Your Moving Home Checklist
A calm, practical guide to getting you from settlement to settled—designed specifically for owner-occupiers in Australia.
Moving Is a Milestone Worth Celebrating
Moving home is an exciting milestone—but it's also one of life's busier transitions. This checklist is designed to help you stay organised without overthinking it.
You don't need to do everything at once—just the right things, at the right time. Follow this guide to ensure nothing slips through the cracks during your move.
4–6 Weeks Before Moving
Confirm the Fundamentals
Settlement & Possession Dates
Confirm your settlement and possession dates with your conveyancer. Understanding these timelines prevents confusion and ensures smooth handover arrangements.
Handover Details
Clarify key handover logistics including when and where you'll receive keys, property access times, and any special conditions around possession or vacating.
Special Conditions
Review your contract for any special conditions relating to access, chattels included, or vendor requirements before possession day arrives.
Plan the Move & Declutter with Intention
Organise Your Removalist
  • Book removalists early—availability fills quickly during peak periods
  • Consider access at both properties, including stairs, driveways and parking restrictions
  • Confirm furniture and large items will fit through doorways and into rooms at your new home
  • Request quotes from multiple providers for comparison
Declutter Room by Room
  • Start with storage areas, garages and spare rooms first
  • Decide what's coming with you—and what isn't serving you anymore
  • Arrange donations to local charities or council collection services
  • Book tip runs for items that can't be rehomed
2–3 Weeks Before Moving
Utilities & Services
Arrange connection of electricity, gas and internet at your new home. Schedule disconnection or final meter reads at your current address, and verify hot water system requirements.
Address Updates
Prioritise updating your driver's licence, vehicle registration, banks, insurers, superannuation, employers, schools and childcare providers. Set up Australia Post mail redirection.
Begin Packing
Start packing non-essential items room by room. Label boxes clearly with contents and destination room. Keep important documents together in one secure, accessible place.
1 Week Before Moving
Final Preparations
01
Confirm Timings
Reconfirm moving day timings with your removalist, including arrival times at both properties and any access requirements or restrictions to be aware of.
02
Open First Box
Pack an essentials box with kettle, mugs, toiletries, phone chargers, basic tools, medications and anything you'll need immediately upon arrival at your new home.
03
Document Meters
Photograph utility meters at both your current and new properties. These photos provide clear records for final and opening readings with service providers.
04
Organise Care
Arrange care for pets and children on moving day if required. Having them looked after reduces stress and allows you to focus on coordinating the move.
Home Readiness in the Final Days
Kitchen & Appliances
Empty and clean the fridge and freezer thoroughly. Use up frozen and perishable food in the days leading up to the move to minimise waste.
Dispose of flammable or hazardous items safely—removalists cannot transport these, and they shouldn't be left behind for the new owners.
Moving Day Checklist for Home Buyers
Before You Leave
Take a final walk-through of every room, garage and storage area. Turn off taps, lights and appliances. Secure all windows and doors. Keep valuables and important documents with you—never in the removal truck.
Arrival at Your New Home
Confirm room destinations with your removalist before unloading begins. Check that utilities are working as expected. Note any immediate issues so they can be addressed promptly with the appropriate parties.
First Week in Your New Home
Settle In Properly
Test Everything
Check that appliances, hot water, power points and internet are all working correctly. Address any issues early whilst they're fresh in everyone's mind.
Security & Updates
Change locks if you choose to for peace of mind. Update delivery apps and saved addresses to ensure mail and parcels arrive at your new home.
Meet Your Neighbours
Introduce yourself to neighbours when the opportunity naturally arises. Building good relationships early creates a welcoming community atmosphere.

Take your time: Unpack gradually—there's no rush. Allow the home to reveal how it wants to be lived in. Make note of any short-term improvements or adjustments you'd like to make over the coming months.
A Final Word
Buying well doesn't stop at settlement. If anything feels unclear, rushed or uncertain during your move—that's exactly when to reach out.
Moving home is a significant transition, and it's perfectly normal to have questions along the way. Trust your instincts and seek guidance when you need it.
Buyers Advocate Perth
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