Moving day is easier when the important decisions have already been made. Treat the handover as a short project with named responsibilities rather than a long list that everyone assumes someone else is handling. Confirm the timing with your solicitor and selling team before committing to arrangements that depend on it.
Pack for the first evening separately
Keep the items you will need immediately somewhere accessible: chargers, basic toiletries, a change of clothes and a few kitchen essentials. Keep personal documents and other important belongings under your own control. The objective is to avoid reopening a van full of boxes for something you knew you would need.
Confirm access and collection arrangements
Ask your selling team how keys will be released and when you should expect instructions. Do not improvise an early handover directly with a buyer without checking the position with your solicitor. Tell the removal team about practical access constraints and make sure someone can answer questions at both ends of the move.
Check what is staying
Review the agreed position on included items before the final packing begins. If something is unclear, resolve it through the appropriate adviser rather than leaving a surprise for the buyer. Give anyone helping you pack clear instructions so an included item is not removed by mistake.
Prepare a useful information folder
Gather available appliance instructions and other practical information relevant to the property. Keep private records separate. Share sensitive details, such as alarm arrangements, through the method agreed with your selling team rather than placing them in an unsecured note visible during earlier visits.
Make a final walk-through
Check cupboards, loft-access areas that can be inspected safely, outbuildings and less frequently used storage. Record meter readings where appropriate and follow the relevant providers’ instructions for closing or transferring accounts. Check that the property is left in the condition agreed for the handover.
Your next step
Write a brief plan covering people, keys, belongings and final checks. Assign each item to someone and keep contact details accessible. Allow for changes in timing, and use your solicitor and selling team to confirm when the handover can proceed.
Put it into practice — find your agent