MOVING GUIDE
Moving schedule: from eight weeks before to moving day
Key answers
From confirming the handover date and sorting the list to checking items on the day, each step is arranged by time; even with a shorter preparation period, it can still be handled in sequence.
Eight to six weeks before: first confirm the handover of the old and new homes
First check the old home’s vacant possession date, the new home’s key collection date and the renovation completion date, then decide whether to move in directly. Do not book the moving date based only on the estimated completion date; if the timings on both sides do not match, also look into temporary accommodation and storage arrangements to avoid having to find somewhere else at short notice.
Confirm with your family which furniture to take, and plan the layout according to the room sizes in the new home. First decide on large wardrobes, bed frames and fridges, as they affect the inventory, access assessment and usable space in the new home.
- Note down the full addresses, floor levels and contact persons for both sides
- Ask the management office about moving time slots, lifts and vehicle registration
- List items to be moved, discarded and stored separately
Three to five weeks ahead: prepare quotation and booking details
Give the moving company the item list, photos and the moving conditions at both locations. In addition to the floor, state whether vehicles can reach the door, whether stairs are involved, and whether access is via a podium or a lift transfer. Saying only that there is a lift does not describe the full route.
After receiving the written quote, check each item, service date, dismantling and any additional items one by one. The schedule must be confirmed in practice, especially at month-end, weekends or times with more management office restrictions; a submitted enquiry should not be treated as a completed booking.
- Confirm the moving time available at both the old and new homes
- Check against the quotation and item list, and add any omitted items
- Keep written records of the service scope, payment and rescheduling arrangements
Two weeks before: start packing infrequently used items first
Pack out-of-season clothes, books and infrequently used crockery first, and leave everyday items until last. Number each box and write the room and a brief description on it. Keep an electronic list as well, so the person receiving the items at the new home can also check them.
Box quantity should be allocated according to the actual items and weight, not just the number of rooms. Books and dishes should go into smaller, lighter boxes, while clothing and bedding can use larger packaging; before sealing, check that the base is secure and the box top can close properly.
One week before: handle living services and access
Arrange changes of address, broadband and water, electricity and gas accounts, or cancellation of these services, in line with each service provider's requirements. Confirm lift booking, parking arrangements and any building works, and notify the moving company of any changes.
For fridges and washing machines, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for emptying, defrosting, draining or securing. Items needing water or electrical disconnection should be arranged in advance with qualified personnel. Keep medicine, ID documents, keys and first-night essentials separately, not packed in with the bulk of the items.
Moving day: hand over while keeping a record
Arrange one contact person who can make decisions for both the old and new homes, and first check the inventory and placement with the team. If any items, addresses or tasks are added at short notice, first confirm whether they can be arranged and the cost before the move proceeds.
Before leaving the old home, check inside cupboards, the balcony, the storage room and behind doors; at the new home, check each item against the box numbers and large-item list. If you find a problem, take photos and record the location first, then contact the company as soon as possible. Do not wait until all packing has been opened before organising the information.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should you start preparing for a move?
From eight weeks ahead, you can sort out the dates and items to keep or remove, then prepare quotations, packing and handover according to the schedule. If the preparation time is shorter, first deal with the dates, route and large items, and prioritise the rest as needed.
If the new home is not yet ready, what should be done about vacating the old home?
First confirm temporary accommodation and essential items, then ask the company about warehouse storage, storage period and return arrangements, to avoid booking only the move-out with nowhere for the items to go afterwards.
When is the best time to start packing?
Start with items used less often and pack daily necessities last. Keep the box number, contents and room list updated, and set aside first-night essentials so they are not mixed into the bulk boxes.
What should you ask the management office before moving?
For both buildings, ask about moving times, lift booking, vehicle registration, unloading location and protection requirements, and pass the restrictions to the moving company for confirmation.
Can I add items or change the date at short notice?
Please notify the company as early as possible to reconfirm the checklist, route, schedule and fees. Do not assume the original arrangement or quote will remain unchanged under all modifications.