Moving house is something that we all do at least once in our lifetimes and it can be an incredibly stressful task.  This is why we have put this list together to help make the process easier and save your sanity.

The First Things to Consider

As soon as you know that you will be moving, you need to decide if you will be using removalists or if you are going to do the move yourself.  Even if you are doing it yourself, you will still need help, and the sooner you enlist the help of friends and family, the better.

Also, consider how much the move will cost and how much time you will have for the move.  If you are time poor, or cannot get time off work, a removalist is your best option.  If you are on a budget, shop around to find a removalist that you are comfortable with that you can afford, or consider doing it yourself.  Remember, the DIY option will still require hiring a truck or trailer.

Changing your Address

Changing your address is one thing that is often put on the backburner or overlooked.  As a result, people rush to change their addresses with the relevant companies and run the risk of leaving some important companies out, creating problems down the track.  Four to six weeks before moving, begin the process of changing your address. Australia Post also offers a mail redirection service, which is a great idea if you have left it too late to notify bill providers and important contacts.

Packing

When packing, start early and pack one room at a time.  Start in the rooms you don’t use often, and as you are packing, create a list of each carton and what it contains.  Numbering the cartons will help you find the box you need in your new home and minimise the risk of anything getting lost in the move.

Four Weeks to Go

• select your furniture removal service, if you are using one
• collect dental, medical, and school records
• organise the connection of phone, internet, gas, and electricity at your new place
• create an inventory list of the things that you will be moving
• if moving to a new city, research the city – check out local supermarkets, schools, train stations, child care facilities etc
• if renting, formally notify the landlord of the date that you are leaving the premises
• arrange for a property inspection to recoup bond
• begin using up frozen food

Three Weeks to Go

• begin the change of address process (see above)
• update insurance coverage where relevant
• start the packing process, starting with items that are not often used
• arrange rubbish removal
• disassemble outdoor items
• disassemble all prefabricated furniture – a computer desk for example
• obtain pet records from the vet
• move valuables to a safety deposit box
• organise storage if necessary

Two Weeks to Go

• finalise any additional moving documentation such as transit insurance
• make arrangements for any pets to be moved to the new home 
• make accommodation and travel arrangements for the duration of the moving process
• return library books, DVDs etc

One Week to Go

• arrange mail redirection at the post office
• arrange final accounts for utilities – gas, water, phone, internet, electricity, etc
• ensure that the utilities will be connected to the new home ready to move in
• give any spare keys to the real estate agent or new tenant
• begin using any remaining food in the fridge
• take valuables out of safety deposit box
• pack personal luggage last – carry valuables yourself

Moving Day

• check cupboards before you leave
• make one final check of the home 
• ensure that taps are turned off
• check all switches, heaters, air conditioners, and lights
• lock doors and windows