Moving Checklist

Your Step-by-Step Guide to a Stress-Free Move

Moving house involves more than simply packing boxes. From updating your address to organising utilities and preparing your furniture, there are many tasks that need to be completed before moving day.

This comprehensive moving checklist has been created by the experienced team at J Doolan Relocation Specialists to help you stay organised and make your move as smooth as possible.

Four to Six Weeks Before Moving

This is the ideal time to start planning your move.

✔ Book Your Removalist

Professional removalists are often booked well in advance, particularly during weekends and peak moving periods.

✔ Declutter Your Home

Sort through each room and decide what to:

• Keep

• Donate

• Sell

• Recycle

• Dispose of

Moving fewer items can save both time and money.

✔ Create a Moving Folder

Keep all important documents together, including:

• Quotes

• Contracts

• Settlement paperwork

• Utility information

• Insurance documents

✔ Arrange Storage (if required)

If there will be a delay between moving out and moving in, organise secure furniture storage well before moving day.

Three Weeks Before Moving

✔ Start Packing Non-Essential Items

Pack items you won't need before moving day, including:

• Books

• Decorations

• Seasonal clothing

• Spare linen

✔ Order Packing Supplies

Make sure you have:

• Moving cartons

• Packing paper

• Bubble wrap

• Packing tape

• Labels

• Marker pens

✔ Notify Important Organisations

Update your address with:

• Banks

• Insurance providers

• Medicare

• Electoral Roll

• Employer

• Schools

• Subscriptions

Two Weeks Before Moving

✔ Confirm Your Moving Date

Confirm:

• Removal booking

• Settlement times

• Property access

• Lift bookings (if applicable)

✔ Organise Utilities

Arrange:

• Electricity

• Gas

• Water

• Internet

• Phone

✔ Arrange Pet and Child Care

Keeping children and pets away from the moving activity can make the day safer and less stressful.

One Week Before Moving

✔ Finish Packing

Leave only essential everyday items unpacked.

✔ Clearly Label Every Box

Include:

• Room

• Contents

• Fragile (if required)

This helps the removalists place boxes in the correct rooms.

✔ Prepare Appliances

Remember to:

• Empty the refrigerator

• Defrost the freezer

• Disconnect washing machines

• Secure appliance doors

The Day Before Moving

✔ Pack an Essentials Box

Include:

• Toiletries

• Phone chargers

• Medication

• Important documents

• Snacks

• Tea and coffee

• Basic cleaning supplies

• Change of clothes

✔ Check Access

Ensure:

• Driveways are clear

• Parking is available

• Gates are unlocked

• Lift access is confirmed

✔ Charge Your Phone

You'll likely need it throughout the day.

Moving Day

✔ Be Ready Before the Crew Arrives

Complete a final walkthrough and ensure everything is packed.

✔ Keep Valuables with You

Carry:

• Passports

• Jewellery

• Cash

• Laptops

• Personal documents

✔ Meet the Crew

Show the removalists:

• Items remaining

• Fragile furniture

• Access points

• Parking arrangements

✔ Complete a Final Inspection

Before leaving:

• Check every room

• Cupboards

• Garage

• Shed

• Outdoor areas

At Your New Home

✔ Direct Furniture Placement

Tell the removalists where you'd like furniture positioned before they leave.

✔ Check Utilities

Confirm:

• Power

• Water

• Gas

• Internet

✔ Assemble Beds First

Getting beds ready early makes your first night much easier.

✔ Unpack Essentials

Focus on:

• Kitchen

• Bathroom

• Bedrooms

The rest can wait.

After the Move

✔ Update Remaining Addresses

Don't forget:

• Driver Licence

• Vehicle Registration

• Australian Taxation Office

• Superannuation

• Online shopping accounts

✔ Check Your Mail

Arrange mail redirection if needed and ensure everything is arriving at your new address.

✔ Leave a Review

If you're happy with your moving experience, consider leaving a Google review to help other families choose a trusted removalist.

Downloadable Checklist

Consider printing this checklist or saving it on your phone so you can tick off each task as your moving date approaches.

Why Choose J Doolan Relocation Specialists?

Moving house is easier when you have an experienced team by your side.

Since 1921, J Doolan Relocation Specialists has helped thousands of families move throughout Melbourne and Victoria with professional removal services, expert packing, secure storage and personalised customer care.

Whether you're moving from an apartment, townhouse or large family home, we're here to help every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I book my removalist?

As early as possible. Booking four to six weeks ahead is recommended, especially during busy periods.

When should I start packing?

Start packing non-essential items around three weeks before your move, leaving everyday essentials until the final few days.

Should I label every box?

Yes. Clearly labelled boxes make unloading faster and help ensure each carton is placed in the correct room.

What should I keep with me on moving day?

Keep important documents, medications, valuables, chargers, keys and essential personal items with you rather than loading them onto the truck.

Do I need storage during my move?

If your settlement dates don't align or you're renovating, professional furniture storage can be an excellent solution.