Moving can be a monumental task, but with the right tips for moving house, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned relocator, a strategic approach can make all the difference.
This article offers a detailed checklist alongside essential tips for moving house, designed to streamline your moving process from start to finish. We’ll help you prepare, pack, and settle into your new home with ease. So, let’s get started and make your move as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Planning your move
Stress levels could quickly rise when moving boxes start piling up and the deadline to move approaches rapidly. The secret to a smooth move is planning. We’re here to show you how to create a realistic moving timeline, breaking down big tasks into manageable chunks, whether you’re selling your current home or looking to buy your first home.
Thinking of selling? Take the first step – Request a sales appraisal today!
Importance of early planning
Early planning is crucial for a successful move. Preparing your house well in advance gives you ample time to address any unforeseen issues and ensures that everything is organised by the time moving day arrives. A good rule of thumb is to begin planning at least two months before your move.
Create a timeline
Stress levels could quickly rise when boxes start piling up and the deadline to move approaches rapidly. The secret to a smooth move is planning. Create a realistic moving timeline, breaking tasks into weekly goals to make them more manageable.
Budget for your move
Moving can be expensive, so create a budget to avoid any financial surprises. Consider all potential costs, including hiring movers, purchasing packing supplies, and any additional services you might need, such as cleaning or temporary storage. A clear budget will help you manage your expenses and keep your move within your financial limits.
Preparing for moving day
Sorting and decluttering your belongings
Do you still have unpacked boxes from your last move? Before you start packing, take the time to sort through your belongings and declutter your home. Organise a garage sale, donate or sell items you no longer need or use. This reduces the amount you need to pack and makes unpacking easier and more organised in your new home.
Gather packing supplies
Stock up on packing supplies well before you start packing. You’ll need sturdy packing boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, labels and markers. Consider investing in specialty boxes for fragile items such as dishware or electronics. Having all your supplies ready will make the packing process more efficient.
Create an inventory of your items
An inventory list helps you keep track of your belongings during the move. Write down each item and its condition before packing it away. This will be invaluable if any items are lost or damaged during the move and can also help you prioritise which boxes to unpack first in your new home.
Visualise the layout
When preparing for moving day, review your home’s layout and map each room to the floor plan of your new home. Measure the dimensions of each room and furniture, to determine the best placement for each piece, ensuring everything fits perfectly. Mark the destination of each piece, to make it easy for movers to place items in the correct rooms.
Tips for moving house: Packing
Pack room by room
Imagine unpacking boxes in your new place, knowing where everything is because you packed room by room. Start with the rooms you use the least, such as guest rooms or storage areas. Using your map, label each box with the room it belongs to and a brief description of its contents. This will make unpacking much easier.
Label boxes clearly
Clear labelling is essential for an organised move. Use a permanent marker to label each box with its contents and room destination. Colour-coding boxes by room and priority can also be helpful for unpacking. Additionally, mark boxes containing fragile items to ensure they are handled with care.
Pack fragile items safely
Properly packing fragile items can prevent damage during the move. Fill any empty spaces in the boxes with packing paper or soft items like towels to prevent shifting. For extra protection, consider using double-walled boxes for fragile items.
Essential items to keep accessible
Pack a separate box or bag with essential items you’ll need immediately upon arrival at your new home. This might include toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, and basic kitchen supplies. Having these essentials easily accessible will make your first night in your new home more comfortable.
Managing moving day
Confirm details with the moving company
Pre-move communication with your moving company is important, as it keeps everyone informed on the situation. Confirm your moving date, time and new address with your removalists a week or two before your move to allow buffer time for addressing any last-minute changes or unexpected situations.
For complex moves, contact them two to three weeks beforehand if you have bulky items, such as pianos, if you’re moving out of a high-rise building, or if you need storage.
Moving yourself?
If you’re doing the heavy lifting, you’ll need the right transportation to avoid unnecessary trips. Rent a suitable vehicle well in advance and check that you have all the equipment you need, such as dollies and moving blankets.
Preparing your old house
Before you leave your old place, do a final walkthrough to ensure that you have secured all the doors and windows, removed all of your possessions, and left the key with the new owner, landlord, or property manager.
Preparing your new house
On moving day, ensure your old and new homes are ready for the movers. Protect floors and doorways from damage by using covers or mats.
Tips for moving house: Utilities and bills
Transferring utilities to your new home
Arrange to transfer your utilities, such as electricity, gas, and water, to your new home. Contact all your utility providers a few weeks before your move to schedule the transfer. Ensure that essential services at your new home are activated by the time you arrive.
Final metre readings and payments
Take final metre readings for your utilities and inform your providers. This will ensure you’re only billed for the services you used. Pay any outstanding bills to avoid any future complications.
Tips for moving house: Update your contact details
Update your address with key institutions
Notify key institutions of your address change. This includes your bank, employer, home and contents insurance, and any subscription services. Updating your address promptly will ensure you continue to receive important correspondence.
Plan ahead
Make a note to inform other organisations of your correct address at a later date. Online shopping, doctors and the electoral office are often not urgent, however, can easily be missed once the move is over.
Notify family and friends
Don’t forget to inform your friends and family of your new address. Send out change of address cards or use digital means to notify them. Keeping everyone informed will help you stay connected after your move.
Redirect your mail
So you don’t miss any important mail during the transition, get mail redirected to your new address. Australia Post offers a change of address notification service, along with a mail redirection service.
Tips for moving house: Settling into your new home
Unpacking tips for efficiency
When you arrive at your new home, start unpacking essential items. Then, unpack room by room, prioritising high-traffic areas like the kitchen and bedrooms. Finally, it’s time to unpack your personal belongings, photos, artwork and interior decor. This approach will help you settle in quickly and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Make your new house feel like home
Personalise your new home by arranging furniture, hanging pictures, and adding personal touches. Creating a familiar and comfortable environment will help you feel at home faster and ease the transition.
Security and safety
Once you’re in your new home, prioritise security and safety. Change the locks, test smoke detectors, and familiarise yourself with the layout of your home in case of an emergency.
Get to know your neighbourhood
Take some time to explore your new neighbourhood. Introduce yourself to your neighbours, locate nearby amenities such as supermarkets and pharmacies, and learn the best routes for your daily commute.
Ready to make your move?
Whether selling your property or stepping into your new dream home, the journey requires meticulous planning and a strategic approach. Our tips for moving house are designed to make your transition as smooth and stress-free as possible.
At HKY Real Estate, we understand that moving is more than just a physical process – it’s a significant life event. Our experienced team of real estate agents and property managers are here to guide you through every step, from listing your old home to handing over the keys to your new one.
Take the next step with HKY Real Estate
Ready to sell your current home, or looking to buy in the vibrant Perth market? HKY Real Estate is your trusted local agency committed to helping you achieve your real estate goals. With a team of highly qualified professionals, we ensure that every part of your selling, buying, or moving process is handled with care and expertise.
Contact us today to discover how we can make your real estate experience exciting and utterly seamless. Let’s make your next move together!
Have more questions?
