Phil Spencer on avoiding costly moving mistakes

Moving costs can sometimes be a bit of an afterthought when buying or renting a new property – but without sufficient prep, the expenses can quickly add up.With living costs on the rise, now more than ever, movers will want the process be as cost-effective as possible – so it’s important to budget and plan ahead.To help, delivery and removals firm AnyVan has partnered with TV presenter Phil Spencer to create a series released on his Moveiq.co.uk YouTube channel and podcast.1. Start sorting and packing your belongings earlyFirstly, once you’ve decided to move, having a major clear-out is key – so you’re not paying to transport items you no longer need. As for when the decluttering process should start, Spencer says: ‘The sooner the better. This means you can pace yourself and give yourself more time, putting you in a really good position as you approach moving day.’When it comes to packing, he adds: ‘The earlier you start packing, the easier your move will be, and will help you avoid rushing around at the last minute feeling stressed.’Getting organised is imperative. I personally would advise packing an essentials box with all of the items you will need on your first night, such as bedding, toiletries, chargers, and fresh clothes for the next day.’Move iQ has a moving checklist, designed to help people stay on track. Spencer adds that when decluttering, people may want to write down what they own. ‘Then sort these belongings into three groups: what you want to pack, what you can sell, and what you can get rid of,’ he suggests.2. Measure items correctlyWhen it comes to moving, failing to take precise measurements can also turn out to be a costly mistake.’If you’ve got any large pieces of furniture you’re moving with you, you really will need to think ahead about where it’s going and will you get it in, either through a door, window or up any awkward stairs,’ says Spencer.He also suggests giving yourself some wriggle room, when it comes to totting up how much you think you’re going to need to pack and transport. ‘We recommend creating a full list of your inventory and allowing roughly 20% more than what you have planned for, so if you think realistically you are going to need 60 boxes, give yourself 75. It’s easy to forget shoes in the closet or boxes in the attic.’3. Make sure you and the moving team are preppedMaking sure you are dealing with a moving firm you can trust will also help you to avoid any costly damage to cherished items. Access to the property could also be an issue, so flesh everything out well in advance of move day.Spencer suggests: ‘When arranging your move, map out all access points in your head or ideally video it on your phone and share with your removals team. All good movers will ask you these questions during booking, but in this situation, you are the expert – after all, it is your house.’4. Be mindful of costs kitting out the new placeWhile decluttering may be an issue for some, particularly those downsizing to smaller properties, others may have the opposite problem – perhaps if they’re renting or owning their own home for the first time, and suddenly need lots of things they don’t currently own.In this situation, some cheap and cheerful ‘stop gap’ options could help. Those with the skills may want to try their hand at upcycling old furniture.’Freecycling websites (where items are listed for free) are an excellent place to find chairs, storage units and even white goods that need a new home,’ says Spencer. ‘As long as you check the quality of any goods you accept, this can be an excellent way to save money, both before and after your move.’Charity shops or flea markets are another great place to explore when looking to kit out your home and can be full of hidden treasures. Not only will you be giving pre-loved furniture a new home, you’ll also be doing a little bit for the planet in the process.’5. Factor in additional short-term costs if you’re planning renovationsIf your new home is a ‘doer-upper’ which needs work, Spencer adds: ‘It’s important to prioritise where you are going to live while you do up the property.’If you’re living in the property, you need a clear plan of where you will go and if you can zone off a room while you live in the building site. If this is the case, consider putting your main belongings in storage until the property is finished.’