Even if you’ve moved many times and think you’ve got it down pat, there are bound to be a few things you neglect to organise in the madness and mayhem that tends to precede a move. This is generally exacerbated for first time movers. 

There’s no doubt that moving is stressful. But it’s also an exciting time signalling a major change in your life, whether you’re upsizing, downsizing or relocating to a new area.

To maximise the excitement and minimise the stress, avoid the following common mistakes people make when moving.

1. Not doing a cull of unwanted items before packing

Without sorting through your stuff before packing it in boxes, you will either have more more work to do in the new home or you’ll put them away and keep accumulating unwanted things.

2. Forgetting to label boxes 

This isn’t just about labelling the box with the name of the room it is to go in (helpful for removalists and you) but being more specific, so you know which boxes to empty first and which can wait.

3. Neglecting to redirect mail

If you don’t have time to change your address on everything before moving, simply establish a mail redirect with Australia Post so you have some time up your sleeve.

4. Not letting utility providers know about the move date

If you don’t advise your gas and/or electricity service provider/s of your move date you may find you aren’t connected at the new place. Advising them in advance also lets them do a final meter read so you’re only charged for what you use and not for what the new owner uses.

5. Neglecting the fur babies

Pets are important members of the family too so make sure you think carefully about how you will transport them to your new home safely. Unless this is planned for, they may get under the feet of your removalists or worse, run away while doors are propped open during the move or out of fear.

6. Forgetting to think about the first meal in the new house

The last thing you will feel like after a day of moving is cooking. Ensure you plan what you’re going to do for your first meal in your new home.

7. Forgetting to pack a separate box of essentials

After a long tiring day of moving, the last thing you will want to do when you finsih for the day is hunt around for the items you need to settle in for the night – things like bedding, toiletries, sleepwear, chargers, a tool box with allen keys in case you need to put the bed together, a change of clothes, first aid kit, medications and any kitchen basics you’ll need for your first night in your new home.