Checklist before moving and carrying help

The week before

• Declutter first, pack second – what you do not move, nobody has to carry.
• Get boxes in two sizes: small for books and heavy items, larger for light textiles.
• Decide where a trailer or van can park, both at departure and arrival.
• Check whether the lift needs to be booked or protected.

Pack to be carried

One person should be able to lift a box without bending over it. Put heavy things in small boxes and top them with something light. Tape the bottom crosswise and label every box with the room and “heavy” or “fragile”.

Furniture and large items

• Empty chests of drawers and wardrobes – full drawers are heavy and break.
• Take apart what you can and keep screws in a labelled bag taped to the piece.
• Measure doors and stairs if you are unsure something fits through.
• Protect floors and door frames with blankets or cardboard.

On moving day

• Keep a clear path from the home to the vehicle.
• Show what goes and what stays before carrying starts.
• Keep valuables, documents, medicines and chargers with you.
• Have water available – it is heavy work.

What to include in the task

State the floor, whether there is a lift, the rough number of boxes and which large furniture needs carrying. Heavy specialist items such as pianos or safes need special equipment – mention them clearly so the provider can judge whether the task suits them.