Moving can be hectic if you think about all the planning, packing, and endless errands you have to run before and during the big day. Whether you’re moving from one street to the next or to a totally different city, moving house requires a lot of careful preparations to ensure that everything goes smoothly.
With so much to do, it’s easy to lose track of time and get caught up in a last-minute rush. Here is an essential checklist to help you prepare for your move and avoid unpleasant surprises and hiccups.
1. Finalise all the necessary paperwork
Whether you’re moving to a new home or rental property, you’ll probably have to take care of some paperwork first. In some cases, you may have to fill out forms, sign a rental or sale contract, buy insurance, and get permits. Keep in mind that some of the documents may take time to process, so account for any expected delays in your moving schedule.
2. Get your new house ready
Make sure that the house you’re moving into is ready for occupancy. First, arrange to have it either cleaned or detailed. You can also go ahead and add a few personal touches to make it feel homey, perhaps some sprucing up, landscaping, and light renovations — if the lease or ownership contract allows it. Finally, ensure that all the domestic utilities, such as electricity, water, gas, cable, and internet, work properly.
3. Pack and get organised
It’s crucial to start organising and packing at least some of your belongings weeks before the move. Begin by sorting and storing away some of the household and personal stuff you rarely use to reduce the workload during moving day. Remember to group related or similar items, label all the boxes, and keep an inventory to make unpacking easier.
4. Update your address
Days before the move, make sure to update your address on all the relevant documents and forward your mail, subscriptions, and utility services to your new location. Cancel the local city services, including casual labour, such as gardening, cleaning, and deliveries in good time after settling any outstanding bills or claims.
5. Book a removal company
Getting a professional removal service to haul all your belongings to a new house is always a good idea. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get friends and family to help you move, but leave some of the more sensitive jobs, such as transport and handling, to the pros. Enlisting the services of a specialist removal company is the best way to ensure that all your treasured belongings arrive at their destination safely in one piece. Shop around for the best removalist service in your area and make a booking for your moving day. Book at least a week or two in advance just to be sure you can count on them when the time comes.
Checking every item on this list is a great start to a stress-free move. You might have to lengthen the checklist depending on your moving situation or other special circumstances. The important thing is to carefully plan everything out long before taking any steps. Remember, good organisation and ample preparation are the tricks to an easy move.
