Moving house checklist for Australia: what to do 8 weeks before move day

8 to 6 weeks out: define the move

Start by turning the move from an idea into a brief. Confirm the pickup and delivery suburbs, likely date range, property size, access conditions, and whether you need packing, storage, or a special-item plan.

This is also the right time to compare removalists, especially for interstate relocations, office moves, school holiday dates, or end-of-month lease cycles.

• Create an inventory by room
• Photograph awkward access points and large furniture
• Shortlist movers and ask what is included in each quote
• Check lease, settlement, or building manager requirements

4 weeks out: book the dependencies

Once the mover is chosen, work backwards from move day. Book cleaners, arrange utility connections and disconnections, organise mail redirection, and confirm building bookings for lifts or loading docks.

• Electricity, gas, internet, water, and insurance updates
• Council parking permits or strata approvals if required
• Cartons, labels, packing paper, tape, and mattress protection
• Any donation, disposal, or storage runs before packing accelerates

Final week: reduce uncertainty

Send the mover a final access note and inventory update. If the quote was based on an earlier room list, tell them about new bulky items, extra boxes, or anything you removed from the job.

Pack a first-night kit separately: bedding, towels, medication, chargers, basic kitchen items, cleaning supplies, pet food, school items, and documents needed for settlement or rental handover.

Move day: check, label, and communicate

Walk the mover through fragile items, priority rooms, access quirks, and anything not going on the truck. At delivery, label rooms clearly and check high-value items before paperwork is complete.