The smart mover’s checklist: Lessons from 1,000 Aussies

Moving checklist highlights:

• Moving isn’t one job. A typical move involves 60+ tasks across pre-move prep, moving day, and post-move setup.

• Australians spend around 4 days off work managing inspections, prep, and moving day alone.

• Most people underestimate the effort. More than half of movers who DIY part of the process later wish they’d paid for extra help.

☐ Create a moving budget and timeline. Think about other services you might need for the move. Many Australians spend around $180 on packing help, as well as roughly $150 on waste removal, and $165 on gardening. 

☐ Start collecting moving supplies. Like moving boxes, tape, bubble wrap, markers, and other tools you might need. 

☐ Research and book moving providers. Distance and home size drive removal costs. Lock this in early to avoid limited availability and price spikes.

☐ Plan end-of-lease or pre-sale prep. Painting, pest control, and waste removal are common pre-move expenses that are easier to manage when scheduled in advance.

☐ Arrange storage if dates don’t align. Storage is often needed during downsizing or delayed settlements and adds an ongoing monthly cost if left unplanned.

☐ Factor in inspections and property access. Finalising a home purchase and moving involves managing time-consuming logistics, such as travel, taking time off work, and arranging property inspections.

☐ Prepare for overlap costs. Double rent, temporary accommodation, or extended utilities are common when lease or settlement dates don’t line up cleanly.

☐ Confirm what movers won’t transport. Hazardous items, perishables, and certain appliances need separate disposal or handling.

☐ Confirm arrival times and access details. Make sure movers, building managers, and keyholders are aligned to avoid idle time, rescheduling fees, or missed delivery windows.

☐ Prepare a clear path for loading and unloading. Reserve parking, clear hallways, and protect floors or lifts to keep the move efficient and avoid property damage.

☐ Set aside essentials for the day. Keep documents, chargers, medications, snacks, and valuables with you so nothing critical ends up in the truck.

☐ Supervise loading and inventory items. Being present helps prevent misplaced boxes, loading mistakes, or accidental damage.

☐ Disconnect appliances and utilities safely. Fridges, washing machines, and gas appliances often need preparation before transport to avoid leaks or faults.

☐ Do a final walkthrough of the old property. Check cupboards, storage areas, garages, and outdoor spaces before handing over keys.

☐ Keep payment and paperwork ready. Having invoices, ID, and payments sorted avoids delays at drop-off or handover.

☐ Unpack priority rooms first. Focus on bedrooms, bathrooms, and the kitchen so daily routines can resume as quickly as possible.

☐ Assemble essential furniture. Beds, desks, storage units, and seating need to be assembled before the space is usable.

☐ Check utilities and internet connections. Make sure electricity, gas, water, and internet are active and working as expected.

☐ Inspect items for damage or missing parts. Identify issues early so follow-ups with movers, insurers, or sellers are easier to resolve.

☐ Mount and hang key items. TVs, shelves, mirrors, and artwork help make the space functional and feel settled.

☐ Dispose of packing materials. Break down boxes and remove excess household waste once unpacking is done to free up space.

☐ Update your address everywhere. Notify banks, employers, schools, subscriptions, and service providers to avoid disruptions.

☐ Do a final clean and reset. A post-move clean helps remove dust, packaging debris, and leftover marks from the move itself.