Introduction
Your Complete Home Moving Guide
Moving house can feel overwhelming, but good planning makes all the difference.
Whether you're moving from an apartment, townhouse or family home, following a clear plan helps reduce stress, saves time and makes moving day much smoother.
At J Doolan Relocation Specialists, we've helped thousands of Victorian families relocate over five generations. This guide brings together our best advice to help you prepare before, during and after your move.
Section 1
1. Start Planning Early
The earlier you begin preparing, the easier your move will be.
We recommend starting around four weeks before moving day.
This gives you plenty of time to:
• Declutter unwanted items
• Organise utilities
• Book professional removalists
• Purchase packing materials
• Notify important organisations of your new address
Section 2
2. Declutter Before You Pack
Moving is the perfect opportunity to reduce what you own.
Consider donating, selling or recycling items you no longer need.
Benefits include:
• Lower moving costs
• Less packing
• Faster loading
• More organised unpacking
Section 3
3. Use Quality Packing Materials
Using professional packing materials helps protect your belongings.
We recommend:
• Strong moving cartons
• Packing paper
• Bubble wrap
• Mattress bags
• Furniture blankets
• Quality packing tape
Avoid overfilling boxes or using supermarket cartons that may collapse during transport.
Section 4
4. Label Every Box
Clearly label:
✓ Room destination
✓ Contents
✓ Fragile items
✓ Heavy boxes
This saves significant time during unloading and unpacking.
Section 5
5. Pack an Essentials Box
Prepare one box containing everything you'll need during your first night.
Include:
• Phone chargers
• Medication
• Toiletries
• Tea and coffee
• Kettle
• Basic kitchen items
• Cleaning products
• Important documents
• Children's essentials
Section 6
6. Prepare for Moving Day
Before the removalists arrive:
Disconnect appliances
Empty refrigerators
Secure pets
Reserve parking
Protect valuable documents
Keep jewellery with you
Disassemble furniture where required
Confirm access instructions
Section 7
7. On Moving Day
Professional removalists work most efficiently when access is clear.
Ensure:
Driveways are accessible
Walkways are clear
Children and pets remain safe
Lift bookings are confirmed
Keys are available
Section 8
8. Settling Into Your New Home
Once you've arrived:
Check all delivered items
Assemble beds first
Connect appliances
Inspect for damage
Update your address
Recycle packing materials
Take your time unpacking room by room.
Helpful Resources
While planning your move, you may also find these guides helpful:
• How Much Does a Removalist Cost?
• What Size Removal Truck Do I Need?
• How Many Removalists Will I Need?
• Packing Advice
• Storage Advice
• Moving Checklists
• Volume Calculator
Why Choose J Doolan?
For over 100 years, J Doolan Relocation Specialists has been helping Melbourne families move with confidence.
Our experienced team provides:
✓ House removals
✓ Apartment relocations
✓ Office relocations
✓ Regional Victoria moves
✓ Secure storage
✓ Professional packing services
✓ Free quotes
Whether you're moving around the corner or across Victoria, we're here to help make your move as smooth as possible.
FAQ
How far in advance should I book removalists?
We recommend booking 2–4 weeks before your preferred moving date. Peak periods such as weekends and the end of the month often book out earlier.
When should I start packing?
Start packing non-essential items around 2–3 weeks before your move, leaving everyday essentials until the final few days.
Can J Doolan provide packing services?
Yes. We offer both full and partial packing services, along with quality packing materials for customers who prefer to pack themselves.
Do you move apartments and townhouses?
Absolutely. We regularly relocate customers from apartments, townhouses and family homes throughout Melbourne and Regional Victoria.
Do you provide secure storage?
Yes. We offer secure containerised storage for both short-term and long-term requirements.