Get estimates from removal companies, checking that comprehensive insurance cover is available against damage or loss. Is there a packing and unpacking service? Confirm the date of your move to the company you have chosen.

Check your home contents insurance policies to ensure that they are covered for the move and covered at your new address.

Make arrangements for your gas and electricity meters (plus water meters where fitted) to be read and all your appliances to be disconnected on the day of your move.

Arrange to take over gas, electricity and water at your new address and make sure that all appliances will be fitted correctly at then new address.

Notify your telephone provider and ask them to make the necessary arrangements for a final account at your present address, and for taking over or installing new equipment at your new address.

Arrange for change of address cards to be printed.

Confirm all arrangements, times etc. for meter readings, disconnections and reconnections with all authorities.

Make sure you have a good stock of packing materials, including sturdy boxes and plenty of bubble wrap and packing tape.

Begin to throw out unwanted items from attics, wardrobes and so on. What you really don't want you may as well dump now, sell them on e-bay or send to charity. It's a great time to have a good sort out!

Send off change of address cards

Arrange and pay for automatic redirection of your mail.

Cancel and pay for your accounts for routine delivery services, such as milk and papers. Re-arrange for these services at your new address.

Defrost fridges in preparation for the move. If you are taking your freezer, turn it up to maximum for a couple of days before the move.

Complete your packing except for those things you are likely to need over night and prepare a picnic for the following day.

Have a large enough cash 'float' available to deal with unexpected expenses and make sure you have collected documents and valuables together in a safe place.

Strip beds and pack bedding and night clothes

Pack items for washing/toiletries

Take down curtains and any light fittings you are taking

Disconnect cooker and turn off central heating

Read all utility meters

Close and lock all windows and doors

Leave keys as arranged

Banks and Building Societies

Credit companies

Insurance companies

Gas, Electric and Water companies

Home telephone and mobile telephone companies

Local authorities (Council tax)

Driving Licence and Vehicle Licence

Inland Revenue

Store and Credit Cards

Other lease, hire or rental companies

Employer

Doctor

Dentist

Schools

Professional Bodies/Trade Unions

Motoring / Breakdown organisations

Newsagents

Friends and relatives