Moving house doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right planning, preparation, and professional support, your move can be smooth, efficient, and stress-free.
At TransScot Removals, we handle house moves across Glasgow, North Lanarkshire, and South Lanarkshire every week. This guide breaks down exactly how to prepare for your move, step by step, based on real-world experience — not theory.
At a glance: House Move Preparation Checklist
- Plan your move 4–6 weeks in advance
- Book a professional removal survey
- Declutter before packing
- Decide between self-packing or professional packing
- Label boxes clearly
- Prepare essentials for moving day
1. Start Planning Early (Ideally 4–6 Weeks Before Moving Day)
One of the biggest causes of moving stress is leaving things too late.
As soon as your moving date is confirmed, create a simple timeline:
- Confirm your moving date
- Book a professional removal company
- Decide what items you are taking, selling, or disposing of
- Arrange packing materials or a packing service
Early planning gives you flexibility and avoids last-minute panic.
2. Book a Professional Removal Survey
A proper home or video survey is essential for an accurate quote.
A survey allows your removal company to:
- Assess volume and access
- Identify large or fragile items
- Plan the correct vehicle size and crew
- Avoid surprises on moving day
At TransScot Removals, we offer free home surveys and video surveys, making it easy to get an accurate quote without guesswork.
3. Declutter Before You Pack
Packing items you no longer need wastes time, money, and space.
Before packing:
- Donate usable items to charity
- Sell unwanted furniture or appliances
- Dispose of broken or obsolete items responsibly
Less clutter means:
- Faster packing
- Lower moving costs
- Easier unpacking in your new home
4. Decide Who Will Pack (You or the Professionals)
You have two main options:
- Self-packing – cheaper but time-consuming
- Professional packing – faster, safer, and insured
Professional packing is highly recommended if you have:
- Fragile items
- Large households
- Limited time
- Valuable or sentimental belongings
If you self-pack, always use strong boxes and proper protective materials.
5. Label Boxes Clearly and Logically
Clear labelling saves hours on moving day.
Best practice:
- Label each box with the destination room
- Mark fragile items clearly
- Keep essentials separate (see below)
This helps movers place boxes correctly and makes unpacking far easier.
6. Prepare an Essentials Box
Pack a box that stays with you, containing:
- Important documents
- Medication
- Phone chargers
- Toiletries
- Kettle, mugs, and basic kitchen items
- A change of clothes
This avoids frustration on your first night in the new property.
7. Prepare Your Property for Moving Day
Before the movers arrive:
- Defrost and empty fridge/freezer
- Disconnect appliances if required
- Clear hallways and staircases
- Reserve parking if necessary
- Keep pets and children safe and out of the way
Good access allows the move to be completed efficiently and safely.
8. Understand Payment and Timing Clearly
Always confirm:
- Deposit requirements
- When the remaining balance is due
- Accepted payment methods
With TransScot Removals:
- A 25% deposit secures your booking
- The balance is paid on moving day
- Klarna and Clearpay are available (full amount paid in advance via provider)
Clarity prevents misunderstandings later.
9. Communicate Clearly on the Day
Stay available on moving day to:
- Answer questions
- Confirm item placement
- Highlight fragile or priority items
Good communication ensures everything goes exactly where it should.
Final Thoughts: A Calm Move Is a Planned Move
Most moving stress comes from uncertainty and rushed decisions. By planning ahead, choosing a reliable removal company, and preparing properly, your house move can be straightforward and hassle-free.
If you’re planning a move in Glasgow or Lanarkshire and want professional support from start to finish, a free survey is the best place to start.
Planning a house move in Glasgow?
Contact TransScot Removals today for a free home or video survey and a clear, no-obligation quote.



