12 tips for a low-stress move

Moving house can be stressful and exhausting – but it needn’t be. Here are twelve tips for a seamless transition into your new home.

A low-stress move requires time, planning and organisation, so starting early is key. With so many tasks to tick off, create a comprehensive checklist to ensure you stay on track and don’t miss anything.

Now is a great chance to donate, sell or discard things you no longer need. Start planning a garage sale or book a hard waste collection.

Secure and orderly packing takes longer than you expect, so allow more time – and boxes – than you think you need.

Create a detailed floor plan of your new home to ensure that your furniture will fit, and to show removalists or friends where everything goes.

Professional removalists, packers and cleaners can reduce the stress and physical strain of moving, and can help you avoid additional costs such as childcare or time off work.

Check if your existing contents insurance policy covers your belongings while in transit. If not, consider purchasing transit insurance, which can mitigate the cost of damage and accidents while moving. Most professional removalists offer transit insurance, giving you even greater peace of mind.

If you’ve bought or sold a property, check with your conveyancer well in advance to ensure that the settlement process is on track.

Arrange for mail redirection through Australia Post, and contact important organisations to update your address. Cancel or redirect subscriptions and deliveries.

Organise the disconnection and reconnection of energy, water and internet. This is a great time to shop around for a better deal.

Ask friends to mind kids and pets on moving day, otherwise have snacks, bedding, favourite toys and screens on hand.

Create an ‘Essentials’ kit with important items, and pack a bag for each family member with a change of clothes, sleepwear and toiletries.

Introduce yourself to your neighbours, join local clubs and online groups to meet new friends, and start hunting for your new favourite cafe and restaurant.