How to prepare for your house move in Manchester: A step by step timeline

Manchester is not just about its iconic football legacy; it is also known for its rich history, culture and modern living like no other in the UK. Moving to Manchester can be exciting but the moving process itself can feel overwhelming.

Whether you’re moving  for work, study or a fresh start, staying organised is the key to a smooth transition. 

With our industry experience in storage and removals across the UK, we have curated the ultimate moving checklist to help you prepare efficiently before your move to your new home in Manchester.

The 3D’s: declutter, decide, ditch

Before you start packing, take time to go through your belongings– both old and new. 

Ask yourself whether you really need each item before moving to your new home or if they were impulsive purchases better suited for someone else.

 Sort your belongings into four categories:

1. Keep – Essential everyday items, items of emotional significance and family heirlooms.

2. Donate – Clothes that you have used in the last 6 months, old books and furniture such as a crib or a bicycle that is not needed by your kids anymore.  

Note: Donate only items that are in usable condition

3. Sell – Items that serve no purpose or aesthetic value. List them on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, eBay or Gumtree. Alternatively, in Manchester, you can sell your items at local spots like:

1. Manchester Arndale Market – Situated in the heart of the city, this market offers stalls for rent where you can sell second hand goods.
2. The Makers Market – Held at Spinningfields and other locations around Manchester, this market is perfect for selling second hand or unique items.
3. Levenshulme Market – A local community market held on Saturdays in Levenshulme, where you can sell pre-loved items like clothes, books and furniture.

4. Recycle/dispose – Any broken or unusable items.

Expert’s tip: If you haven’t used an item in the past year, you probably won’t use it in your new house in Manchester either

Once you have decluttered, take advantage of the professional packing services offered by Pickfords to make the process even smoother and less time consuming.

Your moving timeline checklist

 4 weeks before the move

• Sort and declutter your belongings.
• Start organising non essential items such seasonal clothes, books and decor
• Research and book a professional removal service. Ensure the professional holds an expertise in navigating through specific house moves.
• Arrange for child or pet care on moving day if needed.
• Ensure you have all important documents and transfer papers ready, so it's easy to access on moving day if needed.
• Begin using up perishable food items to avoid waste. It also helps save space in the removal process. 
• Check property access at both homes and inform your removal company

Manchester’s neighbourhoods each have their own unique charm and with that comes a variety of road layouts.

In some areas especially in the city centre streets may be narrower or more compact, which is important to consider when planning vehicle access on moving day.

Some areas to consider:

• Northern Quarter – Characterised by charming cobbled streets and a vibrant atmosphere
  
• Ancoats – A trendy district with scenic canal side roads and a mix of modern and heritage buildings
  
• Chorlton – A lively suburb with a close knit community and smaller residential streets
  
• Didsbury – Known for its green surroundings and quiet, tree lined lanes

For high-rise buildings like Deansgate Square, Spinningfields, Castlefield, Salford Quays, check in advance whether:

• Whether there is a lift available.
• Which floor you’ll be moving to.
• Any building guidelines or restrictions for moving large items.

Tip: You may need a parking permit in areas like the Northern Quarter, Deansgate, and Chorlton. Contact the local council ahead of time.

2 weeks before the move

• Pack kitchenware not needed for regular purpose, extra bedding and items you don’t need for the moment.
• Notify utility providers about your move.
• Update your address with banks, insurance providers and any other subscription services.
• Set up your mail redirection via Royal Mail.
• Arrange temporary self storage if required especially for seasonal items and heirlooms.
• Start deep cleaning your belongings as you pack.
• Confirm moving day logistics with your removal company.

1 week before the move

• Pack all but the absolute essentials.
• Arrange time with professionals to disassemble large furniture ahead of time. If needed, arrange parking permits for moving trucks.
• Start to defrost the fridge and freezer.
• Set aside a moving essentials box –  toiletries, chargers, snacks and basic kitchen items.
• Pack a suitcase with clothes for the first few days. 
• If you have small children , prepare a separate suitcase with their immediate essentials for the moving day.

A day before the move

• Keep all valuables, documents and essentials with you in a separate, easy to carry bag.
• Charge your phone and keep contacts for movers handy.
  

Prepare for the moving day

Ensure everything goes smoothly with these final steps:

✔ Do a final home walkthrough – Ensure nothing is left behind. 

✔  Keep valuables and essentials with you – Documents, jewelry and keys should be easily accessible.

✔ Check your new home’s readiness – Are utilities connected?

✔ ️Plan your travel – If moving from another city, book transport in advance.

Moving day hack: Pack a bag with ready to eat food items. Moving day gets chaotic and food often becomes a low priority.

Conclusion

Moving to Manchester is a big step, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation and the support of a reliable removal partner, you can enjoy the exciting transition into one of the UK’s most bustling cities.

Let Pickfords help you settle in smoothly, we’re here to make your move simple and efficient.
Ready to make a hassle free move? Get in touch with us to get started today