Moving day can feel like a race against the clock. There is always something that needs doing, and the pressure builds as the hours go by. Even when families believe they have planned everything, the day can still turn stressful.
It is easy to overlook small but essential tasks in the rush. Some of these are not obvious at first but can cause trouble after the move. To help make the process smoother, here are five common tasks families often forget but should not.
Update Pet Information
Pets have needs too. Their tags, microchips, and vet records should be updated before the move. If a pet gets loose during the transition or while settling in, outdated information could delay finding them and create unnecessary stress.
Update your contact details with your current vet and the microchip registry at least a week before the move. Make sure collars show your new phone number, and double-check any medication or feeding routines ahead of time. Keep your pet’s travel crate and essentials accessible on moving day.
If you are working with a team like the removalists at Smart Move, let them know there are pets in the house. Giving them notice helps avoid surprises and ensures pets are not accidentally let out during the move. Good planning makes a clear difference, and knowing your pet is safe gives you peace of mind.
Cancel or Transfer Local Subscriptions
Think beyond boxes and packing tape. Local gym memberships, children’s activity classes, or even a weekly produce delivery might still be active. Forgetting to cancel or transfer these services can result in unnecessary charges.
Some companies require notice before cancellation, so it is best to take care of this early. Review your bank statements and app subscriptions to identify services linked to your current location. Creating a checklist of these accounts ensures nothing is overlooked and helps you stay in control of your finances.
Do not forget about school lunch accounts or library cards. If they are not closed out, you could lose funds or face unexpected fees. Taking time to wrap these up prevents problems later.
Take Photos of Electronic Setups
Before unplugging any devices, take a quick photo. Wires, HDMI cords, soundbars, and game consoles all have specific connections. Once everything is disconnected, putting it back together from memory can take hours.
Use your phone to capture pictures of the back of your television, Wi-Fi router, or computer setup. This simple step saves time and frustration when you reconnect everything and helps other family members know where things belong.
If your children use tablets or game systems with parental controls or Wi-Fi settings, write those down as well. Moving often resets devices, and having your settings recorded reduces confusion later.
Empty Hidden Storage Areas
Not everything is packed in plain sight. Places like under-bed drawers, the back corners of wardrobes, the garden shed, or even behind the fridge are easy to forget. Items that are not part of daily use often get left behind.
Walk through every room with a torch before calling it finished. Look high, low, and behind anything that has been moved. These overlooked spots can hold tools, toys, chargers, or paperwork you will need later.
Remember to check outdoor spaces too. Garden tools, hoses, and small furniture are often left until the last moment, and sometimes they never make the trip. Adding outdoor checks to your moving list can help you avoid repeat visits.
Set Up Mail Redirection
Many people do not think about mail until something important fails to arrive. That missing letter could be a bill, a package, or a medical appointment reminder. Even if you have informed friends and coworkers about the move, not every sender will know where to reach you.
Start the redirection process at least a week before leaving. Most postal services offer redirection for a set period, which gives you time to update your address with everyone. This protects your personal information and helps prevent missed payments or notices.
Make a short list of people and organisations you need to notify directly. Banks, insurers, schools, and subscription services should be updated immediately. Mail redirection is useful as a backup, but it should not be your only plan.
Wrap Up
No move is perfect, but missing fewer steps makes a big difference. These tasks may seem small, yet forgetting them can lead to stress later. Taking the time to complete them now can save a great deal of hassle.
Consider creating a moving folder to store all essential documents and information in one place. This keeps you organised and reduces the chance of misplacing something important. When moving day arrives, you will be glad you made the effort.