Moving can often be stressful, however, starting to plan your move in advance can make all the difference, and ensure that move-day runs as smooth as possible. This article will outline the steps you should take for a stress-free move.
Planning the move - 4 weeks out
Getting onto some of the basics early can make all the difference, and mean that nothing major is forgotten-about until the last minute. Above all, this is your chance to de-clutter and figure out what you actually need/want to bring with you to your next home. The less that comes with you, the easier and usually cheaper (especially if you’re using a removalist company), so be sure to get rid of what you don’t need. If you’re moving to a different city or state, consider what items will fit in or not be needed for the lifestyle change. Other things to consider are:
- Finding and booking a removalist. Contact a few removalists for quotes, and book the one that represents the best value. If you’re not using removalists, then consider contacting a friend or rental company to hire a van or larger car, and reach out to a few mates to help with the move.
- Organise contents insurance. Be sure to make necessary changes to your contents insurance, or consider applying, especially if moving into areas that might have higher levels of theft.
- Book end-of-lease cleaners. To give yourself the best chance possible for having your bond returned, be sure to book cleaners. End-of-lease cleaners specialise in knowing exactly what landlords look for in the outgoing inspection and can help prevent a claim against your bond.
Book a cleaner or removalist at: https://snug.movinghub.net/
Planning the move - 2 weeks out
At this point, the logistics of moving day should be organised. If you’re using a removalist, then they should be booked, with details of both addresses and be provided with floor plans. If you’re moving by yourself, consider organising some cardboard boxes for moving day. 2 weeks out is an opportune time to contact service providers and government services to advise of a change of address. Be sure to:
- Notify postal services. Notify AusPost of a change of address so that they can redirect any mail sent to your previous address.
- Notify your bank
- Notify your superannuation account
- Notify your private health insurance provider
- Submit change of address form for your drivers license
- Submit change of address form for your details on the electoral roll
- Redirect any subscriptions
- Return borrowed/rented items
Planning the move - 1 week out
Ok, you’re not far off now. Now’s the time to start thinking about the logistics of moving day. Follow-up with real estate agents, end-of-lease cleaners and removalists (if you’re not moving, yourself). Also consider packing items such as linens and towels, as it’s good to have these prepared for moving day. Throughout the week, try to pack as much as possible. When walking around the house, ask yourself “Will I need to use this before the move?”. If the answer is no, then pack it up in a cardboard box.
Planning the move - 1 day out
You’re almost there! Here’s what you need to do in preparation for moving day: Defrost and empty the fridge. Make sure to use up as much as possible! If you can’t, consider reducing waste through giving your groceries to a neighbour. Pack-up everything else! Make sure to have a suitcase filled with your essential moving needs, and pack everything else into cardboard boxes. Be sure to leave heavier items on the bottom.
Moving day
It’s the big day. If you’ve prepared for the move, this should run as smooth as possible. Make sure you have prepared meals and snacks for the day and try to stick to a logistics schedule for the day. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
- Pack the truck/van. Tip: make sure that you pack the truck/van with living room furniture/kitchen equipment last. This will mean these items are the first to make it out of the truck/van and first to go into your new home.
- Take lots of photos. This helps prevent any arguments surrounding bond claims down the line. Take photos of the property you’re leaving, after the cleaners are finished, as well as the new property on arrival. These can be used as evidence if a bond claim is to arise.
- Do a final check. This is your opportunity to double-check everything before you leave. - Double-check cupboards, under beds, storage spaces, garages, gardens etc.
- Lock all doors and windows.
- Return and pick up new keys. Return your keys back to your landlord/agent. If you can, try to organise to pick up the keys to your new property a couple of days prior to moving so that you’re good to go on the day of moving.
- Say goodbye to your neighbours. Unless they’re the reason you’re leaving(!)
Moving in
So you’ve made it to your new place! You’re probably pretty exhausted by this point to make sure you take the time to eat and drink some water. Here’s the drill: Give clear instructions. Whether you’ve hired removalists or enlisted the help of some mates, be sure to give clear instructions as to where you want things placed. Not everyone will intuitively know where you’d like things to go.
- Set up beds ASAP. Realistically, some places might take more than a day to move into. If you’ve assembled and dressed your bed, then at least you can have a good night’s sleep before finishing off the unpacking the next day.
- Double check with your new landlord or property manager that you have all necessary keys, instructions and info. This is especially relevant if you’re moving into an apartment complex, where you may need extra keys for shared spaces such as pools or gyms. Additionally, make sure you have all relevant body corporate information.
- Say “hi” and get to know your new neighbours or housemates. Because that’s a nice thing to do.
All done!
Congrats! You’ve survived the move. Now, time to settle into your new place and community.
Happy moving,
Team Snug
P.S. if you’ve gotten some help moving from mates, make sure you shout the first couple of rounds at your new local afterwards.