Hints & Removals Guides

ABC Movers & Storers know what things to consider when moving and provide solutions for your move. Click on the links below for details about each area of consideration.

Disconnect your appliances
Our staff are not authorised to disconnect such items as cookers and washing machines unless special arrangements are made with our estimator. We therefore recommend that you organise this with a plumber and the appropriate Gas and Electricity Board.
Heavy items
Secure the drum of your washing machine. Freezers need not be defrosted unless going into storage but it will be very useful if you could place all your frozen food into strong polythene bags which can be quickly removed and replaced when carrying the freezer.
Fixtures
Please ensure you remove all fixtures and fittings that you intend to take with you.
Loft
You should normally clear out the loft yourself, unless otherwise previously arranged.
Outbuildings
All garden and garage tools should be prepared in such a way that they can be easily and quickly carried to the van.
Garden
Please let us know if any plants are to be moved. In this case they should be made secure and watertight. Swings and climbing frames should be dismantled in advance with all relevant bolts safely retained.

Heavy items
When packing, give a thought to our poor staff! Books, for example, can be very heavy and should be evenly distributed and mixed with lighter items.
Labelling
Mark each box with details of the contents. Please also clearly label anything that you will be taking with you in your own car and also anything that is to remain behind.
Packing cartons
These will be delivered to you in good time before your move following your discussions with our estimator. Please ensure when packed, both the top and bottom of the cartons are securely sealed with packing tape.
Self-assembly
We suggest that you dismantle self-assembly furniture as it tends to be not as strong as regular furniture unless previously arranged with our estimator.
Delicate items
Glass and china items should be individually wrapped in packing paper and lighter items should be placed on top of heavier items. Try to pack vertically, if possible. Tiny objects should be wrapped in tissue and kept in a specially marked box. Ensure liquids are in leak-proof containers and are not flammable.

Electricity, gas and water
Ensure the appropriate meter readings are taken and that disconnections and re-connections are made at the right time.
Telephone
Arrange for your account to be rendered on moving day and organise the relevant connections with the local telephone companies.
Post Office
To redirect your mail you should contact the Royal Mail at least one week before moving. TV licences should also be amended, as should pension books, if necessary.
Property Tax
Notify local authorities with regard to your property tax.
Libraries
Return all relevant books and cards.
Schools
Advise all relevant authorities about your change of address.
Medical
Your doctor, dentist, the DSS and possibly private health companies and hospital clinics all need to know you are moving.
Insurance
Don’t forget your contents and motor insurance.
Motoring
Notify the DVLA, as well as any relevant motoring organisations.
Income tax
Inform your Inland Revenue Department.
Bank
Advise your bank and/or your building society and amend your standing orders and direct debits. Don’t forget to notify the relevant companies, too.
Employer
Ensure you advise your new address in writing.
Credit cards
Fill in the change of address section when making your next payment. Remember HP companies, Premium Bonds, shares and football pools, as well.
Subscriptions
You should advise all relevant organisations, publishers and mail order companies.
Friends and family
Don’t forget to tell them!

Furniture
We protect all your furniture where necessary.
Clothing
Hanging garments can be packed into wardrobe cartons which we can supply to keep your clothes clean and crease-free. Likewise, other clothing and non-breakable objects can be left in drawers.
Carpets
If possible, release the edges. We’ll roll them up at the appropriate time.
Pets and children
As they say in the film industry, never work with animals or children! Younger children are best left with a neighbour or friend until it is time to go. Pets, cannot travel in our lorries and vans due to hygiene and health and safety.

Utilities
Make sure water and electricity supplies are turned off.
Doors and windows
Check that everything is locked and secure.
Personal items
Take all your important personal items with you.
Keys
Hand over your house keys to the new owner, estate agent or solicitor etc.
Miscellaneous
The above list may not be complete in your case. What about telling any local clubs, for example?