There are a number of things you can do to prepare for moving day that make your life easier and ensure that as few things go wrong as possible. The key, of course, is to start planning the move at least eight weeks in advance, setting out the various steps you need to take leading up to moving day. To get you started, we’ve come up with 7 tips to add to your list of things to do.
1. Make a list
This might seem to be an obvious first step, but it’s also the most important starting point. You might want to designate a ‘moving’ notebook, or even a diary, keeping it specifically for your checklist, important phone numbers and dates, so everything is in one place.
2. Book your removalists
It’s really important that you book your removalists as soon as you know the date of moving day, as particular times of year can be extremely busy. Book early to avoid missing out on your preferred removalists and, a week before moving day, call to confirm the booking, ensuring that all the details are correct and up-to-date. This way you’ll avoid that worst of all possible scenarios – the removalists not turning up!
3. Start sorting & clearing
Moving house is a great time to have a clear out and pass on any unnecessary items, reducing the amount you have to pack. But don’t just throw things away; see it as a chance to make a little bit of money by having a garage sale or listing good quality items on Gumtree. Finally, donate unwanted clothes, books or kitchenware to your local op shop. This way, by the time you come to pack, you’ll feel less overwhelmed by all the stuff you have to relocate.
4. Alert your utility companies
Disconnecting the utilities from your old house and connecting them at your new home is something you can set up a number of weeks before moving day, so you don’t have to worry about unpacking in the dark. In fact, giving utility companies plenty of advance warning and making sure they have all the correct details is one way to avoid the almost inevitable stuff up.
5. Change addresses & redirect mail
These days, most statements and bills arrive via email, however you’ll still need to update your address with things like your bank, medical insurance, doctor and dentist, and, of course, the electoral roll. Once you’ve moved, make changing your address on your driver’s license and car registration a priority, as you can risk fines if these aren’t updated. As a final step, redirect your mail for a couple of months, to ensure you receive any mail that might have fallen through the cracks.
6. Collect packing tape, paper and boxes
Start collecting paper and boxes at least four weeks before your move, and begin to plan what boxes will be needed where. You might even want to start packing those things that you definitely won’t be using in the ensuing weeks. If it’s summer, for example, pack your winter clothes and bedding; or vice versa if it’s winter. And a really good tip is to write on the box exactly what’s in it and what room it’s destined for at your new home.
7. Prepare a moving day survival kit
Packing a kit for moving day means you’ll always have on hand those things you need to get you through the day. This includes any tools you might need, such as a hammer, screwdriver and pliers, your cleaning products, some first aid items, pens and paper, drinking water, and some healthy snacks to keep your energy levels up. And don’t forget to keep a phone charger close by on the day!
With branches right across Australia and over 120 years’ experience in the industry, Chess Moving is a great choice for a hassle-free local or interstate move. Get in touch with us today to book your next move on 13 14 69 or visit the website.