tips and tricks

Tips and tricks

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Some tips and tricks and advice to make your move easier,
Moving is one of the most stressful full things you will ever do and here at European relocation services we aim to make your move a smooth stress free occasion

So here are a few tips to make your big day go smoothly (including tips for international and Spanish moves )
(the Following tips and trick are based of our experience and are what we think could be useful)

Don't leave your move to the last minute as soon as you know your dates book with your chosen removals company to ensure you secure the services of the company you want
Talking of dates what date do the people move out your new place ? as after all you don't want to try to move in before they move out
In regards the above it is well worth noting that summer is often the busiest period of the year for movers (It is ours ) and they can get booked up fast
It is a good idea to always check a removal companies feedback before you book them here is a link to our Feedback (And there is no harm in fact it is often a good idea to ask for recommendations from people you know and trust on who they used to move ) (if moving overseas many people will ask for recommendations on Facebook in groups for the area they are looking to move too)
It is also a good idea to check a removals companies Terms and conditions
Make a list of the task you need to do EG. sort x out pack y clean the room
And when moving don't try to do everything your self, if there are 4 of you split the task among each other and make sure everyone knows what they are doing (have a list of the tasks )
And have children get them involved with smaller tasks (that way they are involved in the move and don't feel left out ) And make it fun for them an adventure as after all they will be leaving everything they know their friends etc (especially true if moving country )
When you move allow the fridge/freezer at least 4 hours for the gases to settle before you switch it on
Please tape the plug of things like your washing machine / tumble dryer or Fridge to the front (or top or side in the washing machines case ) there are several reason this is a good is a good idea ( 1 it is not trailing when they are been taken to and from the vehicle 2 the cable is under control on the vehicle so is less likely to be trapped or damaged if it got snagged under something (low chance of happening but it is a good idea still to tape the plug as said )
Take a last reading as you leave the house of your electric / Gas / water metre readings and take a picture of them for records purposes
And when you reach your new home take a metre reading as well again take a photograph
As silly as it is remember to turn the gas and electric off (easy to forget ) (as in no lights left on etc )
Have you let the utility companies know your moving ? and on what day ?
Have you let the phone company know your moving ? and what day ? (landline and mobile phone companies )(do they both know )
Have you let your bank know your moving ? the when and where ? as many (not all UK banks will have no problem with you having a for example Spanish address/ French etc) (ask them about it either way )
There are many people and companies you may need to notify your moving and your new address, go though your wallet/purse and look at the cards in there and see which need notifying
Go through your bank account as well in relation to the above tip as well and check which direct debits you need to cancel/amend (Even when moving to Spain/France Etc do this as un cancelled direct debits for services you don't now need will cost you wasted money )
When moving within the UK you can us the Royal mail redirect service to redirect your mail, but even when moving overseas it has it's uses, if a friend or family member is willing to let you redirect your post to them then make use of the service to catch any mail that you get that hasn't either been redirected at the company etc https://www.royalmail.com/personal/receiving-mail/
Even when moving to the likes of France and Spain have you let the Tv licence people now your moving and told them the date (and made sure the direct debit is cancelled from that day)
I would always suggest labeling your boxes that way it is quicker to unpack also don't over fill boxes (But how is it quicker ? see tip 21 below )
Well why is it quicker to unpack if the boxes are labelled well A: they will be in the rooms they go in B: you will be able to say right I need bedroom 2 box 5 next and find it in that room easier
And while boxes been labelled is very important you don't need to be 100% descriptive for example box 6 bedroom 2 Underwear could be 6 Bedroom 2 clothing or just bedroom 2 box 6
Talking of packing boxes use packing tape not sellotape as it is stronger and will keep the boxes sealed better (less risk of it popping open ) *sellotape and parcel tape can also leave marks so always use proper packing tape. It's what it's designed for
Have you any boxes that are packed but not going for example they are going to the local charity shop or are packed for the new owners etc make sure they are not in the same area as the boxes that are going and put a big label on them saying not going
While of course we handle all boxes and furniture with great care labelling boxes is also helpful to us for several reason we will know where to put it at the other end (as we where possible operate an in situ service ) We will also know which boxes can be safely place at the bottom of the box pile on the van
Talking of boxes and how to put them on the removals Vehicle when packing you box, if it needs to sit a certain way up then put a big arrow pointing that way on the box (on all corners/sides of the box )
and it is also best not to mix the contents of boxes ( eg bedroom and living room items in the same box ) as this can slow the packing and unpacking down
If the box has fragile items in it please label it fragile for example Fragile Glass
Talking of glasses have you wrapped them within the box ? the same goes for plates and mugs and the likes
A good source of wrapping material for your glass/mugs etc is newspaper it is easy to get hold of as well
Have you placed crumpled up paper in things like your glasses and mugs ? to help protect them during transport
When packing boxes with things that can break don't leave gaps, so that the breakable items can't move and break within the box. Also if there are gaps in the box when stack the box can despite the removal companies efforts get squashed and again that increase the risk of damage
Please remove the bulb from lamps
Do you have the original box and packing materiel your tv came in ? (quite a lot of people keep hold of them ) if so then pack your tv in it's original box and original packing it is the safest way for it to travel (*so getting a new tv keep hold of the box and packing materials it came in they will come in handy for when you move )
It is a good idea to place the lose detectable cables from things like say the xbox in a seal able bag and label it with what it is for, (or tv's etc )
If you dismantle any items eg wardrobes in advance of your move place the screws in a seal-able bag that you label with what the contents are and what unit/item they go to , and where possible securely tape them to said unit
When packing kitchen items like knifes please ensure the blade is wrapped for everyone's safety. You can use things like Tea towels to wrap the blade, please thou tape the tea towel around the blade and leave the handle visible to people know it is a knife
A further good way to wrap knifes is using the inner of toilet rolls (it might be worth using several), Kitchen rolls or other hard tubes, as they will cover the blade, again tape them to the blade and leave the handle showing
Where possible keep clothes on hangers it make packing and unpacking them quicker as you can handle more at a time
Tape unused coat hangers together ( that way they are easier to handle)
And if you have quite a few Coat hangers your taking (the ones for example your using (eg with cloths on ) after taping them together box them up (*then they are even easier to handle )
Are your suitcases going on the removals vehicle ? if they are are they full ? a good thing to put in them of course is your clothes (make the best use of you space )
Have you drained your washing machine ? Please ensure your washing machine is drained as a little water can go a long way and sometimes an un-drained machine may not release the water for a while and when it does it would be on the vehicle and could damage goods (so please ensure the washing machine is drained )
A good place to put the washing machines pipes when moving is in the drum of the machine and please ensure the machine is drained of water
Black bags can be useful to put soft things in but any items that are heavier are always better of in a box
Please bear in mind that if you 1 over fill a Vacuum bag they can split, when moving , bear in mind that Vacuum bags are only useful to a certain degree , and often can split during moves , clothes are often better off in things like suitcases or clothes bags
I would also suggest when taping the bottom of boxes to tape in a plus shape it will make the bottom stronger so less likely to give way and damage important items
When taping your boxes up it is a good idea to tape to half way down the box not just a past the top as that way when taped half way down the tape is more securely attached to the box
A silly tip but you would be surprised how easy it is easy is to be caught out with this one when using tape don't lose then end as it takes ages to find it , but how ? simple either tape the roll slightly to a surface, or fold the end of the tape over
When packing books remember not to put to many in a box as books get heavy fast and could split the box. But do not keep books loose as they are then to time consuming to move, they make though an idea gap filler in boxes that are not quite full
And if your packing a box full of only books choice a small box so they don't get to heavy (the Same can be said for stuff like records )
Talking of the weight of boxes remember that if a box is to heavy the bottom can split and can as a result result in damaged goods. So when packing ask yourself can Lift the box? yes but it is heavy mark the box heavy.
And at the same time as you lifted that box how does the bottom of the box look is it shagging ? yes then the box is to heavy and will need repacking
When ever possible us a box with a lid/seal-able box, it will make it less likely for any items in the boxes to become lost or misplaced during the move
I would suggest when ever possible to use proper removals boxes that are double walled as they are designed for the weight unlike a crisp box and are therefore stronger
When packing your boxes for your move where possible try to keep as many as possible to uniform sizes eg , small , medium , large etc (Yes some smaller boxes like shoe boxes are helpful at times) this way they will stack easier on the removals vehicle and will enable the space to be better used
Talking of Boxes, many people when moving pack using under bed storage boxes while they can be very handy please be advise that their lids are not designed to have weight stacked on them so can if used when moving be prone to damage (the Lid)
Are your items suitable packed for an international move ? (Europe )
Please ensure all mirrors are wrapped and pay particular attention to the corners as they are sharper and can rip bubble wrap so are the corners reinforced ?
A good and effective way to reinforce the corners is to use a piece of cardboard
have you any pictures or paintings? are they wrapped ? and like mirrors have your reinforced the corners (as picture if not correctly packed for international moves are despite the movers best effort among the most at risk of damage )
Have your cabinets got glass shelves ? please remove the shelves and wrap them following the above mentioned methods for mirrors plus write on their packaging *Glass Fragile *
We have moved many people aboard from the UK while moving in the UK is stressful moving aboard is a whole different set of challenges As a company we have moved people aboard hundreds of occasion(figure keeps going up )( I have personal moved aboard myself twice once to Germany and now I am in Spain ) It can be helpful to know some basic words and phrase in the local lingo
Know the area where your going knowing things like the number for the police 112 here in Spain is very helpful or moving with kids know where the schools are. Know where the hospital is can also be helpful
On any move but practically long distance and international moves keep in touch with the mover and be familiar with their eta ( we keep in touch with customers and will advise of any changes to the Eta (things like the ferry can add unexpected delays that are hard to account for as the port traffic volumes vary massively ) (usually the busiest days at Dover and Calais are Wednesday /Thursday and some times Sunday )
When moving give your mover as accurate an inventory as possible as that way we can have the right tools and numbers of blankets and other protection items to protect your items ( we do carry loads of removals blankets but we can add more if we know we have more fragile or damageable . make able items ) ( no house is ever the same )
Know what boxes the items you need first are in and where possible the mover can unload them first for you. Best way is to say number boxes like kitchen 11 and have a list if needed
Spread your packing out don't pack all in one go but over a period of a few days or if possible weeks that way they will be less left to do the closer you get to the moving day
Always pack the least important items first and leave the most important things until last
(International move tip)Different country's have different cultural norms learn a bit about the country your going to culture will help , For example Spain still has the Siesta normally between 2pm and 4.30pm/5.30pm (Area depending) or a further example for Spain is at the moment Spanish ambulances use amber beacons not blue ones (so look a bit like recovery vans in the mirrors of your car so just keep your eyes peeled )
Remember international moves take longer
Please be advised that there are goods and items that can not be taken into the UK from the EU ( https://www.gov.uk/duty-free-goods/banned-and-restricted-goods )
Please be advised there are goods and items that can not be taken from the UK into the EU (as it stands right now that includes (foods(Meat and Dairy among other things)(In some case plants and the likes https://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/individuals/buying-goods-services-online-personal-use/buying-goods/prohibited-or-restricted-goods_en
Always check that your mover is insured to do the job (We will gladly show you a copy of our insurance )
Remember in Mainland Europe they drive on the opposite side of the road to the UK so remember when crossing the road look the other way to what you would in the UK first
And following on from the above point your car will need deflectors on it's headlamps if it is a British car not to dazzle the other traffic among the places you can buy them is on the ferry they are £8.99 on the +DFDS Seaways UK - English Channel services (correct at time of publishing prices may have changed)
You need a UK sticker instead , and if you have a Gb label on your number `plate it will need covering up (and in Spain you need a UK sticker even if your number plates has the UK plate )
And when travelling though France (which many people relocating to Spain do ) You need a reflective jacket in the car one per person travelling (children included)
Also in France you need an approved Breathalyser in your car
And if moving to Europe (France/Spain/ETC) remember they will have some different road rules ( a few I have referenced here )
Explore your local area you will find shops that are not on the likes of +Google Maps
Shop like a local ( in Spain I am advised that the locals don't buy much meat from Supermarkets as it is more expensive but instead by from the local butcher )
( or 14A )Different country's have different social norms for example the Spanish don't do hand shakes but kiss on the cheeks when greeting people ( An interesting article on this https://www.thelocal.es/20170407/things-foreigners-do-that-make-spaniards-feel-awkward )
Ask your mover as many questions as you feel you need to ( and the only silly question is the one left in asked )
When moving oversea remember that countries in Mainland Europe the electric socket have different plugs so make sure you have sufficient adopters ( count how many electric items your bringing )
It is worth noting that some countries have electricity at different voltages ( not that I am aware of any in mainland Europe but for example the Us has Voltage lower than Europe )
Moving can be very stressful for pets as they don't understand what is going on so don't pack your pets toys and bedding to the day of the move and if they are travelling in a cage on a long move put some clothing that smells of you in their cage
Talking of cages for pet travel if your dog or cat is not use to a cage buy one several weeks in advance so they can get use to it. That way it will be a familiar space come moving day. Let them go in on their own timetable , don't force them but a few ways to help with it can include feeding the in the cage (with door open )(used that one with ours before we moved to Spain)or as suggest by someone throwing a toy like a tennis ball in and playing fetch. There are other ways to of course but as long as they feel it is a safe space that is what matters
I would also suggest putting in your pets cage just before you start the journey their favourite toy (I would say ideally one they either can chew quietly or cuddle up to not one that gets them barmy )
When moving aboard always pack at least a suitcase/small bag with things you will need for the days between the removal as the van/truck will take several days to get from the UK to the likes of Spain (average transit time for our van is 3 days from. loading)
if the removals team is due at say 9 Am have your alarm set for say 7:30am that way you have plenty of time to get dressed and have breakfast and be ready for the team when they arrive. This way you will not need to be rushing around, and rushing around leads / can lead to / increase your stress levels so anything you can do not to be rushing around on moving day will help, you stay more relaxed.
And don't forget to charge your mobile phone up over night , on the night before your move so it is at 100% as who knows if or when you might get chance on moving day to charge it and when you will need it on the day (you will at some point need your mobile on moving day )
I would also strongly suggest going to bed the night before your move a bit earlier than normal , as in many peoples case it can be a bit harder to sleep , so this way you should with the extra time in bed get at least your normal sleep if not more
Never have any packing left to do on the morning of the ,move (expect a for breakfast pots/dishes and the kettle and a few mugs (as said before never pack the kettle til the last moment ) (also if you have booked a packing service you can sorta ignore this tip but don't even then have any packing left of the items you may have chosen to pack yourself)
For the most up to date advice regarding pet travel rules always speak to your vet they are in the best position to advice you
If your taking your Pet to Spain / France Etc know the local laws on animals as they may be different from the UK
Have you updated your pets Microchip with your new details at the micro chip company ? remember to do that Plus a pet must be Micro chipped anyway for their pet passport
In fact in Spain your dog must be registered with a vet who will register them with the government
And talking of Pet passports when moving aboard make sure you get your pet a new or updated pet passport so that it is up to date with your pets latest details
It is often worth getting your locks changed at your new home as it is possible for keys to go missing and be unaccounted for and the likes
When you reach your new home you will have a lot of unpacking to do, so have you packed a small bag with the essentials (tea bags, coffee, milk, toilet rolls and the likes ) so that you have them to hand before you start unpacking. And if you have pets (dogs/Cats etc) don't forget to keep a few treats for them in that bag and some food for there first meal at the new home (go Bag as some call them)
Talking of things like Go bags and the likes (some clothes as well) etc, the things that you need for during your travels and the like put them in your car before the movers arrive so there is no risk of them been accidentally been put on the removals vehicle as after all moving day is very busy and fast paced
(not applicable for Spain ) when moving overseas are there any local restrictions on the days you can move? What I mean is using Switzerland as an example you can't do a house move on Sundays , it is also on this note worth noting that Spain , France and a few other countries have Sunday driving bans for vehicles over 7.5 tons (so our van can still move )(but trucks can't )
When you where visiting / viewing your new home did you notice any access issues (for large vehicles like large vans and lorries ) Yes/no if yes be sure to advise your mover as is important info and will enable us to plan the mover better as we can have the right tools or kit or extra people etc (And yes this is a question we will ask during the quoting stage)
Regarding Flat pack furniture it is worth noting that flat pack wardrobes and the likes are often once assembled larger than the door frame, as they are often taller, so please note that they may need taken apart to be removed from the room. But for us that is of course a last resort as often when put back together they may not always be as strong
When you move in to your new home it is well worth checking that you have a smoke alarm and that it works (it can after all save your live )
Have you a new evacuation plan for your new home ? yes brill no make one. And does everyone know it ? (hopefully you will never need it but if you do it can be a life saver )
Do you know where and when to evacuate if your area (in Europe and likes) has a major forest fire (which are rare that they get to the evacuation point ) (* do not ever in the event of a forest/bush land fire evacuate until the emergency services tell you as it is actually dangerous for various reasons )
Got a mattress you need to store ? Don't store it stood up right as after a while it will start to flop or bend Store it in a way that it can bend or sag so if possible against a wall and with a hard board at the front to stop that Or store then on their sides
Remember do not pack the kettle until last and unpack it first so that you can have a relaxing hot drink as often as needed on the moving day. And as long as it was the last thing on the moving Vehicle it will be first off
When moving to a new area it is a good idea to join the local facebook groups so you can benefit from the local knowledge and stuff like ask who is a good plumber or the likes
When moving overseas/aboard remember that every country has different laws to each other so be sure to be familiar with local laws
If your moving items into storage remember black bags are not good for long term storage as they can after a while start disintegrating so please use boxes (connects also into using boxes over bags where ever possible tip)
It is also worth noting that a cubic metre is 100cm by 100cm by 100cm and is an volume (may also hear cubic feet (apx 35.31 cubic feet to a cubic metre ) and that cubic metre and square metre are not the same thing (Removals normally work in cubic (volume ) and many storage companies work in square which is area (click the cubic metre link at the bottom for more info)
So as we have said make sure everything your taking is Labelled , but if there are things your not taking put a big leave it label on them
And regarding the above tip about items your not taking if you have an empty room put them in there away from the items you are taking
Packing things that might leak but can't be drained , toiletries and the likes, I would suggest firstly placing them in a seal-able bag then placing them in a seal-able lidded plastic box and mark the box as containing things that could leak so they can be placed in a location on the moving vehicle furthest away from things that they might damage if they leak
Please be advised that due to Brexit we will as of the 1st January 2021 need a bit more information on the inventory here is a handy link to help you on that
Please note that the Customs Value for your goods/belongings is not the same as the insurance value and as a rule is often lower
If your returning to the Uk from Overseas/aboard you will need to do a Tor (Transfer of Residency) www.gov.uk/guidance/application-for-transfer-of-residence-relief-tor1
If your moving to our from Europe (or within Europe eg Spain to France ) it is very important that you make sure the mover you pick has an O licence (issue by the country they are registered in ) (Eg UK for Uk companies )They need an Standard international O licence ( https://youtu.be/6HuaEBeVxv0 )

(not a Tip )
We aim to ring any customer when we are about 30 minutes away from both ends to confirm the eta we have given you

We have a helpful little guide to writing your inventory for your move click HERE
We have a helpful blog article here on how to make moving with your pets less stressful
Here are a few tips for making moving less stressful for your children
Read here about the advantages of using a professional mover over self moving
Here are a few tips on decluttering before your big move
Here are some general tips for moving oversea/aboard
What is a cubic metre ?
some tips for putting items into Storage
What should be in your Moving plan ?
What additional information do we need on the inventory due to Brexit
Find attached the link to the form required for our Spanish Customs agent to act for you
What is an EORI number?
How to work out your customs value
Find a summary of the customs process for moving to Spain or back from Spain to the UK
Some information on the tors (Transfer of Residency )

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Tips and tricks

Got any tips or tricks you found while moving you want to share?