The Essential Pre-Move Checklist From Local Removalists

Moving house has a way of creeping up faster than expected. One day you’re casually sorting through cupboards, and the next you’re surrounded by half-packed boxes, last-minute errands and the feeling that you must have forgotten something important. While moving is a big job, it becomes far more manageable when approached with a clear plan. With a structured removalists moving checklist created by experienced professionals, you can stay organised and avoid many of the common frustrations that arise during move-out preparation.

Having helped countless households relocate, professional removalists know the small steps that make the biggest difference. From early bookings to cleverly planned packing systems, preparation is the key to a smooth and stress-free moving day. The essential checklist below has been designed to guide you through each stage with practical advice, insider tips and easy-to-follow steps so you can feel confident every step of the way.

A successful move begins long before the first box is loaded onto the truck. Setting up a realistic timeline keeps everything on track and prevents overwhelming rushes in the final week.

A well-planned timeline should include:

• Confirming your move date and giving notice if required
• Booking removalists early, especially during busy seasons
• Scheduling cleaners, carpet steamers or bond cleaning if needed
• Organising utility disconnections and reconnections
• Arranging childcare or pet care for moving day

These early steps form the foundation of your move-out preparation, helping you avoid delays and unnecessary stress.

Declutter Before You Pack

One of the most valuable pieces of advice removalists offer is to avoid packing items you no longer need. Decluttering not only saves time and reduces packing effort but can significantly cut your moving costs by freeing up space in the truck.

Decluttering is easier when broken into sections:

• Start with storage areas like garages, cupboards and sheds
• Sort items into “keep”, “donate”, “sell” and “discard” piles
• Dispose of hazardous materials responsibly
• Recycle or donate gently used items to minimise waste

The fewer belongings you move, the easier packing becomes — and the more streamlined your moving day will be.

Create a Room-By-Room Packing Plan

Rather than packing wherever you happen to be standing, a structured room-by-room approach helps maintain order and reduces the risk of mixing unrelated items into the same boxes.

Professional removalists recommend:

• Starting with areas you use least, such as guest rooms or storage spaces
• Clearly labelling boxes on multiple sides with their destination rooms
• Using colour-coded stickers to simplify unloading
• Packing heavier items at the bottom with lighter items on top
• Keeping everyday essentials accessible at all times



A detailed packing checklist helps prevent forgotten drawers, misplaced items and the frustration of searching for essentials once you arrive at your new home.

Use the Right Packing Materials

Quality packing materials play a crucial role in protecting your belongings during transport. Professional removalists rely on sturdy supplies because they reduce the risk of damage and make boxes easier to stack securely.

Your packing materials should include:

• Strong moving boxes in various sizes
• Heavy-duty tape and dispensers
• Bubble wrap or cushioning material
• Butchers paper (avoid newspaper as ink can transfer)
• Mattress and furniture covers
• Plastic tubs for fragile or valuable items

Investing in proper packing supplies helps ensure your belongings arrive in the same condition they left in.

Protect Fragile and High-Value Items

Breakables and delicate possessions need extra attention. Experienced movers know that proper wrapping, secure boxes and careful placement within the truck prevent most damage.

Tips for handling fragile items include:

• Wrapping each item individually
• Filling empty spaces inside boxes to prevent movement
• Labelling boxes as “FRAGILE” and “THIS SIDE UP”
• Packing fragile boxes last so they’re not crushed
• Keeping jewellery, documents and valuables with you



These small steps reduce the risk of accidents and give you peace of mind.

Prepare Large Appliances and Furniture

Moving large household items requires planning. Appliances, large cabinets and bulky furniture often need disassembly or specific preparation to ensure they’re safe to transport.

Professional removalists often advise:

• Emptying and defrosting fridges and freezers
• Disconnecting washing machines and securing hoses
• Removing shelves from fridges to avoid breakage
• Disassembling beds, desks and modular furniture
• Protecting furniture with blankets or padded wraps

Preparing these items ahead of time speeds up loading and reduces the risk of damage.

Plan for Moving-Day Logistics

Moving day runs best when everyone understands the plan. Clear communication and a bit of preparation can make the removalists’ job easier and help everything stay on schedule.

Helpful steps include:

• Reserving parking for the moving truck if needed
• Keeping pathways clear for safe carrying
• Designating one person as the main point of contact
• Keeping keys, documents and essentials accessible
• Doing a final walkthrough before leaving

The smoother the logistics, the faster the move — and the more efficient your removalists can be.

It’s easy to forget that moving affects more than just the physical items inside your home. Important services, subscriptions and official documents also need updating.

Remember to notify:

• Your employer and any relevant organisations
• Banks and financial institutions
• Schools or childcare providers
• Insurance providers
• Medical and dental practices
• Online subscriptions and delivery services

Updating your details early helps avoid missed bills, lost mail or service interruptions.

When you arrive at your new home, the last thing you want is to dig through multiple boxes searching for basics. A dedicated essentials box keeps everything you need within easy reach.

Common essentials include:

• Toiletries and overnight items
• Fresh clothes
• Important documents and keys
• Phone chargers and power boards
• Basic cleaning supplies
• Snacks and simple kitchen items
• Bedding and towels

This simple step can make your first night far more comfortable.

Here is an easy, printable version of the essential removalists moving checklist:

• Confirm move date
• Book removalists
• Begin decluttering
• Arrange storage if needed

• Begin room-by-room packing
• Label boxes clearly
• Sort fragile items early
• Arrange utility disconnections and reconnections
• Book cleaners or bond cleaning if required

• Prepare appliances
• Disassemble furniture
• Finalise change-of-address notifications
• Organise childcare or pet arrangements
• Confirm truck access and parking

• Pack and carry your essentials box
• Keep important documents with you
• Supervise loading areas
• Lock up securely and do a final walkthrough

This checklist can be saved, printed or kept on your phone so you can tick off tasks as you go.

Here at Easy Choice Removals and General Freight, we know how quickly moving day can become overwhelming without the right preparation. Our team has seen firsthand how a structured, well-planned checklist can reduce stress, save time and protect belongings during the move. Visit our website to learn more or to arrange a free quote with our friendly team.