10 Must-Do Things to Prepare the Week Before Your House Move

The week before moving house is often the most stressful phase of the entire relocation process. With multiple tasks to juggle—packing, organising, and last-minute decisions—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. However, by following a structured checklist, you can reduce anxiety and make sure everything is in place for a smooth transition. These must-do tips will help you stay on track during those final seven days.

1. Finalise your moving date and time

Confirm your moving date and time with your chosen relocation company. This ensures that everyone involved, from movers to building management, is aligned. If you're working with professional movers, it’s also a good idea to check in with them to verify any final details—such as parking arrangements or access issues at both locations.

2. Start packing non-essentials

Begin with items you won’t need in the coming week—books, seasonal clothes, décor, and rarely used kitchenware. If you plan to move your entire kitchen, start with the appliances and utensils you seldom use. Label each box clearly with its contents and the room it belongs to. This simple step will save you countless hours during unpacking and help the movers place everything exactly where it belongs.

3. Set aside an essentials box

Prepare a separate box or suitcase containing all the essentials you'll need for the first day and night in your new home. This could include toiletries, basic kitchen items, chargers, clothes, and important documents. Treat this as your “survival kit” and keep it with you on moving day rather than sending it with the movers.

4. Notify key parties of your change in address

Update your address with banks, utilities, mobile service providers, subscription services, and government bodies. Doing this early helps avoid lost mail or service interruptions. Don’t forget to inform your employer, your child’s school (if applicable), and any delivery services you regularly use.

5. Defrost and clean your fridge

If you’re taking your refrigerator with you, remember to defrost it at least 24 hours before moving. Clean it thoroughly to avoid mould and unpleasant odours. Leave the doors open once it’s unplugged to allow it to air out properly.

6. Dispose of unwanted items

The week before moving is the perfect time to declutter. Donate, sell, or discard anything you no longer need. Reducing your load makes the move easier and often cheaper. Many movers with storage facilities can also offer temporary storage solutions if you're not ready to part with certain items just yet.

7. Arrange care for children and pets

Moving day can be chaotic, especially for young children and pets. To keep them safe and reduce stress, arrange for a trusted friend, relative, or sitter to look after them. This way, you can focus on supervising the move without worrying about their well-being.

8. Confirm building access requirements

Check with your current and new building management about moving regulations. Some condominiums and apartments in Singapore require advance booking for lift usage or have designated move-in times. Not securing these slots can cause unnecessary delays on the big day.

9. Take photos of valuable items and electronics

Before packing up your electronics, take pictures of the wiring configurations. This will make reassembly much easier later. Also, photograph any valuable or fragile items to document their condition in case you need to make an insurance claim. Most professional movers handle items with care, but it’s always wise to take precautions.

10. Do a final walkthrough of your current home

Before moving out, walk through every room to ensure nothing has been left behind. Check cabinets, drawers, and storage areas. This is also a good time to patch up minor wall holes or scuffs and leave the place clean and tidy for the next occupants. Returning the property in good condition helps avoid issues with landlords or new buyers.

Final thoughts

Being organised the week before your move can significantly reduce stress and ensure a smoother relocation experience. By staying proactive, confirming important details, and tackling these essential tasks, you’ll set yourself up for success on moving day.

For a hassle-free move backed by experience and reliability, trust the team at Reddot Movers. With our professional approach and end-to-end services, your next relocation will be a seamless and well-supported journey.