Four to six weeks before
- Get quotes from removalists and book your date. Month ends and weekends fill up first.
- Measure large furniture and check it will fit through doors and hallways at the new place.
- Start decluttering. Sell, donate or book a rubbish removal for what you won’t take.
- If you’re renting, check your lease for notice periods and end-of-lease cleaning requirements.
Two to three weeks before
- Start packing rooms you use least: spare rooms, books, seasonal clothes and the shed.
- Arrange electricity, gas and internet connection at the new address, and disconnection at the old one.
- Organise mail redirection with Australia Post.
- If you live in an apartment, book the lift and loading area with building management for both properties.
The week before
- Pack everything except essentials, and label each box with its destination room.
- Confirm the time, both addresses and access details with your removalist.
- Defrost and dry the fridge and freezer if they’re being moved.
- Pack an essentials box: chargers, medication, toiletries, kettle, toilet paper, basic tools, bedding for the first night.
Moving day
- Keep a clear path from the front door to the truck, and save a parking spot if you can.
- Walk through the home with the crew to point out fragile items and anything that isn’t coming.
- Keep valuables, documents and keys with you, not in the truck.
- Do a final check of cupboards, the garage and the shed before the truck leaves.
After the move
- Update your address with Service SA for your driver’s licence and vehicle registration.
- Update your enrolment with the Australian Electoral Commission.
- Update your address with your bank, employer, insurer, Medicare and the ATO.
- Check that everything arrived and is in the right rooms before the crew leaves.
Want to know what your move might cost? Try our moving cost calculator.