Before Your Man and Van Arrives
A short final check can prevent the parking, packing and inventory problems that slow a move down.
Make the first hour count.Confirm the route, access and load before the van leaves for you.Recheck the booking
Confirm collection and delivery postcodes, door or flat numbers, date, mover count and vehicle. If the inventory has grown, tell us before moving day.
Make everything ready to carry
- Seal and label boxes.
- Disconnect appliances that are being moved.
- Remove loose shelves and secure doors.
- Keep hallways and stairs clear.
- Separate items that are not going in the van.
Confirm parking at both addresses
Know where the van can legally stop and how far that point is from the entrance. If you need a bay suspension, estate loading slot or concierge booking, arrange it in advance.
Keep your phone available
The driver may need to contact you about traffic, parking or the exact entrance. A missed call can turn a simple arrival into a delay.
Walk the carrying route
Move shoes, plants, pet bowls and loose items out of the way. Protect vulnerable flooring if the weather is poor.
Related guides
Keep planning your move
Questions
Frequently asked questions
When should I report extra items?
As soon as you know. Extra volume can affect van size and duration.
Do I need to reserve parking?
It depends on the road and property. Check local rules and building arrangements at both addresses.
Should furniture be dismantled before arrival?
If you are doing it yourself, yes. If it is part of the service, request it in advance.
The final 30-minute check
Make the property ready for immediate loading
The team should be able to start moving as soon as the van arrives. A few simple checks prevent avoidable waiting and confusion.
Confirm the exact entrance
For flats, estates and large buildings, the postcode may cover several entrances. Send the door number, building name and any service entrance instructions so the driver does not lose time finding the correct loading point.
Make sure the inventory still matches
Moves often grow during the final week. Extra boxes are rarely a problem, but an additional wardrobe, sofa or appliance can change the required van space. Update the booking before the vehicle is dispatched.
Protect the carrying route
Move plants, shoes, coat stands and loose cables away from hallways and stairs. If floors are vulnerable, prepare suitable protection before heavy traffic begins.
Prepare furniture that is being dismantled
If you are dismantling furniture yourself, complete it before arrival. If dismantling is part of the booked service, empty the furniture and make sure the team can access it easily.
Have parking ready
If a bay suspension, permit or private space has been arranged, keep the confirmation available. Move your own car if it is reserving the best loading position.
Keep decision-makers reachable
If the person who booked the move will not be present, make sure someone on site can answer questions about what is going, what stays and where items should be placed at the destination.
Final preparation
Useful pages for the last few days
Ready to plan your move?
Send both postcodes, your inventory or photos and access details for a clear quotation.