Moving house can be an exciting milestone, but it’s often accompanied by stress and a seemingly endless to-do list. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned property owner, having a clear plan can make all the difference. To help you stay on track, we’ve put together a comprehensive moving house checklist designed to ensure a smoother transition into your new home.
6–8 Weeks Before Moving
1. Start Organising
- Create a moving folder or use a digital app to track tasks, documents, and deadlines.
- Book your removalist or van hire early, especially if you’re moving during peak times.
- Notify your lender if your new address impacts your home loan setup (e.g., redraw facility details).
2. Declutter and Donate
- Sort through your belongings to decide what to keep, sell, donate, or discard.
- Lighten the load – you’ll save on moving costs and start fresh in your new home.
3. Update Utilities and Services
- Schedule the transfer of electricity, gas, and water to your new address.
- Organise internet and phone connections for your moving date.
4 Weeks Before Moving
1. Notify Important Parties
- Update your address with banks, insurance providers, the post office (redirect mail), and any subscription services.
- Inform schools, employers, and healthcare providers of your upcoming move.
2. Pack Non-Essentials
- Start packing items you don’t use daily – seasonal clothing, décor, and rarely used kitchen gadgets.
- Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to in your new home.
3. Check Loan Arrangements
- Confirm settlement dates and any required documentation with your lender or broker.
- If you’re in the process of selling your current home, stay in close contact with your conveyancer or solicitor.
-
-
2 Weeks Before Moving
1. Confirm Details with Movers
- Double-check moving day schedules, addresses, and any special instructions with your removalist.
2. Secure Insurance
- Ensure your current and new properties are adequately insured during the move.
- Consider adding moving insurance for high-value items.
3. Prepare an Essentials Box
- Pack a box with essential items like toiletries, chargers, a change of clothes, basic kitchen supplies, and important documents.
1 Week Before Moving
1. Defrost and Clean
- Defrost your fridge and freezer at least 24 hours before moving day.
- Clean appliances and pack them securely.
2. Finalise Paperwork
- Confirm settlement times and access arrangements for your new home.
- If you’re renting, complete your final inspection checklist and arrange bond returns.
Moving Day
1. Start the Day Right
- Begin early to ensure everything runs smoothly.
- Conduct a final walkthrough of your old property to check for missed items or damage.
2. Stay Hydrated and Energised
- Keep plenty of water bottles handy to stay hydrated throughout the day, especially if you’re moving during warmer months.
- Have a selection of easy-to-grab snacks like granola bars, fruit, and sandwiches available for quick energy boosts. Moving can be physically demanding, so regular breaks for hydration and nourishment will keep everyone feeling their best.
3. Direct the Movers
- Clearly label rooms in your new home to help movers place boxes and furniture.
4. Inspect Your New Home
- Ensure utilities are connected and functional.
- Check that your belongings arrived undamaged.
Post-Move Checklist
1. Unpack Strategically
- Start with essentials and gradually unpack room by room.
- Recycle or responsibly dispose of packing materials.
2. Secure Your New Home
- Change locks, set up a security system, and familiarise yourself with fire safety measures.
3. Update Your Home Loan Details
- Confirm your new address with your lender for correspondence and statements.
Moving Doesn’t Have to Be Overwhelming
A well-structured checklist can ease the stress of moving house and help you stay organised every step of the way. If you’re planning a move and have questions about your home loan, don’t hesitate to reach out to your LJ Hooker Home Loans specialist for tailored advice and support.
By following these steps – and remembering to take care of yourself along the way – you’ll be well on your way to settling into your new home with minimal hassle.
Happy moving!
We hope you found this article helpful. If you'd like to discuss it further please fill in the form below and we'll be in touch.
This article is prepared based on general information. It does not take into account individual financial objectives or needs and is not financial product advice.