A relocation is a major milestone and a considerable undertaking. It doesn’t matter if you’re moving up the street or to another state. As there is so much that needs to be considered, the sooner you can start planning the better.
Preparing a moving out check-list is a great idea. You can outline everything that needs to be done. Set to-do-by milestones to leverage the time leading up to the moving out date.
One mistake people often make, is not giving themselves enough time to prepare. They have a habit of delaying the biggest tasks until it becomes a dreaded chore. In the end, they create undue stress for themselves.
Continue reading for a last-minute list of things to do when planning a big move.
Prioritise Your Moving Out Checklist
Having a moving out checklist helps you prioritise the tasks that will need to be done. Putting everything in writing gets you to focus on the project and starts the ball rolling. It will also prompt you to see things you may have forgotten to put on the list.
You will want to set completion dates for your tasks, to ensure you have enough time and resources to get them done. Make sure you’re checking off items as you complete them too. This gives you a sense of accomplishment and makes the finishing line appear more achievable.
Complete Your Change of Address Forms
With technology playing a big role in our lives, completing a change of address is easier. Set aside some time to jump online and update your address on all of your major accounts. This may include your phone, internet, electricity and bank account details. Keep in mind that you can still do a paper change of address at Australia Post.
Give yourself and the companies you deal with enough time to update your records. Consider putting off ordering anything that needs to be delivered within the final week of your move too.
Be sure your employer has your new address, so important documents don’t get missed or delayed in reaching you.
Get Moving Boxes and Packing Supplies
Once you have your relocation plans in place, you should start purchasing your supplies. Get boxes in various sizes so you have what you need. Purchase labels and markers to make it easy to identify items and who they belong to.
Some people try and save money on this step, collecting boxes from shopping centres and stores. Keep in mind that unless you can get strong, double walled boxes, you may end up with your belongings damaged during the move. This may cost you far more than purchasing proper moving boxes to begin with.
Create an inventory list, so you can keep track of which box contains certain items. It will also help when it’s time to unload boxes at your new residence. At a minimum, write on the box to show the contents and which room it will be going in to.
Decide What to Take and What to Discard
In the days leading up to your move, decide which items you will be taking to your new place. You’ll see that some items have outlived their usefulness and will not be making the journey with you. Don’t be afraid to throw out items that have seen better days.
Having a moving sale may help to pay for some of your moving costs. Host a garage sale or use Ebay or Gumtree to sell unwanted items.
Look Into Storage Space
You may want to look into renting storage space as a means to declutter while moving. If you chose to go this route, only take items you plan to use in your new space.
This can include out of season clothing, holiday decorations, and items you have stored in your garage. The rule is if you won’t be using it in the next six to eight weeks but will need it at some point, put it in the storage unit.
After you have been in your new place for about six months close out the storage unit. You will be surprised at how many things you placed in the unit you really don’t need at all.
Schedule Your Utility Shut-off/Switch-over Date
Things to know when moving out of one place and into a new place, are when to transfer your utilities. Don’t end up in the dark because you didn’t plan properly.
Reach out to the following providers to determine when the best time to switch service is:
- Cable/Internet
- Electricity
- Gas
- Water
Ask about overlapping services. This is where you get a few days where your service is on at both locations. The turn-off date should not exceed the day after you are scheduled to be out of your old place.
Hire a Moving Service
If you are moving more than just a few items, hiring a moving service is the best option. It may be more expensive but it is best to have an experienced team on your side. They will know how to pack and place your valuables. This minimises the chance of damages and personal injury.
Plus, driving a long distance in a large truck is something most people are not trained to do.
Conduct Your Final Walk-Through
Whether you are moving out of a rental or selling your home, a walk-through is an important step. With a rental, you want to get your security deposit/bond returned. In the case of a home sale, the new owners need to check-off that everything promised has been done.
For those leaving the city, your walk-through needs to be done a few days before you need to be out. This way, if an issue arises you have time to correct it.
Plan a Spa Day or a Fun Day
Moving is hard work. After you’ve moved into your new place and gotten settled, treat yourself to a special day. Whether it is a spa day, a couple’s outing, or family time at a theme park, do something to unwind.
The final step in the moving process is getting your place set-up. Choose a day for your special outing and use it as motivation to get boxes unpacked and the house in order.
You Don’t Have to Do It Alone
Moving out from one place into another doesn’t have to be done alone. There are moving services that can help remove the stress you may be experiencing.
Do you have a big move on the horizon? Click here to get a quote.
