Four Week Moving Abroad Checklist

Moving abroad? Here’s your four-week checklist of jobs to complete before the big day

So you’re moving to a different country, which seemed like a good idea to start with but now you haven’t got a clue how to begin packing up your life in the UK in advance of starting a new one abroad. There’s a whole host of things that you need to remember to take care of before you leave – this should be a fairly comprehensive list but you never know what else might crop up to be dealt with…

4 weeks before the move:

• Throw out, give away or donate the possessions you will not be taking to your new home.
• Clear out the attic, basement or garage.
• Make sure your passports, international driving licenses (if required) and visas are valid and in order.
• Inform your solicitor and ensure that you have copies of your will, medical and dental records.
• Inform your bank and change accounts if necessary.
• Find out about potential quarantine regulations if you’re taking pets with you.

3 weeks before the move:

• Cancel your newspaper, magazine and general mail subscriptions.
• Arrange for electricity, gas and telephone services to be cut off.
• Tell schools and ensure that copies of reports and certificates are obtained.
• Collect work permits, tax records and other relevant documentation.

2 weeks before the move:

• Put aside valuable or personal items you wish to carry with you during the move.
• Return any rented or borrowed items.
• Dispose of any toxic chemicals (oil paints, aerosol cans) and pack garden tools according to regulations.
• Dismantle large furniture.

1 week before the move:

• Start emptying fridge and freezer.
• Go through details of the move with your representative.
• Get your foreign currency.
• Begin packing personal luggage.

On the day of the move:

• Double-check all of the rooms to ensure nothing has been accidentally left by the removals team.
• Liaise with your representative to ensure there are no more tasks to be completed.
• Switch off power and water.
• Hand over your house keys to the estate agent.