Moving to a new home can be an exciting yet stressful experience. Whether you've moved before or it's your first time, the process can be overwhelming. Our ultimate guide to moving home is here to help you stay organised, ahead of the game, and stress-free during your move. 

We'll provide tips and strategies to make your move as smooth as possible. So, if you're determined to avoid pulling your hair out or having arguments with your partner, keep reading to learn more.

In this guide you’ll find:

• Planning your move
• Pick a removalist
• Pack the house
• Get your new place move-in ready
• Setting up utilities
• Moving Internet
• The ultimate moving checklist

Planning your move

Planning is key when it comes to moving; without a solid plan, you're setting yourself up for a bumpy ride. So, what exactly should you be planning for?

Develop a solid moving strategy

It's wise to start planning your move well in advance. Creating a moving strategy before the big day can significantly reduce stress, for both you and your family. Experts recommend starting to pack soon after buying your new home. 

Additionally, arranging for rubbish removal can help you dispose of unwanted items. Lastly, creating a floor plan for your new home can streamline the moving process, ensuring that movers place your furniture correctly from the get-go, saving time and effort.

Pick a removalist

Once you've outlined your strategy, it's time to select a removalist. A quick online search will reveal a range of companies, individuals, and services in your area, leaving you staring at your screen, unsure of where to start. It's important to choose carefully to ensure your furniture and belongings are in safe hands.

Contrary to popular belief, the most expensive removalist isn't always the best choice. Price doesn't always equate to quality service in the moving industry. While higher prices may mean well-dressed movers and a fancy truck, it doesn't guarantee the best service. So, what should you prioritise when selecting the right removalist for your needs?

Handling with care

When moving precious or valuable items, nothing is more critical than the care and respect shown for your belongings. You want your items to arrive at your new home intact, not in pieces. 

A good removalist will handle your items with care, expertly wrapping them in bubble wrap and securely packing them in the moving van. Each item should be treated delicately.

While accidents can happen, it's essential to choose a removalist that offers a reasonable insurance policy for any breakages or damages. A reputable removalist should be covered for unforeseen events, such as road collisions. 

Cost

It's important not to overspend on a removal service. Before committing, you should have a clear idea of the costs involved. A reputable service will provide you with a breakdown of costs, including any additional fees. 

Many services offer quotes over the phone or through their website, but keep in mind that these are estimates. The total cost of your move can be affected by various factors, such as the volume of your belongings, the size of the truck, the number of trips needed, and the distance between locations.

Check online reviews

Lastly, take the time to read online reviews when selecting a removalist. Websites like Google Reviews and Facebook provide valuable insights into the quality of service. Positive testimonials indicate a reliable service, helping you make an informed decision.

Pack the house

This is our quick list of packing tips you’ll need:

• Decide what to pack yourself and what to leave to professionals to stay organised.
• Get quality moving boxes, bubble wrap, tape, markers, and bags to avoid last-minute shopping.
• Label boxes and use a colour-coded system to indicate room destination.
• Distribute weight evenly in boxes to make them easier to lift and prevent breakage.
• Empty drawers and chests to avoid damage during the move.
• Use vacuum bags for clothes, linens, and towels to save space.
• Flat pack or dismantle furniture for easier transport.
• Store dinner plates upright and insulate sharp items.
• Pack glassware and crystals with newspaper, bubble wrap, and label as fragile.
• Pack essentials separately for the first night in your new home to avoid unpacking everything at once.

Get your new place move-in ready

As you prepare to move, it's important to ensure that your new home is ready for your arrival. This includes setting up essential services like electricity, water, gas, and Internet. In Australia, it's your responsibility to arrange these services before moving in.

Setting up utilities

If your new home is already connected to the electricity grid, you just need to choose a supplier and set up an account. However, if it's a new connection, contact your energy distributor first. Once connected, you can choose your supplier.

• Choosing a supplier. In most states, you can choose your electricity and gas suppliers, allowing you to find the best deals. However, in Tasmania, your options may be limited, and in Northern Territory and Western Australia, you can't switch suppliers. Using a comparison service like Compare Energy can help you find competitive deals. Otherwise, you'll be automatically signed up with the previous owner's supplier, which may not be the best option for you.
• Getting connected. After choosing your supplier, contact them to arrange the connection. It's best to do this in advance, as some suppliers require a minimum time frame to connect your new home. Starting early ensures a smooth transition of services.

Moving Internet

Moving your Internet service to a new address can be a crucial task when relocating. You don't want to be caught without your favourite shows after a long day of moving! Here are some simplified steps to make the process as stress-free as possible:

• Contact your Internet service provider: Let them know about your move and schedule an installation appointment at your new place. You can do this by calling them or accessing your online account.
• Check service availability: Make sure your ISP covers your new location. If not, it's time to explore other providers in your area. You can use an address lookup tool to compare and choose a new plan.
• Schedule installation: Once you've selected a plan, schedule an installation date close to your move-in day. If you're moving into a newly built home, check if the home is properly wired for the Internet.
• Bring your equipment: Don't forget to bring your modem and router with you when you move. This ensures you can set up your Internet quickly at your new place.
• Consider bundling: If you're switching plans, consider bundling your Internet with other services like cable TV or cell phone plans for potential savings.
• Cancel your old plan: Don't forget to cancel your old Internet plan to avoid paying for two services.

Remember, each move is unique, so it's essential to plan ahead and stay in touch with your provider throughout the process. We have a range of provider-specific moving guides that can help:

• Moving with Telstra
• Moving with Optus
• Moving with TPG
• Moving with iiNet
• Moving with Foxtel

The ultimate moving checklist

Lastly, the checklist. Any super organised person always has a checklist to ensure that everything is running smoothly and on time, so here is your very own Removal Checklist. 

6 weeks to go

• Secure a removal service for your move.
• Review insurance options with your chosen removal company.
• Sketch a floor plan for your new home to plan furniture placement.
• Evaluate your current furniture and arrange to sell any items you won't need in your new place (consider a garage sale or online platforms like eBay).
• Strategise your packing approach and discuss your needs with the removal company.
• Arrange for the delivery of packing materials from your removalist if you plan to pack yourself.
• Ensure you have the necessary supplies such as tape, labels, bubble wrap, and marking pens.

Going international?

• Before moving abroad, check that your passports and travel documents are current and safely stored.
• Choose a removal company experienced in international relocations. Collaborate closely with them to ensure all paperwork is completed accurately and on time.

2 weeks to go

• Check the garden, garage, shed, and under the house.
• Consider a garage sale or ask removalists about disposing of unwanted items.
• Use up frozen foods before the move if it's local.
• Dispose of flammable items properly. Have BBQ cylinders purged.
• Arrange pet care and vaccination before the move.
• Start packing this week if you do it yourself.
• Label boxes by room and keep a list of contents.
• Notify family, friends, and businesses of address change.
• Update address with essential contacts.
• Dismantle furniture if needed and store bolts and screws together.
• Have your vehicle checked if driving to the new address.
• Arrange utilities for your new home.
• Return library books, videos/DVDs, and borrowed items.
• Secure items in boats or trailers being moved.
• Get a street directory for the new city or town.

1 week to go

• Arrange mail redirection with the Post Office and cancel newspaper and other deliveries to your current home.
• Create a list of tasks for Moving Day.
• Set final reading dates for utilities such as electricity, water, phone, and gas.
• Retrieve any items out for repair or on loan.
• Dispose of unsold items from the garage sale or eBay. 

2 days to go

• Organise finances for moving day payments.
• Check car essentials if travelling a distance: oil, water, tyres, etc.
• Pack luggage and essentials for the first night. Pick up dry cleaning.
• Remove blinds or curtains if keeping them, and pack.
• Finish packing, ensuring all items are listed on your inventory. Number each box to match your inventory.

The day before

• If you've arranged professional packing, it will take place today according to your instructions. Separate items you've packed yourself and will take with you from those to be packed by the professionals. Place your personal items, such as jewellery, handbags, cameras, and documents, in a designated area like your car if you're driving.
• Defrost and clean out your fridge and freezer. Discard any open food items that may spoil within 2 days if not unpacked. Wash and dry all dishes for packing.
• Clean out your medicine cabinet and dispose of any unwanted medications properly.
• Empty heavy, breakable, or liquid-filled items from drawers.
• Prepare your washing machine according to the manufacturer's guidelines.
• Leave your forwarding address and contact number for the new occupants. If the house will be vacant, inform the police and neighbours.

The big day

• Ensure the removalists have a designated parking spot when they arrive. If you can't be there, appoint someone to represent you.
• Show the removalists around the house and explain your requirements. Highlight items you'll need immediately at your new home.
• Prepare an essential kit with toiletries, beverages, personal items, and cleaning supplies. Keep pets confined and children away from the movers.
• Collect all house keys and keep them safe.
• Securely store items you'll transport yourself in your car. If renting, keep keys in the car to return to the agent.
• Check all cupboards, cabinets, and storage areas for any overlooked items.
• Inspect sheds and garden areas.
• Before the removalists leave, do a final walk-through and check all areas.
• For interstate moves or storage, check and sign the inventory.
• Turn off the power, tighten taps, and ensure gas and electrical switches are off. Lock all doors and windows.

Settling in

• Before delivering furniture to a rental, inspect the house and document its condition in a report.
• Direct removalists to place heavy furniture where you want it, as moving it later can be difficult.
• If your belongings are from storage, interstate, or overseas, carefully check the inventory before signing off.
• Gather all keys for your new house and consider changing the locks for security.
• Confirm gas, power, and telephone connections are active.
• Turn on the hot water system.
• Ensure your pets are safe and comfortable.
• Introduce yourself to your new neighbours when appropriate.
• Finally, enjoy your new home.

Contact Compare Broadband

Are you moving to a new place and need some guidance in setting up your Internet connection? Give our experts a call - we’ll help you to narrow down the best provider and get set up.