Moving Home to Loughborough: A Guide to House Removals and What You Might Overlook
When it comes to moving home, few things are as exciting and stressful as the process of packing up your life and starting anew. Whether you’re moving from a nearby village or relocating from a busy city, house removals are an integral part of the experience. Loughborough, a vibrant market town in Leicestershire, has become a popular destination for those seeking a blend of tranquillity and connectivity to larger cities like Leicester and Nottingham. The town’s proximity to excellent schools, green spaces, and excellent transport links makes it a desirable place to settle down.
While the logistics of shifting your belongings seem straightforward at first glance, there are plenty of details that often slip through the cracks, and you might overlook some important aspects of the move. So, here’s a guide to ensure your move to Loughborough is as smooth as possible—and a reminder to think beyond just packing boxes.
The Obvious: Packing and Transporting
Let’s start with the basics. You’ll need sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, tape, and ideally, a professional removals company to take care of the heavy lifting. Many people don’t realise the impact the sheer amount of stuff they own will have on a move. As a result, sorting through belongings, deciding what to keep, and even dealing with the sentimental items that might not fit in your new home is essential.
Removals companies in Loughborough are well-versed in local logistics and can offer additional services such as temporary storage, packing assistance, or even disassembling and reassembling furniture. It’s a good idea to research companies well in advance, as the peak moving seasons—typically summer and weekends—can get quite busy.
Don’t Forget About Utilities and Services
An often overlooked part of moving house is sorting out the utilities and services before you step into your new home. When you arrive in Loughborough, the last thing you want is to realise that your gas, electricity, or broadband isn’t up and running.
- Electricity and Gas: Contact your energy provider at least two weeks before the move to arrange for a change of address. It’s important to give meter readings on the day you leave your old property and also the day you arrive at the new one. This will prevent you from being overcharged or receiving incorrect bills.
- Broadband and Phone Line: Loughborough is well-connected, but it’s worth checking with your internet provider to ensure a smooth transition. Fibre-optic broadband is common in the area, but if you’re moving to a more rural spot, you may need to verify speeds or set up a new connection.
- Council Tax and Local Services: Updating your council tax details is another crucial task. Don’t forget to check on any other local services such as recycling schedules and which bin goes out when, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Loughborough’s system.
The Hidden Costs: Not Just Boxes and Bubbly Wrap
Moving often comes with hidden costs that many people don’t anticipate. Beyond the removals company fees, there are several expenses to factor in when moving to a new home in Loughborough.
- Home Insurance: It’s easy to overlook but ensuring your new home is covered with the right insurance is crucial. The last thing you want after moving is discovering you have insufficient coverage for unforeseen damages or theft.
- Parking Permits and Road Restrictions: Loughborough is a bustling town with plenty of residential areas, and some may have restrictions or require parking permits for moving trucks. Always confirm parking arrangements in advance to avoid any fines or delays.
- Renovation Costs: Even if you love your new house, there may be a few things that need sprucing up. Whether it’s repainting walls, replacing flooring, or installing new fixtures, unexpected renovation costs can add up quickly.
Organising Your New Space
Once you’ve moved in, it’s easy to get caught up in the chaos of unpacking and setting up. However, it’s also important to take time to consider the layout and functionality of your new home.
Loughborough boasts a variety of homes, from Victorian terraced houses to modern new builds. Regardless of the style, it’s worth taking a moment to decide where things like furniture, artwork, and daily-use items will go. Unpacking without a plan can lead to frustration and wasted space. This is also a good opportunity to check if any DIY tasks need attention.
Getting to Know the Neighbourhood
Loughborough’s charm lies in its community spirit and the wide array of amenities it offers. Once you’ve settled in, take time to explore and get familiar with your new surroundings.
- Shopping: The town centre has a variety of local shops, supermarkets, and boutiques. There’s also the renowned Loughborough Market, which has been a fixture for over 800 years. It’s a great place to pick up fresh produce and artisan goods.
- Transport: Loughborough benefits from excellent transport links, including a railway station that connects to major cities. Make sure to familiarise yourself with the bus routes, local cycle paths, and nearby motorway access.
- Green Spaces: Loughborough is home to beautiful parks and nature reserves, such as Queen’s Park and the Outwoods, where you can relax and enjoy the outdoors. Having green space close by can make a huge difference in your daily life.
Final Thoughts
Moving to Loughborough offers a wonderful opportunity to settle in a town that combines the charm of traditional market town living with modern conveniences. However, as with any move, there’s more to consider than just getting from A to B. By planning ahead and considering the often-overlooked aspects of a move—like utilities, parking permits, hidden costs, and even getting to know your neighbourhood—you can ensure that your move is a seamless and enjoyable experience. Welcome to Loughborough!
