiors have to say:

“Don’t buy everything all at once; start with staple pieces for each room. The kind of stuff you use every day like beds, a dining table and sofa. Invest in the best possible pieces you can afford as you want something that will last for years to come.”

Settling into your home isn’t a process that should be rushed. Taking some time to consider the style and functionality of each room once you’ve moved in will ensure you’re happy with how your home looks in the long term. Creating Pinterest boards for each room is a great way to keep track of ideas

And remember…

Feeling fully settled in your new home won’t happen overnight. When it comes to move-in day, make sure you’re ahead of the game and come fully prepared with your list, essential kit, and your overnight gear. Once you’re in, give yourself some time to adjust to your new surroundings and visualise how best to make each room work for you.

Ready to move into the St. Modwen Home of your dreams? Find the perfect new build home for you.