Packing gets all the attention, but the admin is what catches people out. Miss the DVLA and you risk a fine of up to £1,000. Miss your insurer and a claim could be refused.
Here is the full list, grouped by urgency, based on the questions our crews get asked most often on moving day.
Tell these before you move
- Royal Mail redirection — set it up at least five working days ahead. It is the safety net for everything you forget.
- Your local council — both the one you are leaving and the one you are moving to, for council tax and the electoral roll.
- Utility suppliers — gas, electricity and water. Take meter readings on the day.
- Broadband and phone — often the longest lead time of the lot. Book the new line early.
- Buildings and contents insurance — your cover must be live at the new address from completion day.
Financial and legal
- Banks, building societies and credit cards
- Mortgage provider
- Pension providers and any investments
- Student loans
- HMRC
- Your solicitor or conveyancer
Government and healthcare
- DVLA — driving licence and vehicle log book (V5C). Both are legally required and both are free to update.
- GP, dentist and optician
- Any repeat prescription service
- Passport office, if your passport is due for renewal
- DWP, if you claim any benefits
Work, school and everyday
- Employer's HR or payroll
- Schools, nurseries and colleges
- Vet — especially important if you are moving with animals
- Car, pet and life insurance
- Subscriptions and deliveries — anything on a recurring order
- Gym, clubs and memberships
- Online shopping accounts and saved delivery addresses
A simple way to work through it
- Go through the last three months of bank statements. Every recurring payment is an organisation that has your address.
- Check the last month of post before you leave — anything addressed to you needs updating.
- Do the legally required ones first: DVLA, council, insurer.
- Set the Royal Mail redirection to run for at least six months, and keep a note of anything that arrives on it.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Royal Mail redirection take to set up?
Allow at least five working days before your move date. You can redirect post for three, six or twelve months.
Do I have to tell the DVLA when I move?
Yes. Updating your driving licence and V5C log book is a legal requirement and it is free. Failing to do so can result in a fine.
When should I do all this?
Start about four weeks out, alongside decluttering and booking your removal company. Leaving it to the final week is what causes the panic.
Planning a move in Hull or East Yorkshire?
Hardakers have been moving families and businesses across Hull, Beverley, Cottingham, Hessle and the East Riding since 1870. Call 01482 323069, request a free quote or get in touch and we will talk you through your options — no obligation.
