✅ Moving Checklist
Moving checklist — week by week
Moving well is about sequencing tasks in the right order — not scrambling through everything in the final week. Use this checklist alongside the move planner for the full context and reasoning behind each stage.
Each task links to the relevant calculator or guide where one exists. Interstate and local moves share most tasks — interstate-specific items are noted where relevant.
🔍 8–12 weeks before
Confirm the new city or suburb
Use real cost of living and salary data — not anecdote.
Compare cities →Research rent or property prices in target areas
City comparison →Check your after-tax salary at the new location
Salary calculator →Estimate the full cost of the move
Moving cost calculator →Notify your employer of your intended move date if required
Check your lease — calculate your notice period and any break fees
💰 6–8 weeks before
Decide on removalist type (local, interstate, backloading)
Removalists comparison →For interstate: compare backloading vs dedicated truck
Backloading vs removalists →Get at least 3 quotes — in writing, itemised
Check whether removals insurance is needed
The base quote provides limited liability — not full replacement cover.
Removals cover guide →Assess whether you need storage for a timing gap
Storage options →Understand all the costs — not just the removalist line
Full cost breakdown →📋 4–6 weeks before
Book your removalist — confirm in writing with a signed contract
Purchase or arrange removals/transit insurance if needed
Book a storage unit if required
Start collecting packing materials — boxes, tape, bubble wrap
Source second-hand boxes from supermarkets or social media marketplaces.
Give formal notice to your landlord or agent
Start notifying key contacts of your upcoming change of address
Employer, bank, insurance, subscriptions, professional registrations.
Book bond cleaning if required at your vacating property
If buying: confirm settlement date and coordinate with your solicitor
📦 2–4 weeks before
Begin packing non-essentials
Label every box: room + brief contents. Heavier items in smaller boxes.
Decide what you're not taking — sell, donate, or dispose
Decluttering before you pack reduces your removalist quote for interstate moves.
Arrange utility disconnections at your current address
Connections guide →Set up connections at your new address
Electricity and gas: allow 1–3 business days. NBN: up to 2 weeks.
Connections guide →Redirect your mail through Australia Post
Update your address with Medicare and myGov
Update your address with the ATO (or via myGov)
🚛 1 week before
Confirm move date, pickup time, and access with your removalist
Pack an essentials box (accessible last, unpacked first)
Include: important documents, phone charger, medications, change of clothes, toiletries, kettle, coffee/tea.
Arrange parking and lift access at both properties on move day
Return library books, borrowed items, and neighbours' tools
Clean out the fridge and pantry — plan meals around what's left
Confirm your bond cleaner's booking and timing
Take photos of all meters at both properties
🏠 Move day
Be present or arrange a representative at both properties
Document the condition of your old property before handing over keys
Photos and video — timestamped — protect your bond.
Walk through the new property on arrival — document existing damage
Report anything significant to the agent in writing on the day.
Confirm all utilities are active at the new property
Sign the removalist completion form — check for damage before signing
✅ First 2 weeks in the new place
Confirm NBN or internet is live — follow up with provider if not
Connections guide →Update your driver's licence and vehicle registration with new address
Required in most states within 3 months of moving — some states charge a fee.
Update your bank and credit card with your new address
Update private health insurance, car insurance, and home contents
Your premium may change if your risk profile changes.
Set up your new budget — living costs may have changed
Budget planner →Enrol children in new school or childcare if applicable
Register with a new GP and transfer medical records if needed
Need more context?
Plan your move
The full step-by-step guide with reasoning behind each stage.
Key decisions the checklist links to
Next steps
Turn the guide into a practical interstate plan
Interstate moves involve a longer decision chain than local. Get a cost estimate and a service comparison before committing to a removalist.
Plan utility connections
Line up electricity, gas, internet, and admin setup before the new address goes live.
Estimate the move quote
Model removalist cost, route distance, and practical extras before you book.
Compare removalist types
Local, interstate, backloading, owner-operators — what each costs and suits.
Check removals cover
See whether limited removalist liability is enough or whether transit cover matters.