Moving to Oxford: Top tips for keeping in touch

Life would be SO much easier if we all had 'Postal Owls' like the wizards in Harry Potter, changing address is a drag. If you're planning a move to (or from) Oxford, here are a few 
tips for staying in touch 'muggle' style...

Send change of address letters

If you're lucky enough to know what your address will be when you arrive in the UK, (or plan to  redirect to another address), start sending your change of address letters or emails ASAP. If you haven't already, it's also worth requesting to receive any ongoing statements digitally. 

Tip: If your move is only temporary, keep a list of all your contacts to avoid having to find them all again when you return. (This list is also useful to have whilst you are away. Include policy numbers and account details for things like your bank account, insurance policies, accountant and property manager).

Redirect your mail

For those of you that don't have time or simply can't be bothered writing a squillion notifications, your local post office may be able to help. Most offer redirection services for 1 month, 3 months, 6 months or up to a year at a time. Tip: If your move is a temporary one, redirecting your mail to your parent’s house or a PO Box until you return might not be a bad option. International redirection is possible and probably the most convenient, but it’s also the most expensive. 

Make a list

Finally, once you arrive, make a list of every new organisation you give your address to. Record their address, website or email so that you can easily send your change of address details, if and when you move again. It seems pedantic I know, but it really does make life SO much easier.

Wouldn't it be fun to surpirse a Harry Potter fan with this awesome Owl Post Gift Box I found on Etsy? I have to admit I'd probably squeel with delight if I found one in my mail box!

Christmas Greetings

I know it's a little early, but unless your family like to celebrate Christmas in February, you’ll need to plan ahead this year to ensure your loved ones receive their Christmas cards and parcels on time! Heavy snowfall caused chaos for the Royal Mail last year. Road, rail and air services were all heavily disrupted and only a third of December’s first-class post was delivered on time.

You can check the Royal Mail’s last recommended posting date for countries all over world but as a general rule, you’ll need to have everything off by the first week of December.

Broad Street, Oxford. 18 Dec 2010.

Whilst there's no guarantee that it will actually snow again this year, it's better to be safe than sorry.