Checklists, Timelines, and Reminders

You've found a new place and have a moving date locked in. Now's the time to get organised!
Here's a handy reminder of things to do.

4 Weeks before the Move

Check out homeatyellow.com.au for quick access to tradespeople or services, as well as tips and tricks on decorating
Get removalist quotes and organise removalist insurance
Organise gas and electricity connections
Need to hire furniture?
Settle any outstanding bills
Create an inventory of items you want to move, store or giveaway
Moving to a new city? Where's the local supermarket, hospital, and petrol station? Check local schools and child care facilities in the new area. Arrange the transfer of your children's school records to the new school. Use Sensis WhereIs to help you navigate your way around.
Back up your PC hard drive and ensure your computer gear is packed securely for travel
Pick up your family's dental, vet and medical records
Formally notify your landlord of the date you're vacating the premises
Arrange for a property inspection to recoup your bond
Organise for your premises to be cleaned before the inspection. Find a cleaner at yellowpages.com.au
Review your home and contents and car insurance

3 Weeks before the Move

Start packing your rarely used items
Consider giving your unwanted goods to charity, hold a garage sale, or place them on sale at TradingPost.com.au
Arrange rubbish removal
Disassemble any built-in fixtures and fittings ready for transport
Disassemble outdoor items, like swing sets and cubby houses. Place all bolts, brackets and screws in a labelled container for safekeeping
Disassemble any prefabricated furniture, like computer desks, for transport
If necessary, open new bank accounts, safety deposit and Post Office boxes
Make any travel arrangements for your move — plan your route, stops, and accommodation
Plan to have sufficient cash to cover the move
Confirm your moving schedule with your new real estate agent or landlord
Arrange interim accommodation if needed at GoStay.com.au
Label the boxes and luggage required for yourself and your family
Organise temporary or permanent storage if necessary
Hire a ute, truck or trailer
Service your car, lawnmower and other mechanical assets - drain the oil to avoid leakage

NOTE: The following are classed as dangerous goods and cannot be stored or transported:
Ammunition, new or partially used cans of paint, Linseed oil, bleach products, gas cylinders (unless emptied), turpentine, kerosene, petrol, cleaning fluids, aerosols of any kind, vegetable oils, and chemical sets.

2 Weeks before the Move

Return any videos, DVDs, and library books
Plan for the special needs of children or pets before, during and after the move
Hold your garage sale
Create an inventory list for each box while you're packing - attach it to the box
Arrange your Telstra home phone move and any other Telstra Services by applying online or calling on 13 22 00 (Monday-Friday 7am-6pm and Saturday 8am-6pm local time)

Final Week before the Move

Make plans for spending your last night at your old address - how will you say your last goodbyes?
Collect your spare keys and give them to the real estate agent or new tenant
Defrost and clean refrigerator
Pack your personal luggage last

Moving Day

Check all the cupboards before you leave
Take five minutes to stroll around for one final check
Remove the garage door remote from your car before you leave

There are companies who specialise in the big jobs involved with a move - such as finding a removalist, connecting phone, gas and electricity, and notifying important contacts of your change of address.