Before the crew arrives

The useful work happens before the van is on the street. This is the list we wish every home had finished. The job itself is booked as a house removal.

The house

Boxes closed, labelled and in a sensible place, not blocking the stair. Drawers emptied of bottles and breakables. Fridge empty, off and dry. Beds stripped if you are taking the linen in the car. Shed and loft either on the list and accessible, or already cleared.

Walk the path the crew will use. Move cars from the drive if the van needs it. In Bilton and on Harlow Hill a drive often solves parking. In the town centre, and on lanes towards Hampsthwaite, you may need a thought about where the van can legally stop. Check the signs. Speak to North Yorkshire Council if a suspension is required. Do this before the morning.

Paperwork you keep

Reserve the folder you will carry yourself: passports, documents, medicines, jewellery, and the numbers for the estate agent. Take meter readings. Arrange the post. Tell the council you are moving. None of that is our job, and none of it should be in a box under the sofas.

If children or pets are safer at a relative’s house for the morning, arrange that. A clear hall is faster and calmer.

People and keys

Someone who can answer questions should be present at both ends, or available by phone. If completion is at a fixed time, tell us. We arrive for the slot on the quote. We do not hold the other side’s keys unless you have set that up.

Insurance is provided. Mention any item you want noted. Then get a free quote with the real list, not a smaller one.