Although you can occasionally read horror stories in the news about such events, the vast majority of household removals go entirely smoothly and without a glitch.
Yet problems aren't entirely unknown and they can arise even on the day you are due to take final possession of your new property.
Talking specifically about that end of the chain, here are a few top tips that might help you avoid headaches.
• Dress sensibly and in working clothes.
Some people like to dress up a bit for their arrival in the hope their new neighbours will be impressed but that can be a serious mistake when boxes and furniture are being lugged around.
One snag on a jagged edge and that designer outfit is ruined.
• Although some would classify it as a risk, try to do your final pre-inspection of your new house other than on the day you intend to take possession of it.
Yes, there is the risk that you will find piles of rubbish left in the garden but it may be small and worth taking if it avoids you rushing around trying to do everything on the final day.
• The first thing you should do upon arrival is to look carefully around the house both externally and internally.
You may have already done your pre-settlement final inspection but do another one and note any problems before your possessions start being moved into the house.
If you discover anything untoward, photograph it and try to get a neighbour or other unbiased party to witness it.
• Before allowing your removals people to start bringing stuff in, check that all the utilities such as water, gas and electricity are fully connected and functioning.
That way if you do need to hunt to find stop cocks and fuse boxes, you won't be climbing over furniture and piles of cardboard cartons to do so.
• Make sure that your removals vehicle is not in any danger of causing an obstruction.
You won't want your first day in your new property to start with a row with your new neighbours! Of course, that should never be an issue with a professional removals company.
• If you have young children, check your property while it is empty for any potential dangers.
Do likewise in the garden.
During the move itself, keep an eye on smaller kids because the excitement and novelty can wear off very quickly and then they will be up to mischief in a house and garden they are not familiar with and that could be a potential risk.
• Even if you have previously had a full survey, look around the property carefully without furnishings and check for signs of things such as damp and rot.
Sometimes even professionals can find it difficult to spot the warning signs in a property that is occupied and fully furnished.
So, you're moving-in day is a great opportunity though here's hoping that you see nothing! • Once you have switched the water back on, leave it a few minutes and then go around to check for leaks and weeping joints etc.
Yet again, these can be so much easier to see in an empty house than a full one.
This is particularly important if your new property has been standing unoccupied for any length of time.
Your natural urge might be to get your furniture in and to start unpacking those boxes as soon as possible but try to find a few minutes to do the above.
It may save you some heartache later on.