If We Were Moving Our Own Home, Here’s Exactly How We’d Do It

After years of helping people move homes across Swindon and Wiltshire, we’ve seen every type of move imaginable. Some feel rushed and stressful. Others feel calm, organised, and surprisingly straightforward.
If we were moving our own home tomorrow, we wouldn’t rely on luck or last-minute decisions. We’d lean on the same practical steps and habits we see working well every week.
This isn’t a checklist — it’s simply what experience has taught us makes a real difference.
We’d Start With a Proper Survey, Not Assumptions
The very first thing we’d do is arrange a removals survey.
From our experience at A. Luckes & Son, the smoothest moves always start with a clear understanding of what’s involved. A survey removes guesswork and replaces it with proper planning.
We’d want someone to look at:
- The true volume of belongings
- Access at both properties
- Any furniture that needs special handling
- Parking and timing considerations
Knowing these details early makes everything else easier.
Related reading: What Happens at a Removals Survey – What to Expect from Start to Finish
We’d Be Honest About What We Own
One of the biggest advantages we have as movers is knowing how quickly volume adds up.
If we were moving ourselves, we’d be realistic about:
- Lofts, sheds and garages
- Spare rooms and storage cupboards
- Furniture that’s larger or heavier than it looks
Being honest about volume early on avoids rushed decisions later.
We’d Think About Access Before Moving Day
Access is something we instinctively assess the moment we arrive at a property — and we’d do the same for our own move.
We’d check:
- Where the vehicle can realistically park
- How far items need to be carried
- Stairs, lifts or tight internal spaces
From experience, these details matter far more than people expect, especially when time and energy come into play.
Related reading: Access Problems on Moving Day: Stairs, Parking & Tight Roads Explained
We’d Pack With the Move in Mind, Not Just the Boxes
Packing isn’t just about filling boxes — it’s about making the move flow well.
If we were packing our own home, we’d:
- Group items by room clearly
- Keep heavy items manageable
- Separate essentials we’ll need straight away
From our experience, clear packing makes loading quicker and unloading far easier at the other end.
We’d Avoid Leaving Decisions Until the Last Minute
Rushed decisions are usually where things feel stressful.
If we were moving ourselves, we’d aim to:
- Confirm dates early
- Finish packing ahead of time
- Flag any changes as soon as they arise
This gives everyone space to adjust calmly rather than reacting under pressure.
We’d Trust the Planning Process
One thing experience has taught us is that a well-planned move tends to look after itself on the day.
When the right information is shared early and the move has been thought through properly, moving day usually feels predictable — in a good way.
Our Honest Advice to Anyone Planning a Move
If there’s one takeaway from years of moving homes, it’s this: the best moves aren’t rushed, and they aren’t improvised.
They’re the result of:
- Clear information
- Early planning
- Realistic expectations
If you’re preparing to move and would like advice based on real experience, our team is always happy to talk things through and help you plan with confidence.
Related reading: What to Expect on Moving Day
— Written by Sally Luckes, part of the family team at A. Luckes & Son, drawing on years of hands-on experience helping people move homes across Swindon and Wiltshire.


