There are so many things to consider at once when moving house, it can be quite overwhelming. From arranging paperwork, packing up belongings, arranging a move and preparing a new home, it’s easy to feel like you’re always chasing down the next task.
There is no secret to a smoother move-it’s not about working harder. It’s on a clear timeline.
It’s easy to understand that breaking up the process into smaller steps will help alleviate stress, avoid any last minute issues and help you to have more control over moving day. Whether you’re moving a small apartment or a large family home, having a plan can make it a lot more enjoyable. These should be done 6-8 weeks prior to moving day.
It is time to begin preparation!
A lot of people make their last minute preparations and then realize after their move that there is a lot more to do than they had thought. Early starting brings the benefit of some breathing room and pressure-free decision making.
Start by making a moving checklist. List all the tasks you can think of to do, including setting up utilities and informing service providers.
This is also a good time to do some spring cleaning. Go through wardrobes, cupboards, storage areas and garages. Identify things to keep, donate, sell and/or recycle.
Moving is often easier and more affordable, the less items you move.
After the big planning is done, it’s time to begin making bookings and collecting supplies.
When hiring moving companies, make sure to book your preferred moving date early on. Periods of moving can be hectic, especially around school holidays and during popular real estate moving times.
Gather all packing supplies such as strong boxes, tape, labels and protective wrapping. It helps to get everything organized before you even begin to pack.
Also at this point, it’s time to start putting away less-used items. These are typically a good place to start and include seasonal clothing, decorative items, books and extra household items.
It’s not as stressful to pack over the course of a week as it is over the weekend.
Three Weeks Before Moving Day
By now, the move begins to seem more concrete.
Start giving notification to organisations of your impending move. The information might be required by banks, insurers, subscription services, schools, medical providers, and government agencies.
It’s also important to verify utility connections or transfer. Electricity, gas, internet and water connections should be arranged before you move in.
Continue packing room by room, clearly labelling boxes with their contents and destination. This is an easy trick to save hours when unpacking.
This book is about two weeks before moving day.
The final two weeks are the time that most people start to feel the strain, but by then the bulk of the work should be done.
Review your moving list and see if there is anything else that you still need to do. Reconfirm with your movers and double check moving dates, access and parking arrangements.
If you have children or pets, think about how you’ll deal with them on moving day. It can help make the day smoother for everyone involved to have a plan.
It’s also a good time to put together an essentials box with items you need right after you move into your new home. Include toiletries, chargers, medications, important documents, snacks and basic kitchen supplies.
These are some things you’ll want to have handy after a hectic day.
One Week Before Moving Day
Most non essential items will have been packed by now.
Take last week to sort through the rest of the household items and clean spaces as they become bare. Thaw refrigerators as needed and unplug appliances carefully, following manufacturer’s instructions.
Record pictures of electronic connections prior to unplugging equipment. This may be helpful in making the reassembly phase easier later. Also, check the weather forecast and prepare accordingly if it is raining or very hot or cold. Contact us for more information on expert removalists in the Northern Beaches.

Comments