How to make your house move in Cardiff smooth & stress-free

 

Moving home is an exciting milestone—whether you're upsizing, relocating within Cardiff, or settling into a new area like Pontcanna, Whitchurch, or Cardiff Bay.

But between packing boxes and updating your address, the process can be stressful without the right support.

At Hern & Crabtree, Cardiff’s trusted estate agents, we know just how important it is to make your move as smooth as possible. Here’s our expert guide with practical tips to take the stress out of moving day.

 

1. Start early – plan ahead

Once your completion date is confirmed, build a moving timeline. Early planning avoids last-minute panic and gives you time to arrange services locally.

 

Key tasks to tick off:

• Notify your gas, electric, water, and internet providers
• Redirect your mail via Royal Mail
• Compare local removals companies in Cardiff
• Start packing non-essential items early
  

The earlier you start, the less last-minute panic you’ll have!

2. Declutter before you pack

Before you box up your belongings, declutter room by room. This is your chance to start fresh in your new home—and reduce moving costs.

Top tip: Cardiff has fantastic charity shops and recycling centres. Donate items in good condition to keep them out of landfill.

 

3. Pack like a pro

Packing can be simple with the right strategy:

• Label boxes clearly with their room and contents
• Keep an ‘Essentials Box’ with items you’ll need on day one (kettle, chargers, toiletries, etc.)
• Protect fragile items with bubble wrap, towels, or bedding

Pro Tip: Number your boxes and keep an inventory list.

 

4. Choose the right removals option

Whether you’re using a removals firm or hiring a van, compare options carefully:

• Read reviews for Cardiff-based removal companies
• Check they’re insured
• Ask for local recommendations

If you're relying on friends, be sure to plan ahead—and don’t forget to provide snacks or even a pizza break!

 

5. Update your address

Make a list of who to inform about your change of address. Don’t forget:

• Banks and building societies
• Cardiff Council and HMRC
• DVLA, your GP, and dentist
• Online retailers and subscription services

 

Bonus Tip: Use Royal Mail’s Redirection Service to catch anything you missed.

 

6. Measure up before moving in

If possible, visit your new home in advance to:

• Measure doorways, stairs, and furniture spaces
• Plan furniture layout
• Locate broadband points and utility meters

 

This can prevent last-minute surprises on moving day.

7. Set up utilities in advance

Contact utility providers ahead of time to transfer or set up new accounts. On moving day:

• Take meter readings at both old and new properties
• Check that Wi-Fi and heating are ready to go

 

Hern & Crabtree’s team can provide guidance on which utilities to contact in your area.

 

8. Don’t forget to eat!

It sounds obvious—but moving day is exhausting! Have water, snacks, and a quick dinner option ready (Cardiff’s takeaways never disappoint).

 

9. Give yourself time

Moving doesn’t end once the van is unloaded. Unpack essentials first and give yourself a few days to settle in. Whether you’re moving to Llandaff or Canton, take time to enjoy your new home—and the journey that got you there.

 

Final thought from Hern & Crabtree

At Hern & Crabtree, we’ve helped thousands of families move across Cardiff and South Wales. With the right planning and expert local support, moving day can be exciting—not stressful.

 

If you’re buying or selling a home in Cardiff, contact us today for friendly advice, trusted property services, and a stress-free experience from start to finish.

 

Call Hern & Crabtree or email us to start your move the right way.