You’ve brought your dream home in a new country, and the big day for the move is approaching, but where do you start in getting your entire home ready to move? Here’s a handy guide of things to consider in the month prior to your move to help the day go as smoothly as possible. Sort through your belongings and dispose of anything you no longer use or need. Remember to check thoroughly in all spaces including in the loft, garage or garden shed. As you are moving some electrical appliances might not work or will need adaptors – If you think they aren’t going to work it’s probably best not to take them with you Create a pile of items that you won’t be taking and if suitable donate to a charity shop, gibe away to friends or sell on an online auction – clearing out clutter that you don’t need will not only keep you organised but it will reduce the cost of your move. Check before you arrive in your new country what permits you need to obtain. (e.g. for work, residency, vehicles and driving. Check that all of your family members passports are valid and will remain so at least 12 months after the moving date. If you have pets, contact the veterinary and check on any vaccinations and any documents necessary for transport abroad. Cancel rental agreements and memberships to clubs and associations. Check information on any prescribed medicines that you might be taking Start running down food and drink stocks from your cupboards Make travel arrangement with airline, hotel and car hire agencies Start packing non essentials (things that you aren’t likely to be using) Check your home insurance and make sure you have cover from the day you move into your new house. Notify utility companies about your move (council tax, water, gas, electricity, telephone, internet service provider, cable TV). Schedule last meter reading and disconnection if appropriate but remember to keep services connected at your current home until the last day of the move. Notify your bank and arrange to close or transfer your bank account and make arrangements to open bank and credit card accounts at your destination. You will need to have already requested bank and credit references for use overseas. Notify your doctor, dentist, optician and get copies of your family’s medical records. If you have children, you must notify their schools or colleges and arrange for their records to be transferred to the new school. Cancel subscriptions to newspapers, magazines, book clubs and journals. Confirm the date of your move with the removal company. Let them know if you think they might be last minute changes. Give away plants and perishable items you won’t be taking with you Thoroughly clean any garden or work tools that you wish to take with you.