Moving house checklist

8 weeks before

• Set a moving date and book removalists or a van
• Get two or three quotes and check the removalist's insurance
• Start decluttering: sell, donate or recycle what you won't take
• Give notice to your landlord, or line up the sale and settlement steps

4 weeks before

• Order boxes, tape and packing paper
• Book time off work for moving day
• Arrange electricity, gas, internet and NBN at the new address
• Set up mail redirection with Australia Post
• Start packing rooms you rarely use

2 weeks before

• Update your address with your bank, super fund, insurers, Medicare, the ATO and your employer
• Update the electoral roll
• Update your driver licence and vehicle registration with your state road authority
• Tell schools, doctors, vets and subscription services
• Plan an 'open first' box for moving day

Moving week

• Use up perishable food and defrost the freezer
• Pack an essentials bag for each person: clothes, medicines, chargers, documents
• Confirm times with the removalists and the new landlord or agent
• Photograph the condition of the property and the meter readings
• Arrange pet and child care for moving day

Moving day

• Check every room, cupboard and the shed before you leave
• Hand over keys and note the time
• Keep valuables and important documents with you

After you arrive

• Check power, water and internet are connected
• Unpack the kitchen, bedrooms and bathroom first
• Update your address anywhere you missed, such as online shopping accounts
• Return borrowed items and recycle the boxes

Requirements differ between providers and states, so check with each one.