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Moving Hints and Tips

One Month Before Your Move

  • Obtain an Estimation of Costs: Contact J. Doolan Pty. Ltd. Removalists at 03 9336 3147 or email office@jdoolan.com.au.

  • Declutter: Have a garage sale or donate unwanted items to charity.

  • Order Packing Supplies: Contact J. Doolan Pty. Ltd. to arrange delivery of boxes, Porta-Robes, tape, and paper (as part of your estimation).

  • Create an Inventory: List your possessions for insurance and logistical purposes.

  • Pack Non-Essential Items: Begin packing items you don’t use daily.

Two Weeks Before Your Move

  • Notify of Address Change: Inform relevant parties of your new address.

  • Redirect Your Mail: Use Australia Post’s mail redirection service.

  • Continue Packing: Label boxes to indicate contents.

  • Books: Avoid packing books in large boxes—they’ll be too heavy.

One Week Before Your Move

  • Reorganize Utilities: Notify your internet and telecom providers.

  • Arrange Utility Final Readings: Schedule the final readings for electricity and gas accounts and arrange connection at your new address.

  • Prepare Plants: Stop watering plants (they’ll be lighter for the move).

  • Use Existing Food: Finish remaining groceries to reduce waste.

The Night Before Your Move

  • Essentials Box: Prepare a box with essentials like medications, refreshments, cutlery, plates, tissues, toilet paper, towels, cleaning products, a screwdriver, tape, Stanley knife, and basic toiletries.

  • Rest Up: Try to get a good night’s sleep.

On the Day of Your Move

  • Comfortable Footwear: Wear supportive, comfortable shoes.

  • Fridge and Freezer: Empty your fridge and freezer (transport perishables in an Esky).

  • Leave Manuals: Leave relevant appliance and household system manuals for the new occupants.

  • Stay Positive: Keep smiling as you head to your new home!

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Packing Tips

Packing Guide for Your Move

Crockery

  • Line the bottom of cartons with 4 inches of crushed paper.

  • Wrap each item individually and place them upright (on end).

  • Add crushed paper between each plate, bowl, and other similar items.

Glasses

  • Wrap each glass individually in butcher’s paper and tuck excess paper into the top or inside of the glass.

  • Stand glasses upright, with crushed paper separating them.

Clothes

  • We provide Portarobes on moving day, free of charge, for easy transport of clothing directly from your wardrobe.

  • Clothing in chests of drawers or dressing tables can remain in these units (just ensure any breakables are removed).

TVs & Electronics

  • We’ll place a thick furniture pad on the truck floor to reduce impact.

  • Your electronics will be wrapped in another felt pad for extra protection during transit.

Beds

  • Beds can be disassembled on moving day if notified in advance.

Fridge

  • Defrost your fridge before the move to prevent water leakage.

  • If your fridge is plumbed, please arrange for it to be disconnected prior to the move.

Let us take care of the details and ensure your belongings are moved safely and efficiently!

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New Beginnings: What No One Tells You About Moving House

Moving house is often touted as a fresh start, but anyone who’s been through it knows it’s also one of the most chaotic and stressful times you’ll face. From packing up decades of stuff to navigating moving day madness, here’s an honest glimpse into what it’s really like—and some hard-won advice to make your move smoother.

The Emotional Weight of Leaving Home

It’s not just about boxes and furniture—it’s about memories. Saying goodbye to a home where you’ve laughed, cried, and grown is tougher than I expected. Going through years of belongings felt like revisiting chapters of my life. Some things sparked joy, others made me ask, “Why did I hold onto this for so long?” But the hardest part? Leaving a place that felt like home behind.

Planning: Where Reality Hits Hard

No matter how much you plan, moving throws curveballs. Here are a few lessons I learned the hard way:

  • Time Slips Away: Packing takes way longer than a weekend marathon. Start early.

  • Box Battles: Avoid overloading boxes—your back will thank you. And don’t leave boxes half empty; it wastes space.

  • Labels Save Lives: Without clear labels, you’ll spend forever hunting for essentials.

  • Essentials Bag Is Essential: Pack a go-to bag with toiletries, chargers, snacks, and a fresh outfit. Moving day is no time to rummage through random boxes.

Moving Day: Organized Chaos

Moving day is like an elaborate dance—but sometimes the choreography goes sideways:

  • Early Bird Advantage: Start early so you’re ready when the movers are.

  • Last-Minute Surprises: That one drawer you forgot? It’ll come back to haunt you.

  • New Home Reality: The couch might not fit, boxes might go missing, and unpacking will take longer than you think.

What I Wish I Knew: Tips for Your Move

If I could do it all again, here’s what I’d do differently:

  • Hire Professionals: Movers know how to handle the chaos and save your back.

  • Declutter Like a Pro: If it hasn’t been used in a year, let it go.

  • Start Small: Pack a little every day to avoid overwhelm.

  • Communicate Clearly: Let your movers know what’s fragile or top priority.

  • Roll with the Punches: Expect hiccups and don’t be too hard on yourself.

The Bright Side

Moving is tough, but it’s also a chance to reset and create new memories. It’s about more than just changing your address—it’s about starting fresh. So, as you pack up your life, remember to breathe, laugh, and look forward to that first quiet moment in your new home.

Because, in the end, it’s all worth it.

—
Max Turnbull

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