A Local 2026 Moving Checklist for Bournemouth & Poole: No Chaos, No Surprises, Just a Clear Plan
Here’s how to prep properly (and keep your stress levels normal)
-Most moving-day disasters aren’t “bad luck” — they’re missing prep. If you want a smooth move (and fewer surprise costs), do these in order:
1) Do a 20-minute “move plan”
In your Notes app, write:
moving date + arrival window
full pick-up + drop-off addresses (incl. flat numbers)
what needs moving (big items + approx. boxes/bags)
floors + lift info
parking notes (how close to the door)
Tip: create one WhatsApp chat called “Move Day” and keep everything in there.
2) Declutter first (this is the biggest money-saver)
Before you pack, sort into: Keep / Sell / Donate / Bin.
If you haven’t used it in 12 months, it’s probably not worth paying to move.
Quick win: do one room a day for a week — you’ll feel the difference.
3) Label like a pro (so you’re not hunting for the kettle)
On every box:
ROOM + WHAT’S INSIDE + PRIORITY (1–3)
Use coloured tape per room (Kitchen / Bedroom / Living room).
Hack: take a quick photo of the box contents before you tape it up.
4) Pack an “Open First” box (first night essentials)
Keep this separate and clearly marked:
chargers + extension lead
kettle/tea/coffee, water, snacks
toiletries + towels
meds/basic first aid
scissors/box cutter, bin bags
important documents + keys
5) Packing best practice (less breakage, faster loading)
Books and heavy items: small boxes
Clothes/soft items: bigger boxes/bags
Plates: pack upright (like records)
Screws/bolts for furniture: in a labelled bag taped to the item
6) Parking + access (this is what kills timing)
Check ahead:
can the van park close to the entrance? any permits?
lift booking (some buildings require it)
tight stairwells/doorways (sofa + mattress risks)
Hack: film a 15-second video from the door to the parking spot and send it to your movers.
7) Avoid “surprise extras” — ask these before you book
what’s included (protection, dis/assembly, etc.)
insurance (Goods in Transit + Public Liability)
written quote
arrival window policy (and what happens if they’re late)
If you’re moving around Bournemouth / Poole / Christchurch and want a quick, clear estimate, message me on WhatsApp with:
addresses + list of items + floors/lift + parking — and I’ll tell you what size crew makes sense.
