So, you’re moving house — and this time, you’ve started planning early. The boxes are piling up in the garage, your utilities are scheduled for disconnection, and the removalists are booked. You’re on top of it… or so it seems.
But as the big day nears, the mental checklist grows longer. Did you update your address with your bank? What about packing an overnight bag? Even the best intentions can unravel fast, and that’s when overwhelm kicks in.
To help you stay in control, we’ve created a pre-move checklist covering the essential things to do when moving house. With this guide, you’ll avoid last-minute stress, save time, and breeze through your move like a pro.
Because moving house doesn’t have to be chaos — it can be a smooth, well-planned leap into your next chapter.
What are the most important things to do when moving house?
Start by creating a pre-move checklist. Key tasks include decluttering, booking home removals early, updating your address, organising utilities, and packing strategically. Planning each step in advance helps reduce stress and ensures a smoother, more efficient move.
1. Declutter and Organise Early
Before you even touch a packing box, decluttering is the best first step. This saves time, reduces moving costs, and gives you a fresh start in your new space.
- Sort items into keep, donate, sell, and discard piles
- Use local charity bins or organise a garage sale
- Recycle or dispose of old electronics and hazardous items
- Start with storage spaces like garages and wardrobes
Cutting down on clutter lightens your load and helps you avoid bringing unnecessary items into your new home. Of course, parting with that drawer full of “just in case” cables or the jeans you swore would fit again someday isn’t always easy — but your future self will thank you.
- If you need a practical strategy to kick-start the process, this move-out method from Real Simple breaks decluttering down room by room to keep things manageable.
2. Book Home Removals and Services in Advance
Securing professional help early is one of the most important things to do when moving house. Booking your home removals ahead of time guarantees your preferred date and helps you avoid inflated peak-period rates.
- Contact home removals providers 4–6 weeks before moving— ideally before you start packing
- Ask for a fixed-price quote, insurance options, and whether they provide packing boxes
- Book cleaners, pet transport, or short-term storage if needed
- Notify your employer if you’ll need time off work
Planning ahead ensures every service is lined up and ready, reducing stress and preventing any last-minute panic on moving day. Just as important is choosing a reputable, trustworthy home removalist — the right team can make or break your moving experience, so don’t leave it to chance.
3. Update Your Details and Redirect Mail Before Moving
Forgetting to update your details can cause all sorts of admin headaches post-move. Get on top of it early and avoid missing bills or important mail.
- Update address with Australia Post and redirect mail
- Notify banks, insurance providers, and Medicare
- Update your driver’s licence and electoral roll
- Let friends and family know your new contact details
This step saves you from chasing up lost mail or missed payments once you’ve settled in. With nearly one in five Australians moving house in the past year alone, according to Budget Direct’s 2023 survey, it’s clear that staying on top of your details is essential — especially when life’s already in motion.
4. Disconnect, Reconnect, and Set Up Essentials
You’d be surprised how many people forget to set up their utilities in advance. No one wants to arrive at a home with no electricity or internet!
- Schedule disconnection of gas, electricity, water, and internet
- Arrange connections at your new address before moving day
- Update your energy plan to suit your new home
- Check if any services require in-person appointments
By sorting this out ahead of time, your home will be move-in ready with all essentials running smoothly.
5. Pack Smart and Label Everything
Packing is more than just boxing up items. Done well, it can save hours of frustration and make unpacking feel like a breeze.
- Use quality packing materials and sturdy boxes
- Label boxes clearly by room and priority
- Pack an ‘essentials’ box with toiletries, clothes, and chargers
- Keep valuables and important documents in a separate, secure box — and take it with you in your car on moving day, not in the truck
An organised packing system reduces breakage, speeds up unloading, and helps you settle in faster. Some home removalists even offer flexible packing services — saving you time and helping you walk into your new home feeling calm, capable, and ready to start fresh.
6. Prepare for Moving Day Like a Pro
The night before moving house is not the time to start preparing. Getting the basics ready can turn a frantic day into a smooth operation.
- Confirm booking with your removalists
- Pack snacks, water, and a moving-day survival kit
- Defrost and clean your fridge 24 hours before moving — and place a handful of dry teabags inside to help absorb moisture and prevent mould during transit or storage
- Do a final walk-through to check for missed items — open every cupboard, drawer, and storage nook, as that’s where forgotten belongings tend to hide.
A stress-free moving day starts with preparation and ends with peace of mind in your new home.
- Not sure how to tackle the freezer? This guide from CHOICE walks you through how to defrost it properly and safely before moving day.
Wrapping Up: Mastering the Key Things to Do Before Moving House
When it comes to the things to do when moving house, preparation is everything. From decluttering to packing to updating your address, a well-planned move puts you in control and makes the whole experience easier.
Check off the items above one step at a time and you’ll glide into your new home without the usual chaos. For a smoother move, consider working with trusted removalists like Surfside Removals — your local experts on the Central Coast.
Sources: Choice ; Real Simple ; Budget Direct