Congratulations - you’ve found your dream property! Before you can get settled in, there are certain things you have to remember to do before you move. We take a look at ten of these important things that will make your moving day easier.

1: Packing

When it comes to packing, it’s not just about putting everything into boxes and leaving it at that. As well as being a good opportunity to get rid of things you no longer want or need, or possibly can’t fit in your new property, this is a great time to work out what furniture and other items will go in each room.

Mark each box with what room it is for and make corresponding signs for each room of the house, which you can Blu-Tack to the doors in your new home before the movers unpack.  By marking each box, you not only help save the removal company time, but you will save yourself time when it comes to unpacking.

2: First night box

It can also be useful to have a box of things that you will need on the day: a kettle, few mugs, tea and biscuits, toothbrushes and a pair of pyjamas in an easy-to-find box making it quicker to locate the essentials during the move. This saves time during the day and in the evening afterwards, when you will no doubt be tired after a busy day.

Keep this essentials box, along with any important documents (such as passports) and food items in your car, so that you know where it is at all times.

3: Redirect your mail

A mail redirect from the Royal Mail costs from £33.99 and can be set up for three, six or twelve months.

Even with the redirection service, it is important to make sure that anyone you usually receive mail from has your correct address. This will include any subscriptions, your work and your bank.

Remember also to inform your local council for council tax, the electoral register and HMRC.

4: Ensure your car gets the new address too

Don’t forget to update the address on your driving licence, your car insurance policy and your vehicle log book, to that of your new home. This may not seem important, but some car insurance policies are based on where the car is kept overnight: so by being in a different driveway or garage as a result of the move, your insurer may refuse to pay out.

5: Arrange your TV and broadband

First off, notify TV Licencing that you are changing address, so that you are covered to watch TV from the day that you move, and don’t have to pay extra for two licences – one for your old property and one for your new.

Also make sure to find out about broadband, landline and digital TV. Most providers will allow you to change your package to the new address – as long as they offer service in that area. However, you will need to contact them in advance to see if you can simply transfer the package, whether they can offer an alternative, or if you can get a refund for the unused contract period if required.

6: Look into the local doctors, dentists and schools

If you’re moving within the same area you currently live, then you may be staying with the same doctor and dentist, and your child may be staying at the same school. However, if you are moving to a different town, or even a different area in the same town, you may need to change.

Take a look into the options available, and let your current school, doctor and dentist know when you are moving, as well as signing up with the new providers.

7: Book a child minder and kennels/cattery

If you have children or pets, ensuring that they are out of the way on the big day can take some of the worry away. Perhaps you have relatives who can look after them for the day, or a friend your wee ones can stay with?

Otherwise, remember to book a child minder who can look after the children at their house while you move.

The same goes for pets: if you do not have a friend or relative who can take care of them for the day, then book a kennel or cattery in advance. It can be helpful to put them in the night before, to save time on moving day.

8: Make sure you’re insured

You’ve got your mortgage, but have you got insurance? Confirm that your new house is insured – and also that your contents are insured during the move.

Many removal companies will have insurance, but it is a good idea to find out exactly what is covered, in case any damage occurs during the move.

9: Take readings of gas and electricity meters

Notify your utility suppliers that you are moving and provide meter readings for your last day. This will stop you from being billed for any gas and electricity charges that are not yours.

Make a note as well to take readings at the new property, in case you need to tell your new supplier. If you decide to change suppliers from whoever the previous owners were with, ensure that this is set up in advance, so you have gas and electricity for moving day.

10: Take a final look round the property

Before you leave, take a final look around the property and make sure that you haven’t forgotten anything – and that everything that was agreed as part of the sale (for example, curtains) are still in place.

Double check that any instruction manuals for white goods, any keys for garages or windows and any additional instructions that you may have written down for the new homeowners are in a clear area, such as the kitchen worktop.

With so much to remember, it is no wonder that moving home is considered one of the most stressful activities. Just remember to take your time, write a checklist of everything that needs done and try to take things in stages.