First-time movers
First-Time Mover Guide
Moving out for the first time? Here is the plain-English checklist for tenancy agreements, deposits, utilities, budgeting and moving day itself.
Moving out for the first time
Everything Nobody Tells You About Your First Move
Your first move is rarely about furniture. It is about deposits, contracts, meter readings and a budget that has to stretch further than you expected. This guide walks through each stage in order, so nothing lands on you at the last minute.
When it comes to the move itself, most first-timers need a single van and one or two movers — not a full removals crew. We quote small first moves honestly and never charge for space you do not use.
The four stages of a first move
1. Paperwork and tenancy
- Read the full tenancy agreement before signing
- Confirm the deposit is in a government-approved scheme
- Get the inventory in writing and photograph every room
- Check the notice period and who handles repairs
2. Budget properly
- Deposit (typically 5 weeks' rent) plus first month up front
- Rent, council tax, energy, water, broadband and contents insurance
- £300–£600 for furnishing and kitchen basics
- Removals — a small first move is usually 2–3 hours of van time
3. Set up utilities
- Take meter readings the day you move in
- Register with the existing energy and water suppliers, then switch
- Tell the council you have moved for council tax
- Book broadband early — installation can take two weeks
4. Pack and move
- Declutter first — do not pay to move things you will not use
- Use proper boxes and label by room
- Pack a first-night bag with bedding, toiletries and chargers
- Book your van and crew two to three weeks ahead
Your moving out timeline
4 weeks before
Confirm your move-in date, start decluttering and get removals quotes.
3 weeks before
Book your removals slot and order broadband installation.
2 weeks before
Buy boxes and start packing anything you will not need day to day.
1 week before
Update your address with your bank, employer, GP and the DVLA.
Moving day
Take meter readings, photograph the property and check the inventory.
First week
Register for council tax, set up utility accounts and unpack room by room.
First-home essentials
- Bedding, duvet, pillows and towels
- Basic pots, pans, plates and cutlery
- Kettle, toaster and a few storage tubs
- Cleaning kit, bin bags and toilet roll
- Extension leads, light bulbs and a basic toolkit
- First-aid kit and any medication
- Important documents: ID, tenancy, bank details
Buy the basics before moving day and pack them last so they come off the van first.
First-time mover questions
What should I check before signing a tenancy agreement?
Check the length of the fixed term, the notice period, how much deposit is taken and which scheme protects it, whether bills are included, and any restrictions on pets, guests or decorating. Ask for the inventory in writing and photograph the property on move-in day.
How much money do I need to move out for the first time?
Budget for a deposit (usually 5 weeks' rent), the first month's rent in advance, removals, and £300–£600 for essentials such as bedding, kitchen basics and cleaning supplies. Having one month's living costs spare is a sensible safety net.
Which utilities do I need to set up?
Electricity, gas, water, broadband and council tax. Take meter readings on the day you move in, register with the existing suppliers straight away, then switch if you find a better tariff.
Do I need a removals company for a first move?
Most first moves are small enough for a 1 man + van service from £60/hour. It is usually cheaper and far less stressful than hiring a van yourself, and your items are handled by an experienced mover.
How far in advance should I book removals?
Two to three weeks is comfortable. End of month, Fridays and bank holiday weekends are the busiest slots, so book earlier if your date falls on one of those.
Ready for your first move?
Tell us your collection and delivery addresses, your date and roughly what you are bringing. We will send a clear price with no hidden extras.
Keep planning
Our full moving checklist and cost guide go deeper on timings and budgets.