Whether you're moving interstate or just a few blocks away, moving day can be daunting. But there's no need to worry; this article will walk you through how to get ready for your big move with our moving house checklist. Let us help take the stress out of moving.
There are a lot of things to keep track of when moving into a new home. Use this checklist to stay on top of it.
We always recommend getting several removalist quotes from reputable companies and choosing the one which best suits your needs. With Up Move, you can complete a quick quote request form and receive the best offer straight to your inbox. One platform, all the best companies.
Find out if your insurance policy covers you if anything is damaged or stolen during the move. Also, it’s a good idea to make a list of your most valuable items and get an estimate of what they're worth if you have to file an insurance claim.
If you have pets or children, make a plan for them on the day of the move; this could be to have someone supervise them in another room or even to take them away temporarily while the move is in process.
The best would be to arrange for professionals to do the packing for you. Let’s face it, they do this every day - way faster and they know how to make sure everything is safe.
If you decide to pack yourself, make sure you have everything you need:
You're going to need a toolbox, so make sure you have one on hand. You’ll need to take a few things apart for the move, and then put them back together again in your new home.
Check out our complete guide for moving furniture.
Did you know? Nearly 40 per cent of Australians change address every five years according to the Australian Governments Centre for Population
Contact your utility providers to arrange the connection and disconnection of all your services (such as water, electricity, phone, and internet). You will need to transfer some of your accounts from your old address to your new one.
Here are some things to double-check:
If you’re selling or ending a lease, make sure your house is ready for inspection. Check the garden, fences and pool (if you have one). Ensure that all the bigger things (like a garden shed) are disassembled and ready to go.
Be prepared and make a first aid kit! The best thing to do is buy a first aid kit, so you don't waste time searching your boxes for basic necessities like plasters and painkillers.
Don't forget toilet paper! Yes, we know it sounds strange, but once people start packing their things up, it's easy to forget about the most important thing in life: toilet paper!
Don't wait until moving day to get cleaning supplies. You'll probably want to clean both houses once everyone has moved out and you’re ready to move in - so be prepared by having cleaning supplies at both properties. This is important if you’re using professional cleaners too - some charge extra for cleaning supplies.
You won't feel like unpacking on your first night in your new house, so prepare for this by packing an overnight bag to take with you in the car. Pack a change of clothes, sleepwear, toiletries and any medication you or your family members might need.
You'll also want to keep your phone charger at hand, as well as any other necessities that may be required during the first few hours of settling into your new place.
This one is pretty self-explanatory; there's nothing worse than a freezer defrosting while in transit, so do yourself a favour and give these areas a quick once-over before leaving your old home behind. It's also worth taking this opportunity to throw out expired items.
You probably won’t have any more time for laundry until you’re in your new house - so get that last load done before the washer dryer gets carried away.
Make sure you have ALL the keys. That includes the front door, back door and any room keys that there might be. Also, check that you have the spares.
Don’t let these go into just any box. Make sure you know where they are, and you can even take those boxes with you personally if necessary.
After acquiring keys to your new home, it's essential to make sure everything is ready. The first and most important step is to make sure the house has been thoroughly cleaned. You may also want to hire pest control services to treat the home - so you don’t inherit any nasty surprises.
For furniture items like couches and beds, ensure you have clear passage throughout the home before moving these in. Take your tape measure and make sure everything is going to fit where you want it.
If you also need to move appliances such as washing machines or fridges, make sure that there's enough room around power outlets so they can be plugged in without fuss.
Double-check that the driveway to your home is accessible and all the rubbish has been removed. If you're moving out of a rental property, make sure that you’ve booked a professionally cleaned by end of lease cleaners.
The night before the move, get the dogs, cats and kids to their godparents or carers. You don’t want to worry about them on moving day.
Your removalist will call you on the day of the move, to confirm that they are on schedule, etc. Make sure they have access to your building or property.
Give your new keys to the real estate agent, landlord or new owners, if they're ready to move in.
Inspect the property one last time to ensure you haven't left any items behind. Once everything is out of the old house, give your end of lease cleaners access so they can get to work.
Open up for your movers and let them know which rooms are which. They can then put the boxes where they need to be - making it easier for you later.
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Movers may ask you a few more details about your delivery before giving you a quote.
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Pick your preferred moving company and arrange collection and delivery.
Prepare your package for collection or if you are moving home, get ready for moving day.
Meet and greet your chosen moving company on your collection day.
Sit back and relax while your moving company takes care of your booking.
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