Moving House in Leicester and Leicestershire: Your Essential Guide
Moving house in Leicester or Leicestershire is an exciting new chapter in life, but it can also be a stressful and complex process. Whether you’re relocating to Leicester, moving within the city, or shifting to one of the beautiful towns and villages in Leicestershire, the task requires careful planning and preparation. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about moving house in Leicester and Leicestershire, from choosing the right area to finding reliable movers.
Why Choose Leicester and Leicestershire?
Leicester, the county city of Leicestershire, is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and thriving economy. As one of the largest cities in the East Midlands, it offers a great range of amenities, excellent transport links, and a vibrant community. Whether you’re relocating for work, education, or simply a change of scenery, Leicester and the surrounding villages provide a variety of housing options to suit all needs.
The beauty of Leicestershire lies in its blend of urban and rural living. You can choose from the bustling city life in Leicester, or opt for the tranquillity of picturesque towns and villages such as Loughborough, Melton Mowbray, Market Harborough, and Ashby-de-la-Zouch. Each area has its own charm, and depending on your preferences, there’s something for everyone.
Preparing for Your Leicestershire Move
- Plan Ahead
The key to a successful move is preparation. Start by creating a timeline for your move. The earlier you begin planning, the less stressful the process will be. Aim to give yourself at least a few weeks, or even months, to organise everything before the big day. - Declutter Your Belongings
Moving house is the perfect time to declutter. Go through your belongings and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or throw away. This will reduce the number of items you need to move, saving you time and money. - Find Your New Home
Whether you’re renting or buying, Leicester and Leicestershire offer a wide range of properties to choose from. Research local areas, visit open houses, and speak with estate agents who can provide valuable insights into the market. If you’re new to the area, take time to explore the neighbourhoods before committing to a property. - Set a Moving Budget
Moving can be expensive, so it’s important to set a realistic budget. Include costs such as moving van hire, packing materials, utility connections, and professional moving services. Budgeting early will help you avoid any last-minute financial surprises.
Choosing a Moving Company in Leicester and Leicestershire
Hiring a professional moving company in Leicester or Leicestershire will take a lot of stress out of the moving process. The right movers will handle the heavy lifting, transport your belongings safely, and ensure a smooth transition. When choosing a moving company, consider the following:
- Experience and Reputation: Look for a removal company with a proven track record in Leicester and Leicestershire. Check reviews and testimonials from past customers to ensure they provide quality service.
- Services Offered: Leicestershire Moving companies often offer additional services like packing, storage, and even cleaning. Consider whether you need these extras, as they can save you time and effort.
- Removal Cost: Get multiple quotes from different moving companies to compare prices. Be sure to ask about any hidden fees, such as charges for heavy items or additional services.
- Insurance: Ensure the moving company provides adequate insurance to cover any potential damage to your belongings during the move.
The Moving Day: What to Expect
On moving day, it’s important to be prepared and organised. Here are a few tips to help the day go smoothly:
- Start Early: Begin early in the morning to ensure you have enough time to complete everything. If you’re moving long distances within Leicester or Leicestershire, you may need to factor in travel time.
- Have a Plan for Your Pets and Children: If you have young children or pets, make arrangements for them to be looked after during the move. This will reduce stress and ensure they’re safe.
- Label Your Boxes: Labelling boxes with their contents and the rooms they belong to can make unpacking much easier. Consider colour coding boxes for each room to help the movers place them in the right spots.
- Check Your Utilities: Ensure that your utilities (gas, electricity, water, and broadband) are switched off at your old property and set up at your new one. This will save time and hassle when you arrive.
Settling into Your New Home in Leicester or Leicestershire
Once you’ve made the move, it’s time to settle in and make your new house feel like a home. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you get settled:
- Unpack Methodically
Start by unpacking essential items first, such as kitchenware, toiletries, and bedding. Then, gradually work your way through the rest of the boxes. Unpacking over a few days, rather than all at once, can make the process feel less overwhelming. - Explore Your New Neighbourhood
Take some time to get to know your new area. Whether you’ve moved to Leicester’s city centre or a quieter village in Leicestershire, explore local amenities like shops, parks, restaurants, and public transport links. Meeting your neighbours is also a great way to start feeling at home. - Update Your Details
Don’t forget to update your address with banks, the post office, your employer, and any subscriptions you may have. You’ll also need to inform your utility providers of your move.
Conclusion
Moving house in Leicester and Leicestershire is a big task, but with the right planning, preparation, and support, the experience can be exciting and rewarding. Whether you’re moving to the city for its cultural attractions or settling in one of the charming towns in Leicestershire, there’s something special about finding your new home.
By following these tips, choosing the right moving company, and staying organised, you’ll be well on your way to a smooth relocation.
