Moving house is exciting—new beginnings, fresh surroundings, and a space to make your own. But let’s face it, it’s also stressful, time-consuming, and full of “oh no, I forgot that!” moments. That’s where this house moving checklist (2025 edition) comes in.
Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, or moving across states in Australia, this ultimate checklist for moving home will guide you step-by-step. From 8 weeks out to moving day and beyond, we’ve got every detail covered.
8 Weeks Before Moving – The Planning Phase
Start Your House Move List
- Create a moving house to-do list in a notebook, use an app, or download a printable moving house checklist for Australia.
- Decide on your moving date.
- Check your lease notice period or sale settlement dates.
- Create a moving folder (digital or physical) to track quotes, receipts, and paperwork.
Research and Book a Removalist
- Compare quotes from at least 3 professional removalists.
- Ask about packing services, insurance, storage, and hidden charges.
- If moving interstate, confirm timelines and delivery dates.
6 Weeks Before Moving – Declutter and Sort
Declutter Your Home
- Go room by room. Separate into keep, donate, sell, and discard.
- Hold a garage sale or list items on Facebook Marketplace or Gumtree.
Start Using Pantry and Freezer Items
- Begin eating food that won’t travel well.
- Avoid bulk grocery shopping.
Update or Collect Important Documents
- Birth certificates, passports, school reports, medical and dental records.
- Ensure you have scanned copies saved online.
4 Weeks Before Moving – Notify and Organise
Notify Change of Address
- Redirect your mail via Australia Post’s moving house checklist.
- Update your address for:
- Banks and credit cards
- Insurance (home, car, health)
- Subscriptions and memberships
- Government services (ATO, Centrelink, Medicare)
- Schools and universities
Organise Utilities
- Book disconnection at the old address and reconnection at the new one:
- Electricity
- Gas
- Water
- Internet and phone
- Pay TV
Hire or Gather Packing Supplies
- Boxes of different sizes
- Packing paper, bubble wrap
- Packing tape and scissors
- Labels or permanent markers
2 Weeks Before Moving – Pack and Finalise
Begin Packing Non-Essentials
- Start with items you don’t use daily: books, seasonal clothes, décor.
- Label boxes clearly by room and content.
- Create a priority “unpack first” box.
Organise Care for Pets and Kids
- Arrange babysitting or pet-sitting for moving day.
- Prepare pet travel crates and update pet microchip details.
Service Your Car (Especially for Long-Distance Moves)
Confirm Moving Day Details
- Confirm booking with removalist and cleaners.
- Arrange time off work if needed.
1 Week Before Moving – Final Prep
Pack Daily Use Items
- Leave out essentials like toiletries, chargers, and minimal clothing.
- Pack a “first night” box with:
- Towels and bedding
- Snacks, kettle, mugs, tea/coffee
- Toilet paper and cleaning supplies
Defrost the Freezer
- Unplug and clean your fridge and freezer 48 hours before moving.
Clean the House or Book Exit Cleaners
- Especially important if you’re renting—don’t risk your bond.
Dispose of Hazardous Materials
- Properly get rid of items like paint, gas bottles, and chemicals that removalists won’t carry.
Create a Detailed Inventory of Your Belongings
Now is the time to document your items clearly. Here’s how:
- Photograph high-value items (TV, electronics, artwork, antiques) from multiple angles.
- Make a list of the box contents for each room
- Label boxes with priority levels (e.g., “Open First,” “Fragile”)
If you’re using a professional mover, cross-check your personal list with their official inventory sheet. This reduces the risk of loss or confusion and simplifies any insurance claims if needed.
Moving Day – The Big Move
Early Morning Checklist
- Pack remaining essentials (toothbrush, kettle, phone charger).
- Turn off all appliances and switches.
- Take final meter readings (gas, electricity, water).
- Lock all doors and windows.
Coordinate with the Movers
- Walk them through the house.
- Highlight fragile or priority boxes.
- Provide a clear path for moving items.
Keep Essentials With You
- Personal ID and documents
- Medications and valuables
- Laptop, phone, and charger
Conduct a Final Walkthrough
- Look in all cupboards, behind doors, and garages.
- Ensure nothing is left behind.
After the Move – Settling In
Unpack Essentials First
- Focus on the kitchen, bathroom, and bedrooms.
- Use your “unpack first” boxes for a smooth start.
Reconnect Utilities and Internet
- If not already done, contact providers for any setup issues.
Re-register Your Address
- Update your electoral roll, driver’s license, and any state registrations. If you’re in Victoria, follow the moving house checklist Victoria for specific state-based tasks.
Check Mail Redirection Is Working
Meet the Neighbours
- A simple hello goes a long way in starting off on the right foot.
Do a Safety Check
- Test smoke alarms
- Check locks and alarms
- Identify emergency exits
Expert Strategies to Stay One Step Ahead on Moving Day
Even with a solid checklist in place, moving day can throw curveballs. That’s why having smart habits and practical tactics up your sleeve is just as important as packing boxes.
Here are some expert strategies to make your move smoother and smarter:
1. Photograph Setup-Heavy Electronics
Before disconnecting your TV, modem, or gaming setup, take clear photos of the wiring configurations. These visuals will act as a reference when reconnecting devices at your new place—saving you time and frustration.
2. Label Boxes Thoughtfully
It’s common advice to label boxes—but where and how you label matters. Write on the sides of the boxes, not the top, so you can identify contents even when they’re stacked. Include room names and a brief list of contents (e.g., “Kitchen – Pans, Utensils”) to make unpacking systematic.
3. Keep a Handy Toolkit Accessible
The first thing you might need upon arrival isn’t your toiletries—it’s a toolkit. Pack a small bag with essentials like a screwdriver, Allen keys, a measuring tape, masking tape, and a torch. Whether it’s tightening screws or adjusting furniture, this toolkit becomes your go-to during setup.
4. Document the Condition of Your Old Home
Before handing over the keys, take timestamped photos of every room, wall, appliance, and fixture. This protects you in case of disputes with landlords, buyers, or property managers over cleanliness, damage, or bond refunds.
5. Pack a ‘First 24-Hour’ Survival Box
Include bedding, towels, basic cooking utensils, a few snacks, pet food, chargers, and toiletries. After a long moving day, digging through sealed boxes is the last thing you’ll want to do.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a first-time mover or a seasoned pro, this moving home checklist Australia 2025 edition covers it all. From prepping two months in advance to settling into your new home, having a structured house moving checklist makes all the difference.
So don’t just wing it—download your printable moving house checklist Australia, stick it on the fridge, and tick each task as you go. Your future self will thank you.