Organising a move or relocation doesnt have to be stressful. We have built a moving tips checklist that will ensure the entire process from preparing to unpacking is as smooth as possible.
Packing Boxes/Bags:
- Proper removalist cartons are recommended for strength and size, these can be purchased from most self-storage outlets.
- Supermarket boxes, foam boxes as well as plastic tubs are not suitable for interstate removals as they may buckle and break.
- Striped bags are preferred as apposed to garbage bags for linen, clothing, blankets, etc., as garbage bags easily tear.
- Label all cartons with your name, relevant room and its contents, breakable and fragile items should be wrapped in bubble wrap or butchers paper and mark these boxes “fragile”.
- Distribute the weight evenly when packing all cartons, combine both heavy and light items in each carton, packing heavy items first.
- Books/heavy items should be packed into book boxes.
- All cartons should have lids, be taped closed and have labels.
- DO NOT pack aerosol cans, flammable items, tins of paint, etc.
- PLEASE KEEP BOX WEIGHT 25KG OR BELOW.
Flammable Items:
- Gas bottles must be empty.
- Empty all petrol from lawn movers, whipper snipers, motorbikes, etc.
- Paint and chemicals ARE NOT to be packed and shipped with furniture.
Dismantling of furniture/Electrical items:
- Have all swing sets, play gyms, beds, desks etc. dismantled prior to removalist arrival and put the screws and bolts into a container.
- Disconnect your washing machine, TV, etc.
- Empty and defrost fridge and freezer 24hrs prior to removal date.
Pot Plants:
- Each state has different quarantine restrictions. Be sure to check what these restrictions are for the State you are moving to.
- Pot plants should not be watered 2-3 days prior to removal.
- Please note pot plants will not be taken unless they can be carried by two men.
- Pot plants will not be taken if they have thorns e.g. roses, cacti and some fruit trees etc.
Other Helpful Tips:
- Brooms, mops and garden tools can be taped together in bundles of 5.
- Empty all robes, chest of drawers, dressing tables, etc. of all items.
- Make sure all garden tools, bicycles and any other gardening equipment is clean.
Moving Checklist:
5-6 Weeks Prior to Removal:
Make sure you have:
- Chosen your furniture removalist and booked your removal.
- Sorted through basement, loft and garage and disposed of items you no longer wish to take.
- Made proper provision for your pets.
3-4 Weeks Prior to Removal:
Make sure you have:
- Started to prepare your mailing list of people who need your change of address.
- Notified banks, savings account/s, credit card companies, hire or purchase and rental companies.
- Arrange for mail to be forwarded to new address.
- Arrange to discontinue – newspaper, telephone, gas, electricity, water meter reading, etc.
- Made sure your pets vaccinations are up to date.
1-2 Weeks Prior to Removal:
Make sure you have:
- Started to dismantle garden furniture and outside kids equipment such as swings etc.
- Made arrangements for connection of services at your new home.
- Started to pack and labelled all your boxes.
1-7 Days Prior to Removal:
Make sure you have:
- Defrosted the refrigerator/freezer.
- Separated luggage and personal items you wish to take with you and not put on the truck.
- Empty all petrol from the tanks of lawn mowers, motor bikes and gas from gas bottles.
Day of the removal:
Make sure you have:
- Dismantled all furniture items that can be dismantled and have all items boxed and ready to go.
- Make sure driveways are clear and accessible for the removal truck.
- Check delivery address and estimated time of delivery with your removalist.
- Don’t forget to inform the removalist of everything you need moved, as it is your responsibility to check before the truck leaves the property..
- After the removalist has loaded check the house thoroughly and make sure everything is loaded and locked or secured.
