What equipment do I need for a DIY move?

The Essentials for a DIY Move

Undertaking a DIY move requires careful preparation and the right equipment to ensure possessions are transported safely and efficiently. Proper planning, utilising effective moving hacks, and having the correct gear significantly reduces the likelihood of damage or personal injury. This guide outlines the essential items for a successful self-managed relocation.

Packing Materials

• Moving Boxes: A variety of sizes is crucial. Sturdy, double-walled boxes are best for heavier items like books or fragile goods. Clear labelling with contents and the designated room at the new property saves time during unpacking.
• Packing Tape: Strong, good-quality adhesive tape is essential for securing boxes. A tape dispenser makes the job quicker and more efficient.
• Wrapping Materials: Bubble wrap, packing paper, and old towels or blankets protect delicate items. Newspaper can be used, but be mindful of ink transfer onto lighter coloured items.
• Permanent Markers: For clear and visible labelling of boxes on multiple sides.
• Resealable Bags: Handy for small parts from disassembled furniture, keeping screws and bolts together with their respective item.
• Bin Bags: Useful for packing soft items like cushions, bedding, or clothes, though these offer less protection than boxes.

Protective Equipment

• Moving Blankets/Furniture Pads: These are indispensable for protecting furniture, appliances, and delicate items from scratches, dents, and chips during transit.
• Shrink Wrap/Stretch Film: Excellent for securing drawers and doors on furniture, and for bundling smaller items together. It also adds an extra layer of protection against dirt and moisture.
• Mattress Bags/Covers: Designed to protect mattresses from dirt, tears, and moisture, keeping them clean and hygienic.
• Floor Protection: Cardboard sheets, old rugs, or protective runners safeguard carpets and hard floors at both the old and new properties, particularly useful in wet weather.

Lifting and Moving Aids

• Hand Trolley/Dolly: An upright hand trolley is invaluable for moving stacks of boxes and smaller appliances with ease.
• Furniture Dolly: A flat, wheeled platform is ideal for transporting larger, heavier items such as wardrobes, chest of drawers, or even stacked boxes across flat surfaces.
• Lifting Straps/Shoulder Straps: These distribute the weight of bulky items more evenly across the body, making two-person lifts safer and less strenuous.
• Appliance Trolley: Often featuring stair-climbing capabilities, an appliance trolley is highly recommended, particularly for large items like a fridge freezer or a washing machine, where understanding washing machine transit bolts is crucial.
• Ramps: If the moving vehicle does not have a tail lift, a sturdy, non-slip ramp is essential for safely loading and unloading heavier items.

Tools and Sundries

• Basic Toolkit: A selection of screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead), an adjustable spanner, and a set of Allen keys are necessary for disassembling and reassembling furniture.
• Box Cutter/Utility Knife: For efficiently opening packed boxes at the new property.
• Measuring Tape: Crucial for checking door frames, stairwells, and the internal dimensions of the moving vehicle to ensure items will fit.
• Cleaning Supplies: A basic kit of cleaning products, cloths, and a vacuum cleaner is often required for any end-of-tenancy cleaning at the old property.
• First-Aid Kit: For minor scrapes, cuts, or blisters that can occur during physical work.
• Cable Ties/Bungee Cords: Useful for securing items within the moving vehicle, preventing movement during transit.

The Moving Vehicle

• Van or Lorry: The choice of vehicle depends entirely on the volume of possessions. It is generally advisable to overestimate the size needed slightly to avoid multiple trips. Ensure the driver holds the appropriate licence for the vehicle class and consider if a tail lift is necessary for very heavy items.
• Sat Nav/GPS: An essential aid for navigating between properties, especially when driving in an unfamiliar city centre or rural area.
• Fuel: Always ensure the moving vehicle has sufficient fuel for the entire journey and any unexpected detours.

Personal Safety Equipment

• Work Gloves: Protect hands from splinters, cuts, and dirt, and improve grip when handling items.
• Sturdy Footwear: Steel-toe boots or robust trainers with good grip are highly recommended to prevent foot injuries from dropped items or uneven surfaces.
• Comfortable Clothing: Loose-fitting, breathable clothing that allows for unrestricted movement is important for a long day of physical activity.