Moving into a new home in Australia can be a daunting process. There are much to do, from notifying organisations, deciding to hire a furniture removalist or not, to setting up a timeline and budget, as well as packing and unpacking your things. But with proper planning, you can make everything organised and keep stress to a minimum. Here are some tips to help you with just that.
Get organised
Notify concerned parties that you’re changing address two months before your move. This includes your bank, insurance agent, utility providers, and your family doctor, among others. Make a list of who to inform, and make sure they receive the notification.
Decide to hire a mover or move yourself
This is a question that depends on various factors. You need to weigh in your time, budget, and the difficulty and complexity of the move. Do you have loads of large furniture to move that require special care? How long would it take to go back and forth to move all your stuff on your own? Assess what needs to be moved, the time you have and the distance to travel, so you can make a sound decision. For instance, if you’re moving from Adelaide to another city, it may make more sense to hire the service of a furniture removalist than do it yourself.
Create a timeline and schedule
Without a schedule, you may find it hard to track your progress. Set up a timeline once you know when and where you are moving. Preparing two months before your move is enough time to get organised. You can do everything you need in this period, from informing concerned parties about your move, cleaning out your closets, to packing and unpacking your things. When you’re planning your big move, create a schedule, and stick with it.
Set up a moving budget
How much would your move cost? Not being prepared could cost you more in the long-run. You must keep track of your finances, so you won’t go beyond your intended budget. Use a software program like Microsoft Excel to list down all the items you’re moving, and their corresponding expenses if you’re hiring a mover. Don’t forget to account small items like sheets, throw pillows, and shower curtains as they tend to add up. Moving fees, additional insurance, and extra services should also be on the list.
Know what to pack
Start with the essentials that you might want to unpack first after arriving at your new residence. This includes your change of clothes, cleaning supplies, and first-aid kit, among others. You should also keep your valuables like jewellery, cash, and important documents with you, or be shipped with a trackable shipping service. Likewise, know what you don’t need to pack. You can leave items such as paint thinners and pesticides to your neighbour.
Double-check
Check every part of your house to ensure nothing valuable is left behind. Garages, attics, and basements are easy-to-miss spots. Also, check for damages done during the move. Inform the moving company right away for any damaged or lost items.
Settle into your new home
With your things moved to your new home, you can rest easy now that the moving process is over. Whether you did the moving yourself or hired a furniture removalist, it’s a huge success for you. It’s time to throw a housewarming party and meet your neighbours.
