Checklist for moving from Scotland to Poland

Set the scope and budget. Knowing your load volume earlier helps reduce the cost of shared transport.

• List your furniture, appliances and approximate number of boxes - this forms the basis of your quote.
• Decide what goes to Poland, what you will sell and what to donate to a charity shop.
• Request a removals quote and compare half a van (£1000) with a full van (£1800).
• Check your tenancy notice period (usually 28 days) and when your deposit will be returned.
• Agree a provisional collection week - we will confirm the exact day by phone.

Paperwork takes the most time and is the most common cause of moving delays.

• Cancel contracts: energy, internet, TV licence, phone and gym.
• Notify the council that you are moving and request a final council tax bill.
• Set up Royal Mail Redirection for 3-6 months.
• Tell your GP, children’s school and employer your departure date.
• Order boxes, stretch wrap and tape - allow around one box per square metre of your home.

Well-packed belongings take up less van space, reducing your moving costs.

• Pack room by room and label boxes in Polish and English (room and contents).
• Put heavy items in small boxes and light items in large ones - boxes must withstand transport.
• Protect glass, televisions and mirrors with bubble wrap and blankets.
• Dismantle beds and wardrobes; put screws in labelled bags attached to the furniture.
• Photograph valuable items before loading in case you need to make a claim.
• Set aside documents, medicines and travel essentials - keep these with you, not in the van.

Final preparations: confirm logistics and arrange van access.

• Confirm the collection day, time window and Polish delivery address by phone.
• Check van access and parking - parking suspensions are often needed in Edinburgh and Glasgow.
• Defrost and dry your fridge and freezer at least 24 hours beforehand.
• Drain the washing machine and secure its drum with transit bolts.
• Prepare two copies of the inventory - one for you and one for the driver.

Loading a two- or three-room flat usually takes 2-4 hours.

• Be present for loading or appoint an authorised representative.
• Check the items with the driver and sign the inventory.
• Make a final check of cupboards, loft, garden, cellar and letterbox.
• Record and photograph meter readings - this is required for the return of your deposit.
• Leave the keys as agreed in your tenancy or hand them to the letting agent.

Scotland-Poland transport takes 5-7 working days, with door-to-door delivery.

• Ensure someone is available at the Polish address on delivery day - the driver calls ahead.
• Inspect boxes and furniture during unloading and record any damage on the delivery document.
• Register your residence and update your address with your bank, Polish social security/tax offices and service providers.
• Exchange your driving licence or register your car if you are bringing one.
• Recycle or pass on your boxes - other people moving back to Poland may welcome them.