If you’re moving interstate, the sheer volume of things you need to think about can be overwhelming. By breaking it down into small, manageable tasks to complete in the weeks leading up to your move, you can minimise the chaos and make it as seamless as possible.
Moving interstate is an exciting new adventure. Use this handy checklist to help make the transition as smooth as possible.
Two Months Before Moving Day: Plan + Book Services
Create a moving budget and think about the services you’ll need for the move.
- Make a note of all important dates – when you must vacate your current home and when you can move into your new home. If you and your belongings are due to arrive before you get the keys to your new place, you’ll need to arrange short-term accommodation and storage.
- If you have family pets, you’ll need to decide how they’ll travel interstate. A visit to the vet can help you decide the most appropriate option for your furry friends, depending on their age, health, and temperament.
- Research and obtain quotes from at least three interstate removalist companies. Consider whether you want to pack all belongings yourself or pay for packing services.
- Do you have fragile and/or valuable items that require specialist moving services? Make enquiries about moving artwork, pianos, etc.
- If you have vehicles, boats, or a caravan to relocate, consider how you will do this. To avoid driving or towing, obtain quotes for interstate vehicle freight.
- Will you do the final clean of your old home once all your belongings have been moved out, or do you need to arrange cleaning services?
Once you’ve decided which services you need, book them immediately.
One Month Before Moving Day: Declutter + Pack Non-Essentials
The less stuff to pack and move, the better, so now is the time to go through your belongings and think about what you really need.
- Sort items into four separate piles: Keep, Donate, Sell, Bin. Be brutal!
- Measure your current furniture to confirm it will fit into your new space. If not, now is the time to let it go.
- If you have a sizeable book collection that’s collecting dust, try condensing it by half.
- Gather all the packing supplies you’ll need – boxes, bubble wrap, newspaper, a permanent marker, and packing tape.
- Get ahead of the move by packing a box or two each day. Begin with belongings that are non-essential – seasonal items like beach towels and pool accessories, and special occasion items like formal dining ware and glasses. Clearly label all boxes. Consider using colour coding by room so that the removalists know where to put boxes at the other end.
- Cleaning cupboards, etc, as you empty them can make the final clean a less overwhelming experience.
Two Weeks Before Moving Day: Organise Admin
Planning for address changes and utility connections ahead of time will save hassle and inconvenience when you arrive.
- Utilities: Investigate electricity, water, gas, internet, and any other subscriptions you may need once you move interstate. Do you need to change companies? Get in touch at least two weeks before your move to schedule all connections to be active when you arrive. Schedule your current utilities to be disconnected when you leave.
- Address: Update your address with your service providers, banking institutions, etc.
- Insurance: Set up insurance for your new home.
- Mail: Arrange mail forwarding at the post office.
- Rego and License: You’ll need to update your license and car registration in your new state, but this must be done in person, so schedule this task for soon after you arrive.
- Important Documents: Create a folder containing birth certificates, passports, insurance policies, and other paperwork you may need. You’ll avoid the chaotic rummaging through boxes at the other end!
One Week Before Moving Day: Pack + Prepare
The countdown has well and truly begun! You’re almost there.
- Call the removalists, interstate car freight and any other services you’ve arranged to double-check they have your booking listed for the correct day and time. Save relevant contact numbers in your phone in case you need them on moving day.
- Begin disassembling large furniture if it’s easier to move it in pieces.
- If you’re handling all the packing yourself, this week should be dedicated to boxing up as much as you can ahead of moving day. Don’t forget to clearly label everything.
- If you’ve outsourced the packing, chat with your removalist about what you can do to make the packers’ job easier and more efficient.
The Night Before Moving Day: Final Prep
Fingers crossed that staying organised over the last eight weeks means you’re feeling calm and can prioritise a great night’s sleep for moving day.
- Pack a box or suitcase of essentials for your first night in your new home. This should include toiletries, a change of clothes, bedding, food and dining basics, and your important documents folder. Don’t forget cherished kids’ toys!
Moving Day is Here!
There’s a big day ahead, so start with a nourishing breakfast!
- Ensure you’re available to answer any questions your removalists may have.
- Do a final check of each room to ensure nothing is left behind.
Final Thoughts
Moving interstate is a big task, but with some clever planning and organisation and the help of interstate moving professionals, you’ll be on the other side of the move and ready to turn your new house into a much-loved home.
Talk to All Vehicle Freight today about transporting your car interstate by freight.
