So, you’ve decided to change the scenery a bit, or perhaps you’ve found a new job that necessitates moving house. Either way, if you’re considering moving to London in particular, Acton might be a good place to start. It has personality and star power to spare.

It’s easy to get around, there are seven train stations in close proximity, which is more than any other part of London, even places famous for rail, like Waterloo and Kings Cross. This, combined with a central park complete with cafés, tennis courts and more sprawling fields than you can ever ask for, makes this district perfect for family moves. Plus, for all of the music buffs out there, it’s also the birthplace of The Who.

Now that your heart’s set on this site of British musical heritage, how should you go about moving? Well, just keep these steps in mind;

Make sure you plan carefully. There’s a lot to go wrong on a move, like breakages, loss of property, costly delays and so on. Reduce the risks of such events by making a packing schedule and inventory, so you can keep track of what you’re taking. Make a driving schedule too, with multiple drivers taking different shifts if you’re going a long distance. This reduces the risk of getting lost, or being involved in a worse accident.

Plan your finances out as well. This comes into play before you move as well. Make sure you can afford to move before taking any of the necessary first steps. Once you start, it will be hard to recoup your losses.

Decide what not to take. Heavier items such as chests of drawers and wardrobes may be worth leaving at home, especially when transporting long distances, because they may end up being more trouble than they’re worth – they add to the fuel consumption and may require you to rent a larger van or a more expensive removal company. Also, only bring food for the journey and the first day or two, bringing more is usually unnecessary.

Research moving / rental companies before using them, whether you’re doing the move yourself, hiring a man with van, or a full blown moving company, make sure you take a look around the web, and have a chat to family and friends about their personal experiences. You’ll be glad you did when you get the customer service and competitive pricing you deserve.

Make sure you have the correct insurance cover. The removal company should provide this, but be sure to check. Your goods may be in the hands of professionals, but if something does go wrong, it’s best to have an insurance safety net. Theft, damage and loss are the three things you want your possessions to be protected against.

And lastly, don’t overstretch yourself. Moving is a very stressful business for most families, and it’s best if you’re there for them. If you overwork yourself, you’ll only add to that. To avoid this, if you’re planning to do the move without the aid of a professional, it may be worth hiring one of the many man and van movers at the very least. If you can stretch to the extra (affordable) costs, that is. Having your mind free to spend time with your family may just save you from the extra avoidable stress.

So, with these simple guidelines in mind, the little part of London may end up being the move you always wanted. With the aid of the Magic Bus, or Removal Van, as it’s known in the trade.