Most of us move house many times, but how smoothly the relocation goes depends on planning. You must figure out how to pack, choose a removal company, change your address information, cancel scheduled deliveries, disconnect utilities, and plan for insurance. The good news is that moving house doesn’t have to be overwhelming. 

Here’s a checklist to help you plan your relocation.  

Moving Checklist for A Stress-Free Move

Two Months Ahead: 

The earlier you prepare for your move, the easier it will go. Here’s what to do when you’re two months away from the big day:

• Get quotes from removalists, including how to relocate your pets, trailer, caravan, boat, or any other vehicle
• Start spring cleaning to decide what you’ll keep and what to donate, sell, or discard. Consider your options now if you’ll need short- or long-term storage
• Start using your frozen foods to ensure your freezer is empty by moving day

One Month Ahead: 

• Choose your ideal removalist and fix your moving date and time
• Apply for time off or leave to allow for at least two days for the move
• Give notice to your current landlord and prepare for a property inspection to get your deposit or bond refunded
• Inform important contacts of your new address, such as your tax office, banks, local council, doctors, vets, and schools

Two Weeks Ahead:

• Start packing your clothes and utensils, keeping what you’ll need for the next two weeks
• If you have young children or pets, organise babysitting and pet care for moving day. 
• Organise for utility disconnection at your current home and connection at your future home
• If you’re driving a long distance to your new home, get your car serviced and in good condition
• Refill any prescription medications to last at least two weeks after you move

One Week Ahead: 

• Get the keys to your new home, and book a locksmith to change the locks on moving day
• Organise a final inspection of your new home at least 48 hours before moving day
• Use the food in your fridge, freezer, and pantry, or pack these items securely to avoid spills or spoilage as you move
• Open every drawer and cupboard to ensure you don’t leave anything behind

One Day Ahead: 

• Your movers will arrive on the eve of your moving day. Be available to offer instructions while packing and clarify directions
• Pack your moving kit: chargers, drinking water, medications, a first aid kit, toiletries, snacks, etc
• Defrost your fridge and freezer; empty water from your washing machine and a clothes iron
• Keep essential items like documents, jewellery, cash, credit cards, and hard drives on your person

Moving Day: 

• Check that all utilities are all off and disconnected
• Leave a forwarding address for mail and deliveries
• Return your house keys to your landlord or property agent
• Confirm that you loaded everything onto the moving vehicle
• Verify your destination and personal contact with your movers
• Have a safe, stress-free moving trip

Planning takes the stress out of moving if you start early enough. Summer is the peak moving season, so book your movers well in advance. Keep this checklist with you and make relocation a breeze.